Spice blends are a great shortcut for the busy cook who likes interesting flavors. Find them in the spice section of your supermarket or make up your own. The spice blends are made with all dry ingredients; spice pastes use some fresh ingredients such as onions, parsley, cilantro, or garlic, which do not keep their flavors well when dried.
Store the spice pastes in the refrigerator; the dry spice blends can be refrigerated or kept on your spice shelf in airtight containers. For any spice or spice blend, the rule is the same: If it doesn’t have a nice fragrance, it won’t have a good taste. Rub a little between your fingers and sniff to see if it’s still fresh.
