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An organized spice rack can truly elevate the cooking experience. However, sourcing specific spices can sometimes be a challenge, especially when local grocery stores fall short. One example is the Pride of Szeged hot paprika, which has become a staple in my kitchen for enhancing a variety of dishes. This often leads to purchasing spices online when the store can’t meet my needs.
I frequently dream of visiting a charming brick-and-mortar spice shop where I could indulge in a more personal spice shopping experience. However, time constraints often prevent me from acting on that dream. Thankfully, the internet provides the convenience of accessing unique and quality spices without the need for physical shopping. For instance, Penzys offers trial bags of their exclusive spice blends, including the Outrage of Love, which was created as a response to the events of January 6th. Additionally, brands like Spicewalla are making waves with collaborations that feel fresh and impactful, like T-Pain’s recent spice launch benefiting Hurricane Helene relief efforts.
Whether you’re running low on spices or simply seeking new culinary inspiration, let’s explore some of the top destinations for purchasing spices.
Amazon
Amazon has established itself as a one-stop shop, making it possible to find almost anything, spices included. It’s my go-to for restocking everything from vinegar sea salt to piment d’espelette, a versatile Basque chili pepper that enhances my seafood and stews without overwhelming them.
Burlap & Barrel
Burlap & Barrel gained recognition through its appearance on Shark Tank. The company is committed to sourcing directly from small farms, promoting a sustainable approach to spices. By offering products like smoked black cardamom and Caribbean bay leaves, they encourage consumers to support fair practices in the spice trade. Customers can explore various categories, seasonal collaborations like the one with Dr. Jane Goodall, or even set up a subscription for regular spice deliveries.
Diaspora Co.
Diaspora Co. specializes in South Asian spices, offering heirloom varieties primarily from India and Sri Lanka. Founded by Sana Javeri Kadri in 2017, the company emphasizes equitable compensations for its farm partners, paying significantly above market rates in an industry often marred by inequity. This commitment allows consumers to enjoy unique spices while supporting sustainable practices.
Omsom
Omsom provides a solution for anyone looking to spice up their dinners without the hassle. Founded by Vietnamese American women, this brand offers air-dried noodles accompanied by flavorful sauce packets, ensuring meals remain exciting and easy to prepare at home.
Shop Palestine
operated out of Berkeley, California, Shop Palestine is an initiative of the Middle East Children’s Alliance, aiming to support children’s rights in the Middle East. The shop features an array of spices from Palestinian farms, such as za’atar and sumac, and selling these products helps not only MECA’s mission but also preserves local cultural traditions.
Pearl River Mart
Pearl River Mart, based in New York, is a vibrant marketplace that encompasses Asian food products and household items. The store offers an extensive variety of chili crisps from renowned brands and encourages shoppers to explore its recipe section for culinary inspiration.
Penzeys
Penzeys is well-regarded for its diverse array of spices and blends, appealing to food enthusiasts across the country. Established in the 1990s in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, Penzeys offers intriguing labels and flavor combinations specifically designed to enhance everyday meals, from frozen pizzas to sandwiches.
Savory Spice
Savory Spice serves as a comprehensive resource for spice lovers with a collection exceeding 400 spices. It specializes in easy-to-use blends, making it ideal for busy cooks looking to try new recipes without extensive planning.
The Spice House
Since its inception in 1957, The Spice House has been a reliable source for quality spices, offering gift sets that cater to all cooking enthusiasts. Their flatpack options provide a unique alternative for those weary of traditional spice jars.
Spicewalla
Spicewalla stands out for its creative and colorful approach to spices. It offers unique blends for adventurous cooks and frequently collaborates with chefs to produce limited-edition offerings, like a speculoos blend that supports relief efforts for Hurricane Helene.
Williams Sonoma
Though not exclusively a spice retailer, Williams Sonoma features an array of exclusive spice blends and bundles that appeal to gift-givers and home chefs alike. Their curated collections, including premium salts and various cooking rubs, are sure to please anyone looking to elevate their culinary creations.
Source
www.eater.com