The official Penzeys' Spices review thread (to be updated).
Posted by Allychristine on Mar 17, 2011 · Member since Dec 2007 · 15438 posts
Posted by Allychristine on Mar 17, 2011 · Member since Dec 2007 · 15438 posts
Double Strength Vanilla 35% alcohol adds an unbeatably rich vanilla flavor to baked goods Nicely flavoured and you use half as much. (blinknoodle) Dundicut Pepperstraditional hot pepper of Pakistan, similar in flavor and appearance to Scotch bonnet
English Prime Rib Rub great for bloody Marys and stronger vegetables
Epazote add to chili or bean soup to relieve intestinal discomfort
European Style Peppercorns Tellicherry black peppercorns and Sarawak white peppercorns Great! What else can you say about pepper, really? (JessaCita) I really like the flavor of this, but when I get a lot of the white pepper, I am not a fan. It's flavorful, but I just don't like white pepper. I think I'll try a different one. (AC) Fajita Seasoning also good on tacos This is ok. I think it has a bit too much oregano, or something. Not something I'd need to get again. (AC) Fennel ground
Fennel whole on pizza and in tomato sauces and sausage This is a good fennel. Nice flavor, seeds are a good size. (AC) Fenugreek used in curries and Indian dishes
Fines Herbes salt free blend perfect for omelets and quiche
Florida Seasoned Pepper salt free citrus pepper blend good on vegetables
Forward One of our best ever all-purpose seasonings. And, it's salt free! So good on roasted potatoes! This has a lot of great flavor (AC) Four Peppercorn Blend adds festive color and flavor to any dish where one would use fresh pepper
Fox Point Seasoning yummy blend that's great for dips
French Four Spice a salt-free seasoning
Galangal close relative of ginger, has a flavor that is similar to ginger, but more flowery and intense
Garam Masala a salt free, all-purpose blend called for in many Indian dishes This is a great Indian blend. Called for in so many Indian style recipes. (AC) Garlic Powder a staple of Italian cooking as well as Chinese, French and American cuisine Good! Definitely more potent/flavorful than the cheaper garlic powder found at most grocery stores. (JessaCita) The garlic powder I bought before seemed stronger, but it also seemed fake. This is just nice quality, pure garlic powder. It's very smooth. (AC) Garlic Salt sprinkle in pasta and on garlic bread Yummy garlic salt. Nice and smooth. (AC) Greek Seasoning makes a nice salad dressing and is perfect for gyro sauce
Green Goddess an old-fashioned, salt free, classical style salad dressing
Ground Black Pepper comes in a wide variety of grind sizes to fit every use
Ground White Pepper preferred in European and Southeast Asian cooking I actually hate white pepper, so I'm not the best judge of this. I don't know what it is, but white pepper just smells bad to me & tastes foul. I have been afraid to experiment with it because the few times I've used it, it made the dish inedible to me! Am I weird? I doubt it's just the Penzeys white pepper, but I have never tried another brand. (JessaCita) Guajillo Peppers not hot but rich, smoky and complex
Gumbo File also known as powdered sassafras, a staple for Cajun and Creole cooking
Herbes de Provence salt free blend with lavender Delicious! I love using this in vegetable stews. The combination of all the spices with the lavender is really lovely. (JessaCita) Hint of Mint Hot Chocolate Mix great mint hot chocolate or spoon into coffee for a minty cafe mocha Awesome!! I love mixing this with almond milk & topping with Dandies marshmallows. And you gotta love a milk-free hot cocoa mix! (JessaCita) Horseradish Dip spicy blend that makes a tangy vegetable and chip dip I have this, but I've yet to mix it up. I need to get some things to dip in it! (AC) Horseradish Powder
Hot Chili Powder this is the best powder for those who like their chili hot and flavorful
Hot Chocolate Mix rich, smooth flavor. Just mix 1 tablespoon per cup nondairy milk My boyfriend prefers this one because he doesn't like mint + chocolate (I know, WTF?). It's good, but I personally like the mint one much more. (JessaCita) Hot Curry Powder same great, salt free flavor as the sweet, but with more hot red pepper and ginger Delicious! This is a great curry blend, with just a bit more blend. It is slightly hot, and I enjoy it. (AC) Italian Herb Mix great in all Italian dishes Good, standard Italian seasoning. (JessaCita) Italian Sausage Seasoning great for cookouts, meatballs, and sausage patties
Italian Vinegar and Oil our most popular salad seasoning
Jalapeño Peppers hotter than cayenne pepper, but the heat leaves your mouth sooner
Jerk Chicken/Fish salt free Caribbean barbecue seasoning
Jerk Pork salt free Caribbean barbecue seasoning
Juniper Berries Great! I have only ever used these to make corned "beef" seitan, but they were delicious. (JessaCita) Kala Jeeraprized by Indian and Pakistani cooks, it is used in small amounts due to its exotic flowery flavor
Korintje Indonesia Cinnamon sweet and mellow, this is the cinnamon we remember from our childhood I've only used this a couple times for baking things, and haven't noticed a huge difference between other cinnamons. It's definitely good, though. Smells really good. (AC) Kraków Nights formerly known as Polish Sausage Seasoning
Lamb Seasoning salt free blend
Lemon Extract 61% alcohol used in baking or added to marinades I love this stuff! I always add a bit to sweet recipes (like muffins, cake, scones, etc.) that call for lemon zest. It adds a little extra lemon flavor that is delicious. (JessaCita) Lemon Grass herb used most often in Southeast Asian cooking I have a really hard time chopping fresh lemon grass, so I usually use this when fresh is called for in a recipe. It's pretty mild & tastes somewhat different from the fresh, but it gets the job done. I like having it on hand. (JessaCita) Lemon Peel I LOVE having this in my spice rack for when I don't have any citrus but want to add a bit of zest to a dish. It has a great, fresh flavor. (JessaCita) Lemon-Pepper Seasoning a great, classic blend made better with new Special Extra Bold Pepper This is nice and strong. It's good! Doesn't have added crap like some of the ones in stores. (AC) Mace the lace-like, dried covering of a nutmeg, sweet and flavorful-a spice well worth using
Maharajah Style Curry Powder a high quality, salt free curry powder that is sweet, but not hot
Mahlab the pit of a sour cherry, it is a sweet/sour, nutty addition to breads, cookies and biscuits
Marjoram used in Polish, Italian, French and Mexican cooking and is the next big herb rediscovery I don't use marjoram a ton, but I can't really tell a difference between this and others. It's good when I use it. (AC) Medium Hot Chili Powder our most popular chili powder, good rich flavor that's not too hot out of all of the chili powders I've tried from Penzey's, this is my favorite....not too hot for Andy, not too bland like the 3000 one. (erinmonster) My favorite chili powder! Bold, perfectly spicy (but not TOO hot), and delicious. (JessaCita) I think this is good, but I don't think I love it. It doesn't stand out much to me. I'll try a different one next time, but do like this. (AC) Mignonette Pepper
Mint spearmint and peppermint, both used in teas and candy making
Mulling Spices makes great cider or potpourri too Makes great mulled cider and mulled wine! (JessaCita) Mural Of Flavor a blend of over a dozen spices and herbs
Mustard Powder Oriental Canadian (hot) to make mustard use 8 parts mustard to 7 parts liquid
Mustard Powder regular Canadian to make mustard use 8 parts mustard to 7 parts liquid
Mustard Seed preferred over powder in barbecue sauces, marinades and rubs
Northwoods Seasoning rosemary-paprika based blend I really like putting this in stews and on roasted veggies in the cooler Fall & Winter months. It has a nice earthy, smoky flavor. (JessaCita) Yep, earthy and smoky. This adds a nice touch to veggies, but it's not my favorite. I don't love smoky things (AC) Northwoods Fire Seasoning a hotter, spicer version of the popular Northwoods Seasoning this is Andy's favorite spice, perhaps because his family is from the northwoods....it's spicy and woody, nice on grilled veggies. (erinmonster) This is my go-to seasoning for roasted potatoes/oven fries, and it's also great for the bulk uncheese mix (I add a bit of extra salt, since it doesn't seem quite salty enough). (vegrunski) This is smokier than the regular Northwoods, but I think I might like it more because of the spice. Still not my favorite. (AC) Nutmeg one of the old spices-great for barbecue, baking, and of course, holiday drinks Good stuff. Definitely more potent than the supermarket brands. (JessaCita) This is the whole nutmeg, right? Really flavourful. Will never use ground nutmeg again. (blinknoodle) I use the ground, and love it. Strong nutmeg flavor, which I love. Good color. (AC) Old World Seasoning our answer to Lawry's® Seasoning Salt use as a great all purpose blend
Onion Powder for people who love onion flavor without the pieces Classic onion powder. Nothing of note to report, but it's good. (JessaCita) Really like this onion powder. It's smooth and flavorful. (AC) Onions minced
Onions minced toasted
Orange Extract 61% alcohol often used in conjunction with orange zest for many baking recipes Yum! I add this to citrus recipes for an extra punch of orange flavor. (JessaCita) Orange Peel add to coffee cake, waffle batter or as a sprinkle for cereal or potpourri Like the lemon peel, this is great to have on hand for when I don't have fresh citrus for zesting. It has a really nice, sweet flavor. (JessaCita) Oregano Turkish used in European cooking I use this as my regular oregano for everything that's not Mexican. It's good, but not extraordinary. (aC) Oregano Mexican used for Mexican dishes my favorite oregano....I often use it in non-mexican dishes...it just has a different flavor that I like. (erinmonster) This is my go-to oregano. (blinknoodle) Ozark Seasoning
Paprika California has the best color
Paprika Half sharp
Paprika Hungarian has the best flavor This is a nicely flavoured sweet paprika, with a bit of heat. (blinknoodle) Very bright color! Great paprika to use when a sweeter paprika is needed than the smoked. (AC) Parisien Bonnes Herbes salt free all purpose fragrant blend from the cooking capital of the world This is obviously French style, and is savory and sweet. It has chervil, dill, tarragon, and such things. I don't use too much of this, because it is slightly sweet, but good for soups. (AC) Parsley America's favorite herb Big parsley flakes. Good quality. (AC) Pasta Sprinkle salt free blend perfect for pasta and vegetables Yummy! This is actually great for sprinkling on pasta! I use it as an Italian blend for most things, and have even had it mixed into some pasta with just EB and garlic salt. Good blend. (AC) I don't think this tastes any different from Italian seasoning, but I like Italian seasoning, so I like this. Like the name says, it's great on pasta. (JessaCita)
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Posted by Allychristine on Mar 17, 2011 · Member since Dec 2007 · 15438 posts
Penzeys Cinnamon a perfect blend of each of our four ground cinnamons I had a little sampler of this and liked it, but now have converted to Vietnamese cinnamon. Can't turn back. (blinknoodle) This is a pretty good cinnamon, but I agree with blinknoodle! Vietnamese cinnamon all the way. I do like this for more of a mild flavor. (AC) Penzeys Freshly Ground Pepper reach for it instead of the salt
Penzeys Minced Garlic just like using fresh garlic
Pickling Spice high quality traditional blend use 2-3 tsp per quart
Piquin Chili Peppers small, fiery hot Mexican chilies. The hottest chili pepper we carry
Pizza Seasoning livens up frozen pizzas and is perfect for homemade pizzas and pizza sausage Love this! It's the perfect pizza style blend. I even sprinkled some on top of lasagna, and it was excellent. (AC) Poppy Seed Holland Blue is great for all baking I might be crazy, but I really do think that these have more flavor than most poppy seeds. They are sweet & nutty, and I love them in muffins & coffee cake. (JessaCita) Pretty poppy seeds! I think they have more flavor as well. (AC) Poppy Seed White is a staple in Indian cooking
Pork Chop Seasoning a smoky blend bursting with garlic
Poultry Seasoning salt free use 1/2 to 1 tsp per cup for stuffing
Powdered China #1 Ginger it is virtually fiber-free, yielding a buttery-soft powder when ground Very good & very strong! Wonderfully spicy & sweet. (JessaCita) Lovely creamy taste. (blinknoodle) Love this ginger! It really does have a stronger flavor, so I can use a little bit less of it. (AC) Pumpkin Pie Spice good in zucchini bread and carrot cake too-use 2-3 tsp per 9" pumpkin pie
Raspberry Enlightenment This is delicious! For some reason, I thought it would be a powdered spice, but it's actually like a sauce. The raspberry flavor is wonderful. I would eat this on...anything. (AC) Regular Chili Powder rich flavor, deep color and very little heat
Rogan Josh Seasoning a spicy, salt free curry powder
Rojo Taco Seasoning another delicious flavor packed marinade
Rosemary minty sweet herb Rosemary is one of my favorite herbs. I can't really taste a difference in the Penzeys rosemary from any other dried rosemary, but it's good. (JessaCita) I believe I have the one called "Spain cracked." I like that it's broken up just a tiny bit. I like rosemary. (AC) Saffron the stigma of the fall flowering crocus, it is the most expensive spice in the world I actually have never liked saffron in any recipes... I think it tastes like dirt! Again I ask: Am I crazy?! What is it supposed to taste like that makes people go so gaga for it? (JessaCita) Sage good to enhance salt free cooking
Salsa Salad Seasoning a spicy, Mexican style blend for coating fresh salsa, black bean or green salads
Salt French Grey Awesome! Very pretty & flavorful. I love sprinkling a little over roasted veggies (especially roasted rosemary potatoes!) as a finishing touch. (JessaCita) Salt Kosher style flake Classic Kosher salt. Good stuff. (JessaCita) Salt Pacific Sea
Sanaam Chili Peppers thin, flat 3"-5" deep red pods, traditional for Indian cooking
Sandwich Sprinkle (aka Crouton Seasoning) this blend is a Penzeys lunchtime favorite, perfect for any sandwich THE BEST SPICE BLEND!!! It is so great on smoked Tofurky sandwiches, and it is the PERFECT crouton spice blend. Cube stale bread, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with Sandwich Sprinkle. Bake until golden brown, and you will have the most perfect croutons in the entire world. I have several friends who think I am a crouton genius, when really all I do is use Sandwich Sprinkle + a shake of Italian seasoning + a little extra black pepper. Amazing! (JessaCita) Very yummy! This is an all purpose salt seasoning to sprinkle on anything! I've used it on potatoes several times. (AC) My favorite blend. (AC) Saté Seasoning an Indonesian curry
Savory flavor is a cross between mint and thyme with a touch of pepper used in bean soup and stuffing
Seasoned Salt Excellent salt blend. This is my all purpose seasoned salt, and I'll come back to it. (AC) Sesame Seed Black for Oriental cooking Pretty & tasty! I love sprinkling this over Asian-marinated tofu, and over stirfries. (JessaCita) Sesame Seed White for breads and rolls
Shallots garlic-onion flavor (but sweeter) used heavily in French cooking I have a jar of this & rarely use it. I guess I prefer fresh onions or shallots, but I think these would be good in a French onion dip made with Tofutti sour cream. (JessaCita) Shallot Salt we took the delicious flavor of shallots and added it to our sea salt This is fun, but does get clumped up. (AC) Shallot Pepper Seasoning bursting with the flavor of rich shallots and flavorful French tarragon
Shrimp/Crab Boil use 2-3 TB per 1/2 gallon water
Singapore Seasoning salt free curry-lemon blend
Single Strength Vanilla Extract 35% alcohol stronger and more flavorful than any store-bought vanilla extract Delicious! Very good quality vanilla. (JessaCita) I always buy organic vanilla, and I don't know that I like this more than others I've had. It's definitely good and strong, and I wouldn't mind buying it again. (AC) Smoky 4/S Special Seasoned Sea Salt smoky version of our 4/S Special Seasoned Sea Salt
Soup Base Vegetable I'm not really that impressed with this. It doesn't seem to have a whole lot of flavor that it can impart on soups/other things. It seems like mainly carrots, and has a pretty weird consistency (really pasty). I wouldn't get this again. (AC) Southwest Seasoning spicy, smoky chipotle pepper blend great for Mexican dirty rice
Spanish Paprika naturally smoked over oak fires. A spice that's good on everything The best smoked paprika! Fantastic flavor. Even the smell makes me swoon. (JessaCita) Yum. Makes roasted potatoes better. Good for lots of things. (AC) Spicy 4/S Special Seasoned Sea Salt spicy version of our 4/S Special Seasoned Sea Salt
Star Anise broken very strong licorice flavor. for pickling
Star Anise ground very strong licorice flavor. for baking Yep, very strong! I've only used pinches of it, but it adds a distinct flavor. (AC) Star Anise whole very strong licorice flavor. used in crafts and teas
Sumac it has a flavor that is similar to that of lemon juice or vinegar, but is milder and less acidic
Sunny Paris salt free version of Fox Point Seasoning
Sunny Spain salt free lemon pepper blend-the most popular of all our salt free blends
Sweet Curry Powder a salt free, good starter curry powder with great flavor and little heat my favorite curry that Penzey's offers! (erinmonster) The best curry powder! The perfect balance of sweet & spicy. Gorgeous color, too. (JessaCita) Your reviews made me buy this, being the curry powder novice. It is SOOO mild.. but I like it! I need to figure out how to make something comparable myself now. (blinknoodle) Szechuan Pepper Salt Sprinkle the possibilities are endless
Szechuan Peppercorns a must have for the Asian kitchen
Tandoori Seasoning a salt free curry powder
Tarragon rich, robust flavor
Thyme one of the best cooking herbs in the world I have the "French thyme." I used to really dislike thyme, but I've grown to like it more. I don't know that I've noticed a difference with this one. (AC) Tien Tsin Chili Peppers very hot, bright red, 1-2" Chinese pods
Trinidad Lemon and Garlic Marinade authentic Southern Caribbean seasoning
Tsardust Memories formerly known as Russian Sausage Seasoning
Turkish Seasoning
Turkish Sumac not sure what it is supposed to taste like and have yet to really experiment with it. Will update when I know more about it. (blinknoodle) Turmeric the main ingredient in most Southern Indian yellow curry powders I can't really taste the difference between this turmeric & the one that I buy from the bulk area of my co-op, but it's good. (JessaCita) Tuscan Sunset salt free Italian-style seasoning This is nice for an all purpose Italian blend that's not too herby. (AC) Vanilla Beans Madagascar commonly used in desserts such as ice cream, custard or cream sauces Great! I love fresh vanilla beans, but don't buy them often because they're so expensive. (JessaCita) Vanilla Beans Mexican
Vanilla Mexican (not beans) Vanilla with a spicy kick. Like it! (blinknoodle) Vanilla Sugar an old-fashioned mix of real Vanilla Beans aged in pure sugar, used before vanilla extract came along Delicious! I prefer to make my own vanilla sugar because (again), I like to use less processed, organic sugar & it's cheaper to make my own - but this Penzeys vanilla sugar is the first I ever tried. It's very good. The smell is amazing, too. (JessaCita) Venison Sausage Seasoning
Vietnamese Extra Fancy Cinnamon the highest quality, strongest cinnamon available in America today My favorite cinnamon, and my definite preference! I am forever spoiled with excellent cinnamon thanks to this. It is sweet, spicy, and very strong. The back of the jar says to use less of this cinnamon than a recipe calls for due to its strength, but I always use the full amount & it's just amazing. All other cinnamons pale in comparison. (JessaCita) LOVE it! It is so flavourful. I think it was America's Test Kitchens preferred cinnamon, too. (blinknoodle) Yes, love. Best cinnamon. (AC) Vindaloo Seasoning a salt free curry powder for those who like it very hot and flavorful
Wasabi blend/root popular in Japanese restaurants
White Pepper (Ground) preferred in European and Southeast Asian cooking
Whole Black Peppercorns Malabar Indian
Whole Black Peppercorns Special Extra Bold
Whole Black Peppercorns Tellicherry Indian
Whole Green Peppercorns well-suited for vegetables
Whole Pink Peppercorns expensive pink berries that add a touch of color and a rich, sweet flavor to almost any dish
Whole White Peppercorns Sarawak
Whole White Peppercorns Muntok have a rich, winey, somewhat hot flavor
Zatar a traditional, popular blend of the Middle East I don't like this much! I don't think I like sumac. (AC)
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Posted by oncewerewesties on Mar 17, 2011 · Member since Mar 2009 · 5849 posts
wow, awesome thread.
we just buy generic bulk spices from the indian grocery or bulk bin shop but will enjoy reading spice reviews!! : )
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Posted by Allychristine on Mar 17, 2011 · Member since Dec 2007 · 15438 posts
Ooh. This could also be a thread to talk about spices, in general! Things/brands that you like, etc. Those just won't get added to the list.
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Posted by oncewerewesties on Mar 17, 2011 · Member since Mar 2009 · 5849 posts
I find it funny that 'BBG 3000' is 'the future of barbeque'
but 'Chilli 3000' is 'the now chilli'
haha
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Posted by Allychristine on Mar 17, 2011 · Member since Dec 2007 · 15438 posts
I find it funny that 'BBG 3000' is 'the future of barbeque'
but 'Chilli 3000' is 'the now chilli'
haha
Good point!! I was sure that only 9000=future.
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Posted by erinmonster5 on Mar 21, 2011 · Member since Jan 2008 · 2870 posts
so there are tons of spices listed here that aren't in the store, and tons in the store that aren't listed here...so it's weird. but here are a few I feel strongly about that are listed :)
Cilantro - I really like the dried version of cilantro because fresh is just too strong for me....this gives you the feeling of cilantro without all the ickiness. (erin)
Northwoods Fire Seasoning - this is Andy's favorite spice, perhaps because his family is from the northwoods....it's spicy and woody, nice on grilled veggies.
Oregano Mexican - my favorite oregano....I often use it in non-mexican dishes...it just has a different flavor that I like.
Medium Hot Chili Powder - out of all of the chili powders I've tried from Penzey's, this is my favorite....not too hot for Andy, not too bland like the 3000 one.
Sweet Curry Powder - my favorite curry that Penzey's offers!
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Posted by Allychristine on Mar 21, 2011 · Member since Dec 2007 · 15438 posts
so there are tons of spices listed here that aren't in the store, and tons in the store that aren't listed here...so it's weird. but here are a few I feel strongly about that are listed :)
Oh! Hm. Well, feel free to add ones that you get from the store. Then I can know what all to ask you for. ;)
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Posted by VegRunSki on Mar 21, 2011 · Member since Jan 2010 · 193 posts
Northwoods Seasoning
This is my go-to seasoning for roasted potatoes/oven fries, and it's also great for the bulk uncheese mix (I add a bit of extra salt, since it doesn't seem quite salty enough).
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Posted by ~treehugginghip... on Apr 04, 2011 · Member since Sep 2007 · 3036 posts
for those of you that have purchased the jars for your bulk spices, is size G about the same size as the "simply organic" standard spice jars? It is so hard to guess. I dumped out a jar of "simply organic" spice blend into a 1 cup measure and it seems about right but I just feel I need to double check before ordering. Having all my jars match would make me happy. : )
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Posted by secondbase on Apr 09, 2011 · Member since Dec 2005 · 5540 posts
I don't have any Penzeys spices, but I just wanted to add that ajwain (carom) seeds are very similar to thyme, but much stronger. They are overpowering when consumed raw and can be overpowering if you add too much. Treat them like cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, and other pungent spices. They taste great in samosa dough, and added to mildly spiced vegetable side dishes (carrots, potatoes & peas is a favorite of mine)
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Posted by JessaCita on Apr 10, 2011 · Member since Nov 2006 · 1808 posts
Thanks for making this, AC! You're seriously the best. I am obsessed with Penzeys, so here we go... I am going to break mine out into a couple posts so nothing gets cut off!
Allspice Honduran - Good. I really only use allspice when baking spice or pumpkin breads, but this allspice is as good as any. (JessaCita)
Almond Extract - I loooove almond extract. Unlike vanilla extract, I can't really taste any difference between different almond extracts... But I typically buy almond extract from Penzeys or Simply Organic and I like them both. :) (JessaCita)
Apple Pie Spice - Good, but I don't typically buy it. I prefer to mix my own individual spices like cinnamon, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, etc. when baking. (JessaCita)
Arrowroot Starch - I love arrowroot (I usually use it instead of cornstarch), but don't buy it from Penzeys. Theirs is waaaaay more expensive than what you can get in a larger quantity at the grocery store, either a bag from Bob's Red Mill or in the bulk section. (JessaCita)
Baking Spice - Ditto what I said about the Apple Pie Spice. This is a nice blend, but I really prefer mixing my own spices. I have had a small jar of this for ages, and every time I use that, it seems to need more "oomph," so I usually add extra cinnamon. I think there might be a little too much anise for my tastes, too. (JessaCita)
Basil - I don't care for dried basil. I don't think it tastes anything like fresh basil, so I haven't bought this more than once! (JessaCita)
Bay Leaves - Typical bay leaves. I think they are comparatively priced to what you can get anywhere else. (JessaCita)
Bell Peppers freeze-dried mixed - I never would have bought these on my own, but my mom gave me a jar so I've been using them. They're a nice addition to chili, tacos, and sloppy joes! (JessaCita)
Bold Taco Seasoning (I didn't see this one listed, but I have it, so I wanted to review it!) - NOT VEGAN! I received this for free with a coupon & didn't bother to read the ingredients (lesson learned), and had been using it for awhile when I noticed that it contains milk lactose. :( It was good, but obviously I don't use it anymore. (JessaCita)
Caraway Seed - Really delicious! I adore caraway & these are really flavorful. (JessaCita)
Ceylon "True" Cinnamon - I think this is a little too mild on its own (I LOVE cinnamon & always use a lot of it), so I like to combine it with the Vietnamese Cinnamon, since that one is stronger. I know it might sound nuts to some people that there are different kinds of cinnamon & that they taste different from one another - but they really do! I am now a cinnamon snob thanks to Penzeys. :) (JessaCita)
China Tung Hing Cinnamon - A good, all-purpose cinnamon. Like the Ceylon Cinnamon, I like to combine this Tung Hing with the Vietnamese Cinnamon for different layers of cinnamon flavor. (JessaCita)
Cinnamon Sugar - Delicious, but I don't buy it. I mean, it's cinnamon + sugar, so it's cheaper to make your own. Plus, I like using organic sugar. (JessaCita)
Cloves - Yum! Very flavorful & fresh-tasting. (JessaCita)
Crystallized Ginger - Good, but VERY expensive! I now buy my crystallized ginger from the bulk spice section at my co-op. My co-op's is organic yet much less expensive than Penzeys. (JessaCita)
European Style Peppercorns - Great! What else can you say about pepper, really? :) (JessaCita)
Garlic - Good! Definitely more potent/flavorful than the cheaper garlic powder found at most grocery stores. (JessaCita)
Ground White Pepper - I actually hate white pepper, so I'm not the best judge of this. I don't know what it is, but white pepper just smells bad to me & tastes foul. I have been afraid to experiment with it because the few times I've used it, it made the dish inedible to me! Am I weird? I doubt it's just the Penzeys white pepper, but I have never tried another brand. (JessaCita)
Herbes de Provence - Delicious! I love using this in vegetable stews. The combination of all the spices with the lavender is really lovely. (JessaCita)
Hint of Mint Hot Chocolate Mix - Awesome!! I love mixing this with almond milk & topping with Dandies marshmallows. And you gotta love a milk-free hot cocoa mix! (JessaCita)
Hot Chocolate Mix - My boyfriend prefers this one because he doesn't like mint + chocolate (I know, WTF?). It's good, but I personally like the mint one much more. (JessaCita)
Italian Herb Mix - Good, standard Italian seasoning. (JessaCita)
Juniper Berries - Great! I have only ever used these to make corned "beef" seitan, but they were delicious.
Lemon Grass - I have a really hard time chopping fresh lemon grass, so I usually use this when fresh is called for in a recipe. It's pretty mild & tastes somewhat different from the fresh, but it gets the job done. I like having it on hand. (JessaCita)
Lemon Peel - I LOVE having this in my spice rack for when I don't have any citrus but want to add a bit of zest to a dish. It has a great, fresh flavor. (JessaCita)
Medium Hot Chili Powder - My favorite chili powder! Bold, perfectly spicy (but not TOO hot), and delicious. (JessaCita)
And just a note: If you sign up for Penzeys quarterly (or monthly?) catalog, they'll mail you a coupon for a free spice pretty often. It's a great way to try new things!
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Posted by JessaCita on Apr 10, 2011 · Member since Nov 2006 · 1808 posts
Mulling Spices - Makes great mulled cider and mulled wine! (JessaCita)
Northwoods Seasoning - I really like putting this in stews and on roasted veggies in the cooler Fall & Winter months. It has a nice earthy, smoky flavor. (JessaCita)
Nutmeg - Good stuff. Definitely more potent than the supermarket brands. (JessaCita)
Onion Powder - Classic onion powder. Nothing of note to report, but it's good. (JessaCita)
Lemon Extract - I love this stuff! I always add a bit to sweet recipes (like muffins, cake, scones, etc.) that call for lemon zest. It adds a little extra lemon flavor that is delicious. (JessaCita)
Orange Extract - Yum! I add this to citrus recipes for an extra punch of orange flavor. (JessaCita)
Orange Peel - Like the lemon peel, this is great to have on hand for when I don't have fresh citrus for zesting. It has a really nice, sweet flavor. (JessaCita)
Pasta Sprinkle - I don't think this tastes any different from Italian seasoning, but I like Italian seasoning, so I like this. :) Like the name says, it's great on pasta. (JessaCita)
Poppy Seed Holland Blue - I might be crazy, but I really do think that these have more flavor than most poppy seeds. They are sweet & nutty, and I love them in muffins & coffee cake. (JessaCita)
Powdered China #1 Ginger - Very good & very strong! Wonderfully spicy & sweet. (JessaCita)
Rosemary - Rosemary is one of my favorite herbs. I can't really taste a difference in the Penzeys rosemary from any other dried rosemary, but it's good. (JessaCita)
Saffron - I actually have never liked saffron in any recipes... I think it tastes like dirt! Again I ask: Am I crazy?! What is it supposed to taste like that makes people go so gaga for it? (JessaCita)
Salt French Grey - Awesome! Very pretty & flavorful. I love sprinkling a little over roasted veggies (especially roasted rosemary potatoes!) as a finishing touch. (JessaCita)
Salt Kosher style flake - Classic Kosher salt. Good stuff. (JessaCita)
Sandwich Sprinkle (aka Crouton Seasoning) - THE BEST SPICE BLEND!!! It is so great on smoked Tofurky sandwiches, and it is the PERFECT crouton spice blend. Cube stale bread, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with Sandwich Sprinkle. Bake until golden brown, and you will have the most perfect croutons in the entire world. I have several friends who think I am a crouton genius, when really all I do is use Sandwich Sprinkle + a shake of Italian seasoning + a little extra black pepper. Amazing! (JessaCita)
Sesame Seed Black - Pretty & tasty! I love sprinkling this over Asian-marinated tofu, and over stirfries. (JessaCita)
Shallots - I have a jar of this & rarely use it. I guess I prefer fresh onions or shallots, but I think these would be good in a French onion dip made with Tofutti sour cream. (JessaCita)
Single Strength Vanilla Extract - Delicious! Very good quality vanilla. (JessaCita)
Spanish Paprika - The best smoked paprika! Fantastic flavor. Even the smell makes me swoon. (JessaCita)
Sweet Curry Powder - The best curry powder! The perfect balance of sweet & spicy. Gorgeous color, too. (JessaCita)
Turmeric - I can't really taste the difference between this turmeric & the one that I buy from the bulk area of my co-op, but it's good. (JessaCita)
Vanilla Beans Madagascar - Great! I love fresh vanilla beans, but don't buy them often because they're so expensive. (JessaCita)
Vanilla Sugar - Delicious! I prefer to make my own vanilla sugar because (again), I like to use less processed, organic sugar & it's cheaper to make my own - but this Penzeys vanilla sugar is the first I ever tried. It's very good. The smell is amazing, too. (JessaCita)
Vietnamese Extra Fancy Cinnamon - My favorite cinnamon, and my definite preference! I am forever spoiled with excellent cinnamon thanks to this. It is sweet, spicy, and very strong. The back of the jar says to use less of this cinnamon than a recipe calls for due to its strength, but I always use the full amount & it's just amazing. All other cinnamons pale in comparison. :) (JessaCita)
Whew! That's all for now. :D
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Posted by Allychristine on Apr 13, 2011 · Member since Dec 2007 · 15438 posts
Yeah, I should mention that only vegan spices are listed in the compilation. There are some taco seasonings and others that are not vegan, so be sure to check!
eta: I agree about white pepper! It smells like moth balls.
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Posted by JessaCita on Apr 14, 2011 · Member since Nov 2006 · 1808 posts
Good to know! :)
I'm kinda glad to hear that you don't like white pepper, either. It seems to be called for in lots of "fancy" recipes (same with saffron), so I was thinking my taste buds just weren't elegant or classy enough. ;)
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Posted by Allychristine on Apr 14, 2011 · Member since Dec 2007 · 15438 posts
No, I think a lot of people don't like it. I kinda remember a discussion somewhere on vw about it. I think sb likes it! I threw out my baggie of it, because it was stinking up everything. Gross.
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Posted by blinknoodle on May 01, 2011 · Member since Dec 2001 · 333 posts
I live in Canada, but the one time I went to Penzey's I stocked up! LOVED it! Fresh spices are definitely where its at for great tasting dishes. :) Basil -California Sweet Nicely flavoured, sweet
Bay Leaves I think these have great flavour! Not too expensive, either.
Cloves Nicely flavoured
Cumin Excellent. Very flavourful.
Double Strength Vanilla Nicely flavoured and you use half as much
Nutmeg This is the whole nutmeg, right? Really flavourful. Will never use ground nutmeg again. Oregano Mexican This is my go-to oregano
Paprika Hungarian This is a nicely flavoured sweet paprika, with a bit of heat.
Penzeys Cinnamon I had a little sampler of this and liked it, but now have converted to Vietnamese cinnamon. Can't turn back.
Powdered China #1 Ginger Lovely creamy taste.
Vietnamese Extra Fancy Cinnamon LOVE it! It is so flavourful. I think it was America's Test Kitchens preferred cinnamon, too.
Other spices that I've bought but not on the list:
Allspice - whole Nicely flavoured
Cinnamon China Cassia I like this one with its "bite"
Cocoa Natural High Fat Nicely flavoured, rich
Vanilla - Mexican (not a bean) Vanilla with a spicy kick. Like it!
While rummaging in my drawers I noticed I also have Ceylon "True" Cinnamon which I forgot I had... I was smitten with the Vietnamese cinnamon. I should start using this one, too! I also have their double-strength cardamom that I have yet to use.
I also have the Turkish sumac, but not sure what it is supposed to taste like and have yet to really experiment with it. Will update when I know more about it. :)
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Posted by Allychristine on May 02, 2011 · Member since Dec 2007 · 15438 posts
I'm planning on doing a spice order for friday!
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Posted by blinknoodle on May 03, 2011 · Member since Dec 2001 · 333 posts
I haven't tried the one from Penzey's yet, but I adore my Aleppo chili flakes (I picked mine up while I was in Turkey and haven't needed to replenish yet). It is more flavourful than spicy and I throw it into anything... I substitute it for all kinds of sipce since I don't like meals that are super spicy. Aleppo has a nice balance... So if anyone wants to try something new, try Aleppo! :)
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Posted by secondbase on May 04, 2011 · Member since Dec 2005 · 5540 posts
No, I think a lot of people don't like it. I kinda remember a discussion somewhere on vw about it. I think sb likes it! I threw out my baggie of it, because it was stinking up everything. Gross.
I do like it, but the trick is to get whole white peppercorns and freshly crack them. I've not had the best luck with ground white pepper, and I've heard other people complaining about an "off" taste. I would attribute that to a slow turnover rate and it sitting on shelves for ever and ever. Because white pepper is DELICIOUS.
Double Strength Vanilla 35% alcohol adds an unbeatably rich vanilla flavor to baked goods
Nicely flavoured and you use half as much. (blinknoodle)
Dundicut Pepperstraditional hot pepper of Pakistan, similar in flavor and appearance to Scotch bonnet
English Prime Rib Rub great for bloody Marys and stronger vegetables
Epazote add to chili or bean soup to relieve intestinal discomfort
European Style Peppercorns Tellicherry black peppercorns and Sarawak white peppercorns
Great! What else can you say about pepper, really? (JessaCita)
I really like the flavor of this, but when I get a lot of the white pepper, I am not a fan. It's flavorful, but I just don't like white pepper. I think I'll try a different one. (AC)
Fajita Seasoning also good on tacos
This is ok. I think it has a bit too much oregano, or something. Not something I'd need to get again. (AC)
Fennel ground
Fennel whole on pizza and in tomato sauces and sausage
This is a good fennel. Nice flavor, seeds are a good size. (AC)
Fenugreek used in curries and Indian dishes
Fines Herbes salt free blend perfect for omelets and quiche
Florida Seasoned Pepper salt free citrus pepper blend good on vegetables
Forward One of our best ever all-purpose seasonings. And, it's salt free!
So good on roasted potatoes! This has a lot of great flavor (AC)
Four Peppercorn Blend adds festive color and flavor to any dish where one would use fresh pepper
Fox Point Seasoning yummy blend that's great for dips
French Four Spice a salt-free seasoning
Galangal close relative of ginger, has a flavor that is similar to ginger, but more flowery and intense
Garam Masala a salt free, all-purpose blend called for in many Indian dishes
This is a great Indian blend. Called for in so many Indian style recipes. (AC)
Garlic Powder a staple of Italian cooking as well as Chinese, French and American cuisine
Good! Definitely more potent/flavorful than the cheaper garlic powder found at most grocery stores. (JessaCita)
The garlic powder I bought before seemed stronger, but it also seemed fake. This is just nice quality, pure garlic powder. It's very smooth. (AC)
Garlic Salt sprinkle in pasta and on garlic bread
Yummy garlic salt. Nice and smooth. (AC)
Greek Seasoning makes a nice salad dressing and is perfect for gyro sauce
Green Goddess an old-fashioned, salt free, classical style salad dressing
Ground Black Pepper comes in a wide variety of grind sizes to fit every use
Ground White Pepper preferred in European and Southeast Asian cooking
I actually hate white pepper, so I'm not the best judge of this. I don't know what it is, but white pepper just smells bad to me & tastes foul. I have been afraid to experiment with it because the few times I've used it, it made the dish inedible to me! Am I weird? I doubt it's just the Penzeys white pepper, but I have never tried another brand. (JessaCita)
Guajillo Peppers not hot but rich, smoky and complex
Gumbo File also known as powdered sassafras, a staple for Cajun and Creole cooking
Herbes de Provence salt free blend with lavender
Delicious! I love using this in vegetable stews. The combination of all the spices with the lavender is really lovely. (JessaCita)
Hint of Mint Hot Chocolate Mix great mint hot chocolate or spoon into coffee for a minty cafe mocha
Awesome!! I love mixing this with almond milk & topping with Dandies marshmallows. And you gotta love a milk-free hot cocoa mix! (JessaCita)
Horseradish Dip spicy blend that makes a tangy vegetable and chip dip
I have this, but I've yet to mix it up. I need to get some things to dip in it! (AC)
Horseradish Powder
Hot Chili Powder this is the best powder for those who like their chili hot and flavorful
Hot Chocolate Mix rich, smooth flavor. Just mix 1 tablespoon per cup nondairy milk
My boyfriend prefers this one because he doesn't like mint + chocolate (I know, WTF?). It's good, but I personally like the mint one much more. (JessaCita)
Hot Curry Powder same great, salt free flavor as the sweet, but with more hot red pepper and ginger
Delicious! This is a great curry blend, with just a bit more blend. It is slightly hot, and I enjoy it. (AC)
Italian Herb Mix great in all Italian dishes
Good, standard Italian seasoning. (JessaCita)
Italian Sausage Seasoning great for cookouts, meatballs, and sausage patties
Italian Vinegar and Oil our most popular salad seasoning
Jalapeño Peppers hotter than cayenne pepper, but the heat leaves your mouth sooner
Jerk Chicken/Fish salt free Caribbean barbecue seasoning
Jerk Pork salt free Caribbean barbecue seasoning
Juniper Berries
Great! I have only ever used these to make corned "beef" seitan, but they were delicious. (JessaCita)
Kala Jeeraprized by Indian and Pakistani cooks, it is used in small amounts due to its exotic flowery flavor
Korintje Indonesia Cinnamon sweet and mellow, this is the cinnamon we remember from our childhood
I've only used this a couple times for baking things, and haven't noticed a huge difference between other cinnamons. It's definitely good, though. Smells really good. (AC)
Kraków Nights formerly known as Polish Sausage Seasoning
Lamb Seasoning salt free blend
Lemon Extract 61% alcohol used in baking or added to marinades
I love this stuff! I always add a bit to sweet recipes (like muffins, cake, scones, etc.) that call for lemon zest. It adds a little extra lemon flavor that is delicious. (JessaCita)
Lemon Grass herb used most often in Southeast Asian cooking
I have a really hard time chopping fresh lemon grass, so I usually use this when fresh is called for in a recipe. It's pretty mild & tastes somewhat different from the fresh, but it gets the job done. I like having it on hand. (JessaCita)
Lemon Peel
I LOVE having this in my spice rack for when I don't have any citrus but want to add a bit of zest to a dish. It has a great, fresh flavor. (JessaCita)
Lemon-Pepper Seasoning a great, classic blend made better with new Special Extra Bold Pepper
This is nice and strong. It's good! Doesn't have added crap like some of the ones in stores. (AC)
Mace the lace-like, dried covering of a nutmeg, sweet and flavorful-a spice well worth using
Maharajah Style Curry Powder a high quality, salt free curry powder that is sweet, but not hot
Mahlab the pit of a sour cherry, it is a sweet/sour, nutty addition to breads, cookies and biscuits
Marjoram used in Polish, Italian, French and Mexican cooking and is the next big herb rediscovery
I don't use marjoram a ton, but I can't really tell a difference between this and others. It's good when I use it. (AC)
Medium Hot Chili Powder our most popular chili powder, good rich flavor that's not too hot
out of all of the chili powders I've tried from Penzey's, this is my favorite....not too hot for Andy, not too bland like the 3000 one. (erinmonster)
My favorite chili powder! Bold, perfectly spicy (but not TOO hot), and delicious. (JessaCita)
I think this is good, but I don't think I love it. It doesn't stand out much to me. I'll try a different one next time, but do like this. (AC)
Mignonette Pepper
Mint spearmint and peppermint, both used in teas and candy making
Mulling Spices makes great cider or potpourri too
Makes great mulled cider and mulled wine! (JessaCita)
Mural Of Flavor a blend of over a dozen spices and herbs
Mustard Powder Oriental Canadian (hot) to make mustard use 8 parts mustard to 7 parts liquid
Mustard Powder regular Canadian to make mustard use 8 parts mustard to 7 parts liquid
Mustard Seed preferred over powder in barbecue sauces, marinades and rubs
Northwoods Seasoning rosemary-paprika based blend
I really like putting this in stews and on roasted veggies in the cooler Fall & Winter months. It has a nice earthy, smoky flavor. (JessaCita)
Yep, earthy and smoky. This adds a nice touch to veggies, but it's not my favorite. I don't love smoky things (AC)
Northwoods Fire Seasoning a hotter, spicer version of the popular Northwoods Seasoning
this is Andy's favorite spice, perhaps because his family is from the northwoods....it's spicy and woody, nice on grilled veggies. (erinmonster)
This is my go-to seasoning for roasted potatoes/oven fries, and it's also great for the bulk uncheese mix (I add a bit of extra salt, since it doesn't seem quite salty enough). (vegrunski)
This is smokier than the regular Northwoods, but I think I might like it more because of the spice. Still not my favorite. (AC)
Nutmeg one of the old spices-great for barbecue, baking, and of course, holiday drinks
Good stuff. Definitely more potent than the supermarket brands. (JessaCita)
This is the whole nutmeg, right? Really flavourful. Will never use ground nutmeg again. (blinknoodle)
I use the ground, and love it. Strong nutmeg flavor, which I love. Good color. (AC)
Old World Seasoning our answer to Lawry's® Seasoning Salt use as a great all purpose blend
Onion Powder for people who love onion flavor without the pieces
Classic onion powder. Nothing of note to report, but it's good. (JessaCita)
Really like this onion powder. It's smooth and flavorful. (AC)
Onions minced
Onions minced toasted
Orange Extract 61% alcohol often used in conjunction with orange zest for many baking recipes
Yum! I add this to citrus recipes for an extra punch of orange flavor. (JessaCita)
Orange Peel add to coffee cake, waffle batter or as a sprinkle for cereal or potpourri
Like the lemon peel, this is great to have on hand for when I don't have fresh citrus for zesting. It has a really nice, sweet flavor. (JessaCita)
Oregano Turkish used in European cooking
I use this as my regular oregano for everything that's not Mexican. It's good, but not extraordinary. (aC)
Oregano Mexican used for Mexican dishes
my favorite oregano....I often use it in non-mexican dishes...it just has a different flavor that I like. (erinmonster)
This is my go-to oregano. (blinknoodle)
Ozark Seasoning
Paprika California has the best color
Paprika Half sharp
Paprika Hungarian has the best flavor
This is a nicely flavoured sweet paprika, with a bit of heat. (blinknoodle)
Very bright color! Great paprika to use when a sweeter paprika is needed than the smoked. (AC)
Parisien Bonnes Herbes salt free all purpose fragrant blend from the cooking capital of the world
This is obviously French style, and is savory and sweet. It has chervil, dill, tarragon, and such things. I don't use too much of this, because it is slightly sweet, but good for soups. (AC)
Parsley America's favorite herb
Big parsley flakes. Good quality. (AC)
Pasta Sprinkle salt free blend perfect for pasta and vegetables
Yummy! This is actually great for sprinkling on pasta! I use it as an Italian blend for most things, and have even had it mixed into some pasta with just EB and garlic salt. Good blend. (AC)
I don't think this tastes any different from Italian seasoning, but I like Italian seasoning, so I like this. Like the name says, it's great on pasta. (JessaCita)
Penzeys Cinnamon a perfect blend of each of our four ground cinnamons
I had a little sampler of this and liked it, but now have converted to Vietnamese cinnamon. Can't turn back. (blinknoodle)
This is a pretty good cinnamon, but I agree with blinknoodle! Vietnamese cinnamon all the way. I do like this for more of a mild flavor. (AC)
Penzeys Freshly Ground Pepper reach for it instead of the salt
Penzeys Minced Garlic just like using fresh garlic
Pickling Spice high quality traditional blend use 2-3 tsp per quart
Piquin Chili Peppers small, fiery hot Mexican chilies. The hottest chili pepper we carry
Pizza Seasoning livens up frozen pizzas and is perfect for homemade pizzas and pizza sausage
Love this! It's the perfect pizza style blend. I even sprinkled some on top of lasagna, and it was excellent. (AC)
Poppy Seed Holland Blue is great for all baking
I might be crazy, but I really do think that these have more flavor than most poppy seeds. They are sweet & nutty, and I love them in muffins & coffee cake. (JessaCita)
Pretty poppy seeds! I think they have more flavor as well. (AC)
Poppy Seed White is a staple in Indian cooking
Pork Chop Seasoning a smoky blend bursting with garlic
Poultry Seasoning salt free use 1/2 to 1 tsp per cup for stuffing
Powdered China #1 Ginger it is virtually fiber-free, yielding a buttery-soft powder when ground
Very good & very strong! Wonderfully spicy & sweet. (JessaCita)
Lovely creamy taste. (blinknoodle)
Love this ginger! It really does have a stronger flavor, so I can use a little bit less of it. (AC)
Pumpkin Pie Spice good in zucchini bread and carrot cake too-use 2-3 tsp per 9" pumpkin pie
Raspberry Enlightenment
This is delicious! For some reason, I thought it would be a powdered spice, but it's actually like a sauce. The raspberry flavor is wonderful. I would eat this on...anything. (AC)
Regular Chili Powder rich flavor, deep color and very little heat
Rogan Josh Seasoning a spicy, salt free curry powder
Rojo Taco Seasoning another delicious flavor packed marinade
Rosemary minty sweet herb
Rosemary is one of my favorite herbs. I can't really taste a difference in the Penzeys rosemary from any other dried rosemary, but it's good. (JessaCita)
I believe I have the one called "Spain cracked." I like that it's broken up just a tiny bit. I like rosemary. (AC)
Saffron the stigma of the fall flowering crocus, it is the most expensive spice in the world
I actually have never liked saffron in any recipes... I think it tastes like dirt! Again I ask: Am I crazy?! What is it supposed to taste like that makes people go so gaga for it? (JessaCita)
Sage good to enhance salt free cooking
Salsa Salad Seasoning a spicy, Mexican style blend for coating fresh salsa, black bean or green salads
Salt French Grey
Awesome! Very pretty & flavorful. I love sprinkling a little over roasted veggies (especially roasted rosemary potatoes!) as a finishing touch. (JessaCita)
Salt Kosher style flake
Classic Kosher salt. Good stuff. (JessaCita)
Salt Pacific Sea
Sanaam Chili Peppers thin, flat 3"-5" deep red pods, traditional for Indian cooking
Sandwich Sprinkle (aka Crouton Seasoning) this blend is a Penzeys lunchtime favorite, perfect for any sandwich
THE BEST SPICE BLEND!!! It is so great on smoked Tofurky sandwiches, and it is the PERFECT crouton spice blend. Cube stale bread, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with Sandwich Sprinkle. Bake until golden brown, and you will have the most perfect croutons in the entire world. I have several friends who think I am a crouton genius, when really all I do is use Sandwich Sprinkle + a shake of Italian seasoning + a little extra black pepper. Amazing! (JessaCita)
Very yummy! This is an all purpose salt seasoning to sprinkle on anything! I've used it on potatoes several times. (AC)
My favorite blend. (AC)
Saté Seasoning an Indonesian curry
Savory flavor is a cross between mint and thyme with a touch of pepper used in bean soup and stuffing
Seasoned Salt
Excellent salt blend. This is my all purpose seasoned salt, and I'll come back to it. (AC)
Sesame Seed Black for Oriental cooking
Pretty & tasty! I love sprinkling this over Asian-marinated tofu, and over stirfries. (JessaCita)
Sesame Seed White for breads and rolls
Shallots garlic-onion flavor (but sweeter) used heavily in French cooking
I have a jar of this & rarely use it. I guess I prefer fresh onions or shallots, but I think these would be good in a French onion dip made with Tofutti sour cream. (JessaCita)
Shallot Salt we took the delicious flavor of shallots and added it to our sea salt
This is fun, but does get clumped up. (AC)
Shallot Pepper Seasoning bursting with the flavor of rich shallots and flavorful French tarragon
Shrimp/Crab Boil use 2-3 TB per 1/2 gallon water
Singapore Seasoning salt free curry-lemon blend
Single Strength Vanilla Extract 35% alcohol stronger and more flavorful than any store-bought vanilla extract
Delicious! Very good quality vanilla. (JessaCita)
I always buy organic vanilla, and I don't know that I like this more than others I've had. It's definitely good and strong, and I wouldn't mind buying it again. (AC)
Smoky 4/S Special Seasoned Sea Salt smoky version of our 4/S Special Seasoned Sea Salt
Soup Base Vegetable
I'm not really that impressed with this. It doesn't seem to have a whole lot of flavor that it can impart on soups/other things. It seems like mainly carrots, and has a pretty weird consistency (really pasty). I wouldn't get this again. (AC)
Southwest Seasoning spicy, smoky chipotle pepper blend great for Mexican dirty rice
Spanish Paprika naturally smoked over oak fires. A spice that's good on everything
The best smoked paprika! Fantastic flavor. Even the smell makes me swoon. (JessaCita)
Yum. Makes roasted potatoes better. Good for lots of things. (AC)
Spicy 4/S Special Seasoned Sea Salt spicy version of our 4/S Special Seasoned Sea Salt
Star Anise broken very strong licorice flavor. for pickling
Star Anise ground very strong licorice flavor. for baking
Yep, very strong! I've only used pinches of it, but it adds a distinct flavor. (AC)
Star Anise whole very strong licorice flavor. used in crafts and teas
Sumac it has a flavor that is similar to that of lemon juice or vinegar, but is milder and less acidic
Sunny Paris salt free version of Fox Point Seasoning
Sunny Spain salt free lemon pepper blend-the most popular of all our salt free blends
Sweet Curry Powder a salt free, good starter curry powder with great flavor and little heat
my favorite curry that Penzey's offers! (erinmonster)
The best curry powder! The perfect balance of sweet & spicy. Gorgeous color, too. (JessaCita)
Your reviews made me buy this, being the curry powder novice. It is SOOO mild.. but I like it! I need to figure out how to make something comparable myself now. (blinknoodle)
Szechuan Pepper Salt Sprinkle the possibilities are endless
Szechuan Peppercorns a must have for the Asian kitchen
Tandoori Seasoning a salt free curry powder
Tarragon rich, robust flavor
Thyme one of the best cooking herbs in the world
I have the "French thyme." I used to really dislike thyme, but I've grown to like it more. I don't know that I've noticed a difference with this one. (AC)
Tien Tsin Chili Peppers very hot, bright red, 1-2" Chinese pods
Trinidad Lemon and Garlic Marinade authentic Southern Caribbean seasoning
Tsardust Memories formerly known as Russian Sausage Seasoning
Turkish Seasoning
Turkish Sumac
not sure what it is supposed to taste like and have yet to really experiment with it. Will update when I know more about it. (blinknoodle)
Turmeric the main ingredient in most Southern Indian yellow curry powders
I can't really taste the difference between this turmeric & the one that I buy from the bulk area of my co-op, but it's good. (JessaCita)
Tuscan Sunset salt free Italian-style seasoning
This is nice for an all purpose Italian blend that's not too herby. (AC)
Vanilla Beans Madagascar commonly used in desserts such as ice cream, custard or cream sauces
Great! I love fresh vanilla beans, but don't buy them often because they're so expensive. (JessaCita)
Vanilla Beans Mexican
Vanilla Mexican (not beans)
Vanilla with a spicy kick. Like it! (blinknoodle)
Vanilla Sugar an old-fashioned mix of real Vanilla Beans aged in pure sugar, used before vanilla extract came along
Delicious! I prefer to make my own vanilla sugar because (again), I like to use less processed, organic sugar & it's cheaper to make my own - but this Penzeys vanilla sugar is the first I ever tried. It's very good. The smell is amazing, too. (JessaCita)
Venison Sausage Seasoning
Vietnamese Extra Fancy Cinnamon the highest quality, strongest cinnamon available in America today
My favorite cinnamon, and my definite preference! I am forever spoiled with excellent cinnamon thanks to this. It is sweet, spicy, and very strong. The back of the jar says to use less of this cinnamon than a recipe calls for due to its strength, but I always use the full amount & it's just amazing. All other cinnamons pale in comparison. (JessaCita)
LOVE it! It is so flavourful. I think it was America's Test Kitchens preferred cinnamon, too. (blinknoodle)
Yes, love. Best cinnamon. (AC)
Vindaloo Seasoning a salt free curry powder for those who like it very hot and flavorful
Wasabi blend/root popular in Japanese restaurants
White Pepper (Ground) preferred in European and Southeast Asian cooking
Whole Black Peppercorns Malabar Indian
Whole Black Peppercorns Special Extra Bold
Whole Black Peppercorns Tellicherry Indian
Whole Green Peppercorns well-suited for vegetables
Whole Pink Peppercorns expensive pink berries that add a touch of color and a rich, sweet flavor to almost any dish
Whole White Peppercorns Sarawak
Whole White Peppercorns Muntok have a rich, winey, somewhat hot flavor
Zatar a traditional, popular blend of the Middle East
I don't like this much! I don't think I like sumac. (AC)
wow, awesome thread.
we just buy generic bulk spices from the indian grocery or bulk bin shop but will enjoy reading spice reviews!! : )
Ooh. This could also be a thread to talk about spices, in general! Things/brands that you like, etc. Those just won't get added to the list.
I find it funny that 'BBG 3000' is 'the future of barbeque'
but 'Chilli 3000' is 'the now chilli'
haha
I find it funny that 'BBG 3000' is 'the future of barbeque'
but 'Chilli 3000' is 'the now chilli'
haha
Good point!! I was sure that only 9000=future.
so there are tons of spices listed here that aren't in the store, and tons in the store that aren't listed here...so it's weird.
but here are a few I feel strongly about that are listed :)
Cilantro - I really like the dried version of cilantro because fresh is just too strong for me....this gives you the feeling of cilantro without all the ickiness. (erin)
Northwoods Fire Seasoning - this is Andy's favorite spice, perhaps because his family is from the northwoods....it's spicy and woody, nice on grilled veggies.
Oregano Mexican - my favorite oregano....I often use it in non-mexican dishes...it just has a different flavor that I like.
Medium Hot Chili Powder - out of all of the chili powders I've tried from Penzey's, this is my favorite....not too hot for Andy, not too bland like the 3000 one.
Sweet Curry Powder - my favorite curry that Penzey's offers!
so there are tons of spices listed here that aren't in the store, and tons in the store that aren't listed here...so it's weird.
but here are a few I feel strongly about that are listed :)
Oh! Hm. Well, feel free to add ones that you get from the store. Then I can know what all to ask you for. ;)
Northwoods Seasoning
This is my go-to seasoning for roasted potatoes/oven fries, and it's also great for the bulk uncheese mix (I add a bit of extra salt, since it doesn't seem quite salty enough).
for those of you that have purchased the jars for your bulk spices, is size G about the same size as the "simply organic" standard spice jars? It is so hard to guess. I dumped out a jar of "simply organic" spice blend into a 1 cup measure and it seems about right but I just feel I need to double check before ordering. Having all my jars match would make me happy. : )
I don't have any Penzeys spices, but I just wanted to add that ajwain (carom) seeds are very similar to thyme, but much stronger. They are overpowering when consumed raw and can be overpowering if you add too much. Treat them like cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, and other pungent spices. They taste great in samosa dough, and added to mildly spiced vegetable side dishes (carrots, potatoes & peas is a favorite of mine)
Thanks for making this, AC! You're seriously the best. I am obsessed with Penzeys, so here we go... I am going to break mine out into a couple posts so nothing gets cut off!
Allspice Honduran - Good. I really only use allspice when baking spice or pumpkin breads, but this allspice is as good as any. (JessaCita)
Almond Extract - I loooove almond extract. Unlike vanilla extract, I can't really taste any difference between different almond extracts... But I typically buy almond extract from Penzeys or Simply Organic and I like them both. :) (JessaCita)
Apple Pie Spice - Good, but I don't typically buy it. I prefer to mix my own individual spices like cinnamon, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, etc. when baking. (JessaCita)
Arrowroot Starch - I love arrowroot (I usually use it instead of cornstarch), but don't buy it from Penzeys. Theirs is waaaaay more expensive than what you can get in a larger quantity at the grocery store, either a bag from Bob's Red Mill or in the bulk section. (JessaCita)
Baking Spice - Ditto what I said about the Apple Pie Spice. This is a nice blend, but I really prefer mixing my own spices. I have had a small jar of this for ages, and every time I use that, it seems to need more "oomph," so I usually add extra cinnamon. I think there might be a little too much anise for my tastes, too. (JessaCita)
Basil - I don't care for dried basil. I don't think it tastes anything like fresh basil, so I haven't bought this more than once! (JessaCita)
Bay Leaves - Typical bay leaves. I think they are comparatively priced to what you can get anywhere else. (JessaCita)
Bell Peppers freeze-dried mixed - I never would have bought these on my own, but my mom gave me a jar so I've been using them. They're a nice addition to chili, tacos, and sloppy joes! (JessaCita)
Bold Taco Seasoning (I didn't see this one listed, but I have it, so I wanted to review it!) - NOT VEGAN! I received this for free with a coupon & didn't bother to read the ingredients (lesson learned), and had been using it for awhile when I noticed that it contains milk lactose. :( It was good, but obviously I don't use it anymore. (JessaCita)
Caraway Seed - Really delicious! I adore caraway & these are really flavorful. (JessaCita)
Ceylon "True" Cinnamon - I think this is a little too mild on its own (I LOVE cinnamon & always use a lot of it), so I like to combine it with the Vietnamese Cinnamon, since that one is stronger. I know it might sound nuts to some people that there are different kinds of cinnamon & that they taste different from one another - but they really do! I am now a cinnamon snob thanks to Penzeys. :) (JessaCita)
China Tung Hing Cinnamon - A good, all-purpose cinnamon. Like the Ceylon Cinnamon, I like to combine this Tung Hing with the Vietnamese Cinnamon for different layers of cinnamon flavor. (JessaCita)
Cinnamon Sugar - Delicious, but I don't buy it. I mean, it's cinnamon + sugar, so it's cheaper to make your own. Plus, I like using organic sugar. (JessaCita)
Cloves - Yum! Very flavorful & fresh-tasting. (JessaCita)
Crystallized Ginger - Good, but VERY expensive! I now buy my crystallized ginger from the bulk spice section at my co-op. My co-op's is organic yet much less expensive than Penzeys. (JessaCita)
European Style Peppercorns - Great! What else can you say about pepper, really? :) (JessaCita)
Garlic - Good! Definitely more potent/flavorful than the cheaper garlic powder found at most grocery stores. (JessaCita)
Ground White Pepper - I actually hate white pepper, so I'm not the best judge of this. I don't know what it is, but white pepper just smells bad to me & tastes foul. I have been afraid to experiment with it because the few times I've used it, it made the dish inedible to me! Am I weird? I doubt it's just the Penzeys white pepper, but I have never tried another brand. (JessaCita)
Herbes de Provence - Delicious! I love using this in vegetable stews. The combination of all the spices with the lavender is really lovely. (JessaCita)
Hint of Mint Hot Chocolate Mix - Awesome!! I love mixing this with almond milk & topping with Dandies marshmallows. And you gotta love a milk-free hot cocoa mix! (JessaCita)
Hot Chocolate Mix - My boyfriend prefers this one because he doesn't like mint + chocolate (I know, WTF?). It's good, but I personally like the mint one much more. (JessaCita)
Italian Herb Mix - Good, standard Italian seasoning. (JessaCita)
Juniper Berries - Great! I have only ever used these to make corned "beef" seitan, but they were delicious.
Lemon Grass - I have a really hard time chopping fresh lemon grass, so I usually use this when fresh is called for in a recipe. It's pretty mild & tastes somewhat different from the fresh, but it gets the job done. I like having it on hand. (JessaCita)
Lemon Peel - I LOVE having this in my spice rack for when I don't have any citrus but want to add a bit of zest to a dish. It has a great, fresh flavor. (JessaCita)
Medium Hot Chili Powder - My favorite chili powder! Bold, perfectly spicy (but not TOO hot), and delicious. (JessaCita)
And just a note: If you sign up for Penzeys quarterly (or monthly?) catalog, they'll mail you a coupon for a free spice pretty often. It's a great way to try new things!
Mulling Spices - Makes great mulled cider and mulled wine! (JessaCita)
Northwoods Seasoning - I really like putting this in stews and on roasted veggies in the cooler Fall & Winter months. It has a nice earthy, smoky flavor. (JessaCita)
Nutmeg - Good stuff. Definitely more potent than the supermarket brands. (JessaCita)
Onion Powder - Classic onion powder. Nothing of note to report, but it's good. (JessaCita)
Lemon Extract - I love this stuff! I always add a bit to sweet recipes (like muffins, cake, scones, etc.) that call for lemon zest. It adds a little extra lemon flavor that is delicious. (JessaCita)
Orange Extract - Yum! I add this to citrus recipes for an extra punch of orange flavor. (JessaCita)
Orange Peel - Like the lemon peel, this is great to have on hand for when I don't have fresh citrus for zesting. It has a really nice, sweet flavor. (JessaCita)
Pasta Sprinkle - I don't think this tastes any different from Italian seasoning, but I like Italian seasoning, so I like this. :) Like the name says, it's great on pasta. (JessaCita)
Poppy Seed Holland Blue - I might be crazy, but I really do think that these have more flavor than most poppy seeds. They are sweet & nutty, and I love them in muffins & coffee cake. (JessaCita)
Powdered China #1 Ginger - Very good & very strong! Wonderfully spicy & sweet. (JessaCita)
Rosemary - Rosemary is one of my favorite herbs. I can't really taste a difference in the Penzeys rosemary from any other dried rosemary, but it's good. (JessaCita)
Saffron - I actually have never liked saffron in any recipes... I think it tastes like dirt! Again I ask: Am I crazy?! What is it supposed to taste like that makes people go so gaga for it? (JessaCita)
Salt French Grey - Awesome! Very pretty & flavorful. I love sprinkling a little over roasted veggies (especially roasted rosemary potatoes!) as a finishing touch. (JessaCita)
Salt Kosher style flake - Classic Kosher salt. Good stuff. (JessaCita)
Sandwich Sprinkle (aka Crouton Seasoning) - THE BEST SPICE BLEND!!! It is so great on smoked Tofurky sandwiches, and it is the PERFECT crouton spice blend. Cube stale bread, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with Sandwich Sprinkle. Bake until golden brown, and you will have the most perfect croutons in the entire world. I have several friends who think I am a crouton genius, when really all I do is use Sandwich Sprinkle + a shake of Italian seasoning + a little extra black pepper. Amazing! (JessaCita)
Sesame Seed Black - Pretty & tasty! I love sprinkling this over Asian-marinated tofu, and over stirfries. (JessaCita)
Shallots - I have a jar of this & rarely use it. I guess I prefer fresh onions or shallots, but I think these would be good in a French onion dip made with Tofutti sour cream. (JessaCita)
Single Strength Vanilla Extract - Delicious! Very good quality vanilla. (JessaCita)
Spanish Paprika - The best smoked paprika! Fantastic flavor. Even the smell makes me swoon. (JessaCita)
Sweet Curry Powder - The best curry powder! The perfect balance of sweet & spicy. Gorgeous color, too. (JessaCita)
Turmeric - I can't really taste the difference between this turmeric & the one that I buy from the bulk area of my co-op, but it's good. (JessaCita)
Vanilla Beans Madagascar - Great! I love fresh vanilla beans, but don't buy them often because they're so expensive. (JessaCita)
Vanilla Sugar - Delicious! I prefer to make my own vanilla sugar because (again), I like to use less processed, organic sugar & it's cheaper to make my own - but this Penzeys vanilla sugar is the first I ever tried. It's very good. The smell is amazing, too. (JessaCita)
Vietnamese Extra Fancy Cinnamon - My favorite cinnamon, and my definite preference! I am forever spoiled with excellent cinnamon thanks to this. It is sweet, spicy, and very strong. The back of the jar says to use less of this cinnamon than a recipe calls for due to its strength, but I always use the full amount & it's just amazing. All other cinnamons pale in comparison. :) (JessaCita)
Whew! That's all for now. :D
Yeah, I should mention that only vegan spices are listed in the compilation. There are some taco seasonings and others that are not vegan, so be sure to check!
eta: I agree about white pepper! It smells like moth balls.
Good to know! :)
I'm kinda glad to hear that you don't like white pepper, either. It seems to be called for in lots of "fancy" recipes (same with saffron), so I was thinking my taste buds just weren't elegant or classy enough. ;)
No, I think a lot of people don't like it. I kinda remember a discussion somewhere on vw about it. I think sb likes it! I threw out my baggie of it, because it was stinking up everything. Gross.
I live in Canada, but the one time I went to Penzey's I stocked up! LOVED it!
Fresh spices are definitely where its at for great tasting dishes. :)
Basil -California Sweet
Nicely flavoured, sweet
Bay Leaves
I think these have great flavour! Not too expensive, either.
Cloves
Nicely flavoured
Cumin
Excellent. Very flavourful.
Double Strength Vanilla
Nicely flavoured and you use half as much
Nutmeg
This is the whole nutmeg, right? Really flavourful. Will never use ground nutmeg again.
Oregano Mexican
This is my go-to oregano
Paprika Hungarian
This is a nicely flavoured sweet paprika, with a bit of heat.
Penzeys Cinnamon
I had a little sampler of this and liked it, but now have converted to Vietnamese cinnamon. Can't turn back.
Powdered China #1 Ginger
Lovely creamy taste.
Vietnamese Extra Fancy Cinnamon
LOVE it! It is so flavourful. I think it was America's Test Kitchens preferred cinnamon, too.
Other spices that I've bought but not on the list:
Allspice - whole
Nicely flavoured
Cinnamon China Cassia
I like this one with its "bite"
Cocoa Natural High Fat
Nicely flavoured, rich
Vanilla - Mexican (not a bean)
Vanilla with a spicy kick. Like it!
While rummaging in my drawers I noticed I also have Ceylon "True" Cinnamon which I forgot I had... I was smitten with the Vietnamese cinnamon. I should start using this one, too! I also have their double-strength cardamom that I have yet to use.
I also have the Turkish sumac, but not sure what it is supposed to taste like and have yet to really experiment with it. Will update when I know more about it. :)
I'm planning on doing a spice order for friday!
I haven't tried the one from Penzey's yet, but I adore my Aleppo chili flakes (I picked mine up while I was in Turkey and haven't needed to replenish yet). It is more flavourful than spicy and I throw it into anything... I substitute it for all kinds of sipce since I don't like meals that are super spicy. Aleppo has a nice balance... So if anyone wants to try something new, try Aleppo! :)
No, I think a lot of people don't like it. I kinda remember a discussion somewhere on vw about it. I think sb likes it! I threw out my baggie of it, because it was stinking up everything. Gross.
I do like it, but the trick is to get whole white peppercorns and freshly crack them. I've not had the best luck with ground white pepper, and I've heard other people complaining about an "off" taste. I would attribute that to a slow turnover rate and it sitting on shelves for ever and ever. Because white pepper is DELICIOUS.
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