List of Spices

Mexican spices are the reason why the flavors of Mexican dishes are mouthwatering and irresistible. These are comfort food, no matter the nationality. Bringing these flavors home is not only possible, they are very easy to make.
Mexican Spices As Standard Ingredients At Home
One of the most common flavors found in Mexican food is garlic. It can either be fresh or in powder form and is one of the most commonly used spices in many Mexican recipes. The truth is, this spice is used all over the world, no matter the culture. The all-time favorite, salsa, along with Taco seasoning and Spanish rice uses a great deal of garlic. The second most commonly used spice is the onion. Again, the onion is a spice that can be used either fresh or in powder form. These two spices are the foundation of any Mexican dish.
Most are familiar with the more common spices that provide that rich and earthy flavor many diners love and crave. These are oregano, cumin and chili. All three spices can be either fresh or dried and powder form. These are also commonly used in Italian and Spanish dishes, two rich cultures that gave influence to Mexican cuisine.
There are more uncommon or spices that are not as well known. These spices are epazote, cinnamon, cloves, anise, cocoa, and surprisingly, cocoa and peanut butter.
Epazote is mainly used in beans and is beneficial for those who suffer from the common “bean ailment” or flatulence. Used it the beans, the one eating the beans will experience a calm digestion rather than discomfort. This spice is also known as the Mexican tea and should only be used sparingly. The downside to this wonderful spice is its potential to poisoning the one eating the dish when it is used in large quantities.
Cinnamon may be considered an Asian spice, but it is also commonly used in Mexico, thanks to the Spanish influence. This, along with cloves and anise can add a new dimension to the dishes.
Cocoa may not be commonly considered as a Mexican spice but its rich and warm flavor that, when used along peanut butter, can make that thick and flavorful sauce served with chicken, the Mole.
Raisins are dried grapes that are used along with some meat dishes as an added sweet and warm flavor.
Having these spices at home is not hard to do. A quick trip to the grocery will soon reveal that most, if not, all of these spices can be found in one section. The best news is that these are most likely found in the homes already. These inexpensive spices are best bought fresh although the dried varieties are just as good.
Those who like to learn how to cook Mexican dishes can simply go online and look up Mexican dishes. There are plenty of Mexican recipes using Mexican spices readily available for free download and printing any time and there are e-courses that anyone can sign up with.