When I was learning (read: teaching myself) how to cook, I wouldn't have dared to attempt a meal - even one as simple as tacos - without a recipe and every single ingredient it called for. I've moved far, far from there and my husband now jokes that it'd be OK to follow a recipe every once in a while... :) Even if you aren't as adventurous as I've become, you don't need to rush to the grocer for that chili seasoning or that steak rub if you have a well stocked spice cabinet.
There are a couple of ways to go about making your own seasoning/spice blends. You can find or create recipes for making a large batch to use over time, or you can combine just what you need for a particular meal.
If you are an organizer (I'm not), you might prefer the first option. You can either use a recipe someone else has created, or guess on the proportions yourself. For instance...
My empty "Italian Seasoning" bottle says that it contains basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, marjoram, and garlic powder. I could start out with a tsp. of each and then, since I know I like garlic, basil, and oregano, add another tsp or each of those. If I find after using it the first time that it is lacking something or that the oregano is over-powering, then I can add more of whatever it needs.
If you're not ready to guess, here are a few sites to help you out:
If you don't think you'll need a large batch or are just caught unprepared, you can use the same methods I outlined but combine just enough for one meal. Start out with just a little of each spice/herb and taste before you add more. Better bland than unpalatable. :)
Do you have a favorite homemade seasoning blend to share? What else have you been "Making yourself" lately?
Click here for directions and rules for linking up as well as a list of my previous Make it Yourself Monday posts!
