Spices the Frugal Way
One way people can save money is by preparing things at home that you use often in cooking.
Spices are among the most expensive, yet, with a bit of time, you can create your own spice blend for a fraction of the cost of premixed blends.
Below are some ideas to help you get started.
All Purpose Spice Mix1/3 cup Grated parmesan cheese1/4 cup Sesame seeds2 Tablespoon Paprika1 Tablespoon Poppy seeds1 chicken bouillon cube2 teaspoon Dried parsley1 teaspoon Onion flakes1 teaspoon Garlic powder1 teaspoon Celery seed1/2 teaspoon Salt1/2 teaspoon PepperCrush bouillon cube into fine powder, put in screw-top jar.
Add remaining ingredients and shake until well mixed.
Store in refrigerator for up to 4 months.
May be used on fish, meat, stews, casseroles, salads, vegetables.
Onion Soup Mix2 cups powdered milk3/4 cup cornstarch1/4 cup beef bouillon crystals2 Tablespoons dried onion flakes1 teaspoon dried basil leaves, crushedMix and store in an airtight container in refrigerator.
To prepare: Mix 1/3 cup dry Onion Soup Mix with 1 1/2 cups water.
Cook and stir until thickened.
Italian Dressing Mix2 teaspoons oregano1 teaspoon onion powder2 teaspoons basil2 teaspoons paprika1 1/2 teaspoons pepper2 Tablespoons garlic powder6 Tablespoons granulated sugarMix and store in an airtight container.
To make dressing: Use 3 Tablespoon mix with 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil and 1/2 cup wine vinegar.
Ranch Dressing Mix15 saltine crackers1 cup dry parsley1/2 cup dry onions2 Tablespoons thyme1/2 teaspoon garlic salt1/2 teaspoon onion salt1/2 teaspoon garlic powder1/2 teaspoon onion powderWhirl in blender until crumbs are very small.
Store in an airtight container.
It will keep for 1 year.
To use: Whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 1 cup buttermilk and 1 Tablespoon Ranch Dressing Mix.
