Spicy Seasoning Mix

3 tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
3/4 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper

Combine all ingredients. Cover and store in airtight container. Shake before using to blend.

turmeric is interesting, I had read once that it became popular as a substitute for some of the saffron in dishes to cut cost. However I think in a recipe such as yellow rice, where it, salt and onions are the major seasonings that it does add a depth of flavor. It has also been reported it has some health benefits?

To me cilantro and coriander share a slight citrus flavor, more obvious in the seeds. but they are often used together and add two different things to a dish. The coriander needs long cooking or toasting and the cilantro is added at the end. A side note--several years ago I had some cilantro plants on my deck. I was gone for a while and they bolted and got huge!! As I was pulling them out and tossing, I noticed a really lovely aroma--thought later that I had seen rosemary stems soaked and used for kabobs--hmm, think I will let some bolt this summer and give that a try??
enjoy,
Nan

Nan, I haven't discovered the fruity taste of cilantro, lol. I am careful with the amounts I use in my salsas and dips because just a bit to much and I get that soapy taste in my mouth that reminds me of when I was a kid and my mother was setting my verbal skills in the right direction.

I get that soapy taste in my mouth that reminds me of when I was a kid and my mother was setting my verbal skills in the right direction.[/QUOTE]


LOL! how about those that try to burn your tongue off with red hot crushed peppers???? it was actually a dash of paprika - sometimes it was red colored sugar - but could you detect it??? nope - in your mind and all the screaming, crying, and trying to spit it out - it was HOT PEPPER BURNING YOUR MOUTH!
ohhhhh the effects of parental mind control.....................

I liken the flavor of cilantro to the exact way a stink-bug smells...ew-w-w-w but I do like a hint of cilantro, I grow it and have easily over-done a dish by adding too much. It is most def. an acquired taste. I can live with-out it, but I do like it and use it, my family does not share my taste for cilantro.


The stink-bug I am speaking of is a flat-bodied green bug (sometimes they turn brownish) that have a body shape similar to that of a coat-of-arms, and they stink to high heavens if you squish 'em, I guarantee if you know the bug I am speaking of you will agree with me that cilantro tastes like that smell.