Mixed Spice
Clockwise starting at the upper left: Ginger, nutmeg with its mace, cloves, allspice, coriander and cinnamon.
Mixed Spice should not be confused with Allspice which despite the name is indeed a singular spice. Mixed Spice is akin to Pumpkin Spice and used often in Holiday baked goods in the UK. You can find a pre-made blend online from Amazon or web-based storefronts that specialize in British grocery items, but it is so easy to blend yourself and will be a lot less expensive.
The biggest difference between mixed slice and pumpkin pie spice is the addition of coriander plus the ratio of cinnamon is lower. Coriander has been described as “ earthy, tart, and sweet with a floral aroma.” It can be used in sweet and savory dishes making a perfect spice to add to the other warm spices that make one think of Christmas and autumn.
A note on spices….
When a spice is ground up, it releases its volatile compounds allowing us to savor the complexities of any given spice. Different spice’s volatile compounds breakdown at different rates causing flavors to dissipate. It is why some spices are better fresh, like parsley whose compounds breakdown very fast. The dried alternative is almost unrecognizable from its fresh state.
The general recommendation is to consume ground spices within 6 months for optimal flavor and freshness. I know some are chuckling thinking about the Smoked paprika they bought for some dish in 2014 that’s still taking residence in your pantry and that’s alright. Spices rarely “go bad”, they just aren’t helping your food as much as they could be.
I prefer to buy my spices in bulk, but I get whole spices as they keep a very long time. I grind enough that I will consume within the half-year. Another benefit of getting whole spices is that you can toast them in a sauté pan which completely elevated their flavor.
So if you want to up your spice game, consider getting yourself an electric spice grinder and start stocking up on whole spices. Your belly and your pocketbook will thank you.
Mixed Spice
Ingredients
Method
- Thoroughly mix all ground spices together.
- Store in a glass jar with airtight lid.