Spices have been part of cooking for centuries. They add flavour, aroma, and even health benefits to our meals. But not all spices are created equal. The best way to enjoy their full potential is through custom spice blends. These blends combine different spices in just the right amounts to create unique tastes and experiences. At Spice&Easy, we focus on quality herbs, spices, and essential oils. We hand blend in small batches without any additives or preservatives. This approach ensures that every blend is fresh, natural, and full of flavour. It also makes cooking more enjoyable and healthy. Why Choose Custom Spice Blends? Custom spice blends offer several advantages over using single spices or pre-made mixes. First, they allow you to tailor the flavour to your liking. You can adjust the heat, sweetness, or earthiness by changing the proportions. This flexibility is perfect for experimenting with new recipes or adapting traditional dishes. Second, custom blends often use fresher ingredients. When you buy a ready-made mix, it may have been sitting on the shelf for months. Over time, spices lose their aroma and potency. By blending your own or buying from a trusted source like Spice&Easy, you get a fresher product that enhances your cooking. Third, custom blends can be healthier. Many commercial spice mixes contain fillers, preservatives, or artificial flavours. These can reduce the natural benefits of the spices. Hand blending spices ensures you get pure, natural ingredients that support your well-being. Finally, custom blends save time. Instead of measuring out multiple spices for each recipe, you can use a single blend that fits your needs. This convenience makes cooking faster and less stressful. Assorted spices in small bowls ready for blending How to Create Your Own Custom Spice Blends Making your own spice blends is easier than you might think. Start by choosing a base spice that suits your dish. Common bases include cumin, coriander, paprika, or cinnamon. Then add complementary spices to build complexity. Here are some simple steps to follow: Select your spices - Pick 3 to 5 spices that work well together. Measure carefully - Use small amounts at first to avoid overpowering flavours. Mix thoroughly - Combine the spices evenly in a bowl or jar. Test and adjust - Try the blend in a small dish and tweak as needed. Store properly - Keep your blend in an airtight container away from light. You can create blends for different purposes, such as grilling, baking, or seasoning vegetables. Keep notes on your recipes so you can recreate your favourites. If you prefer, you can also explore hand blended spices from experts who craft blends with care and knowledge. This option saves time and guarantees quality. Spice jars arranged neatly on a wooden shelf What Spices Blend Well Together? Knowing which spices complement each other is key to making great blends. Some classic combinations include: Cumin and coriander - Earthy and warm, great for Middle Eastern and Indian dishes. Paprika and garlic powder - Adds smoky and savory notes, perfect for BBQ and roasted foods. Cinnamon and nutmeg - Sweet and spicy, ideal for baking and desserts. Turmeric and black pepper - Enhances anti-inflammatory properties and adds depth. Oregano and thyme - Herbal and fragrant, common in Mediterranean cooking. You can also mix spices from different regions to create fusion blends. For example, combining smoked paprika with cardamom can add an interesting twist to stews or rice dishes. Experimenting with spice ratios is important. Start with small batches and adjust based on taste. Remember that some spices are stronger than others, so use them sparingly. Spice powders in bowls with measuring spoons ready for blending Health Benefits of Using Spice Blends Spices are more than just flavour enhancers. Many have health-promoting properties. When combined in blends, these benefits can multiply. Anti-inflammatory effects - Turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon help reduce inflammation. Antioxidants - Cloves, cinnamon, and oregano contain compounds that fight free radicals. Digestive aid - Fennel, cumin, and coriander support digestion and reduce bloating. Immune support - Garlic, ginger, and black pepper boost the immune system. Blood sugar regulation - Cinnamon and fenugreek may help control blood sugar levels. Using natural, additive-free blends ensures you get these benefits without unwanted chemicals. Adding spice blends to your daily meals is an easy way to improve your diet and overall health. Tips for Using Custom Spice Blends in Your Kitchen To get the most from your custom spice blends, keep these tips in mind: Add spices early - For soups and stews, add blends early to let flavours develop. Use fresh spices - Replace blends every 3-6 months for best aroma and taste. Store correctly - Keep blends in airtight containers, away from heat and light. Pair with the right ingredients - Match blends to the main protein or vegetable for balance. Try dry rubs and marinades - Use blends as rubs on meat or mix with oil for marinades. By following these simple guidelines, you can elevate everyday meals and impress guests with your cooking skills. Custom spice blends open up a world of flavour and health benefits. Whether you make your own or choose expertly crafted hand blended spices , you bring freshness and quality to your kitchen. Enjoy the process of blending, tasting, and discovering new combinations. Your meals will thank you for it.

Herbal teas have been cherished for centuries across cultures for their soothing flavours and natural healing properties. Unlike traditional teas derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, herbal teas are infusions made from a variety of herbs, flowers, roots, and spices. These caffeine-free beverages offer a delightful way to hydrate while supporting overall health and wellness. In this article, we will explore the many ways herbal teas can enhance your wellbeing and provide practical tips on incorporating them into your daily routine. Exploring Herbal Teas Wellness Benefits Herbal teas are more than just comforting drinks; they are packed with compounds that can positively influence your health. Here are some key wellness benefits of herbal teas: Rich in Antioxidants : Many herbal teas contain antioxidants such as flavonoids and polyphenols. These compounds help neutralise harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases. Supports Digestion : Herbs like peppermint, ginger, and chamomile are known to soothe the digestive tract. Drinking these teas can relieve indigestion, bloating, and nausea. Boosts Immune System : Ingredients such as echinacea, elderberry, and hibiscus have immune-boosting properties. Regular consumption may help your body fight off infections more effectively. Promotes Relaxation and Sleep : Herbal teas like lavender and valerian root are natural relaxants. They can reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality without the side effects of medication. Anti-inflammatory Effects : Many herbs used in teas have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation in conditions like arthritis. Incorporating a variety of herbal teas into your diet can provide a broad spectrum of these benefits. For example, starting your day with a ginger tea can energise you and aid digestion, while a chamomile tea before bed can help you unwind. How to Choose and Prepare Herbal Teas for Maximum Benefits To enjoy the full potential of herbal teas wellness benefits, it is important to select high-quality herbs and prepare them correctly. Here are some tips: Choose Organic and Fresh Herbs : Organic herbs are free from pesticides and chemicals, ensuring a purer infusion. Fresh or properly dried herbs retain more of their beneficial compounds. Use the Right Water Temperature : Most herbal teas require boiling water (around 100°C) to extract their flavours and nutrients fully. However, delicate flowers like hibiscus may need slightly cooler water to avoid bitterness. Steep for the Appropriate Time : Steeping time varies depending on the herb. Generally, 5-10 minutes is ideal. Over-steeping can make the tea bitter, while under-steeping may result in a weak brew. Experiment with Blends : Combining herbs can enhance flavour and health effects. For example, mixing lemon balm with peppermint creates a refreshing and calming tea. Avoid Adding Sugar : To keep your tea healthy, avoid sweetening with sugar. Instead, try natural sweeteners like honey or enjoy the natural taste. By following these guidelines, you can make the most of your herbal tea experience and enjoy its wellness benefits daily. Is Herbal Tea Good for Pregnancy? Pregnancy is a special time when many women seek natural ways to support their health. Herbal teas can be a gentle and effective option, but caution is necessary. Some herbs are safe and beneficial during pregnancy, while others may pose risks. Safe Herbal Teas During Pregnancy : - Ginger tea : Helps reduce morning sickness and nausea. - Rooibos tea : Rich in antioxidants and caffeine-free. - Peppermint tea : Eases digestive discomfort and bloating. - Lemon balm tea : Calms anxiety and promotes restful sleep. Herbal Teas to Avoid : - Sage and parsley : May stimulate uterine contractions. - Licorice root : Can affect hormone levels. - Chamomile : Some sources recommend avoiding due to potential risks. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before adding any herbal teas to your pregnancy diet. Drinking moderate amounts of safe herbal teas can provide comfort and support during this important phase. The Role of Herbal Teas in Stress Relief and Mental Wellness In today’s fast-paced world, stress management is crucial for maintaining good health. Herbal teas offer a natural way to calm the mind and body. Certain herbs have been traditionally used to reduce anxiety and improve mood: Lavender : Known for its calming aroma and ability to reduce stress. Chamomile : Helps relax muscles and soothe the nervous system. Lemon balm : Enhances mood and cognitive function. Passionflower : Used to alleviate anxiety and insomnia. Drinking a warm cup of herbal tea during stressful moments can create a mindful pause, helping you regain focus and calm. Incorporating these teas into your evening routine may also improve sleep quality, which is vital for mental health. Practical Tips for Using Herbal Teas for Stress Relief Create a calming tea ritual by brewing your favourite herbal blend in a quiet space. Avoid caffeine-containing teas in the evening to prevent sleep disruption. Combine tea drinking with deep breathing or meditation for enhanced relaxation. By making herbal teas a part of your self-care routine, you can support your mental wellness naturally. Boosting Immunity with Herbal Teas A strong immune system is your body’s first line of defence against illness. Herbal teas can play a supportive role by providing vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds that enhance immune function. Echinacea tea : Widely used to prevent and reduce the duration of colds. Elderberry tea : Contains antioxidants that may reduce flu symptoms. Hibiscus tea : Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Turmeric tea : Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Regular consumption of these teas, especially during cold and flu season, can help keep your immune system resilient. Remember to maintain a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle alongside herbal tea consumption for optimal results. For those interested in exploring a variety of herbal teas, you can find a great selection with detailed descriptions of their benefits at herbal teas health benefits . Embracing Herbal Teas as a Daily Wellness Habit Incorporating herbal teas into your daily life is a simple yet effective way to enhance your health. Whether you seek digestive support, stress relief, immune boosting, or just a comforting ritual, herbal teas offer a natural solution. Start by experimenting with different herbs to find your favourites. Keep a tea journal to note how each blend affects your mood and wellbeing. Over time, you will discover the perfect herbal teas to complement your lifestyle. Remember, the key to enjoying herbal teas is consistency and quality. Choose organic herbs, prepare them mindfully, and savour each cup as a moment of wellness. By embracing herbal teas, you are not only nourishing your body but also cultivating a peaceful and healthful daily ritual. Cheers to your health and happiness with every sip!

Continuing our journey of exploring global cuisines, this month we take a flavorful detour to South Africa to experience the unique and aromatic Cape Malay curry from the vibrant Bo-Kaap district of Cape Town. Known for its rich blend of spices and mild yet deeply flavorful profile, Cape Malay curry is a delicious fusion of history and culture in every bite. Bo-Kaap district in Cape Town, South Africa The History Behind Cape Malay Cuisine Cape Malay cuisine traces its roots back to the 1600s when Dutch settlers brought enslaved people from Indonesia, Malaysia, and East Africa to the Cape Colony. These individuals adapted their traditional recipes using locally available ingredients, often modifying spice levels to suit the European palate. This led to the creation of a uniquely mild yet fragrant curry with a touch of sweetness, setting it apart from Indian curries. Over the centuries, these dishes have remained a staple in South African households, particularly in the Bo-Kaap neighborhood, known for its colorful houses and rich culinary heritage. What Makes Cape Malay Curry Special? Cape Malay curry stands out for its harmonious balance of warm spices and natural sweetness. Unlike fiery curries from India or Thailand, it features a more delicate heat, complemented by spices such as cinnamon, turmeric, and cloves. The use of dried fruits like apricots and bananas adds a natural sweetness, while ingredients like bay leaves and wine vinegar enhance the depth of flavor. This combination results in a rich, aromatic dish that is both comforting and exotic. Traditional Bo-Kaap Cape Malay Curry Recipe Ingredients: 1 1/2 kg boneless lamb shoulder (or chicken, pork, or a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian version) Oil for cooking 4 onions, peeled and chopped 2-4 garlic cloves, peeled and minced 1-piece fresh ginger root, peeled and crushed 2 tablespoons Spice&Easy Bo-Kapp Cape Malay Blend 1/2 tsp turmeric 1/4 tsp salt Black pepper, to taste 2 bay leaves 2 carrots, peeled and diced 250g dried apricots, soaked and drained 2 bananas, peeled and sliced 2 tbsp tomato paste 50ml wine vinegar 250ml meat or vegetable stock 3 tbsp apricot jam 3 tbsp natural yogurt Instructions: Heat oil in a large pot over high heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add ginger, curry powder, and spices, stirring for a minute. Season with salt and black pepper. Add the meat and brown it on all sides. Pour in the vinegar and stock, then add carrots, bay leaves, apricots, and tomato paste. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5 hours (or until the meat is tender). A few minutes before serving, stir in the apricot jam and yogurt. Serve hot with fragrant yellow rice and soft rotis for a truly authentic experience. A Taste of South Africa at Home Bo-Kaap Cape Malay curry is more than just a meal—it’s a story of resilience, adaptation, and cultural fusion. Whether you prefer it with lamb, chicken, or as a vegetarian delight, this dish offers a heartwarming and exotic culinary adventure. Give it a try and bring the vibrant flavors of Cape Town to your kitchen!

Ingredients: 3 cups chopped broccoli florets 1 cauliflower head or 5 cups chopped cauliflower 1 large egg 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon flour 1 1/2 teaspoons Mediterranean seasoning 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided Instructions: Boil cauliflower and broccoli in a pot of water for 5 minutes. Remove and drain well on kitchen paper. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place in a blender with the egg, salt, flour, Med Seasoning and 1 cup of cheese. Pulse until well blended. Pour into a shallow 10.5 by 7 baking pan lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes and then remove it. Top with the rest of the cheese and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Then grill for 2 minutes. Allow it to cool before slicing and serve with marinara. Season with more salt after cooking if needed

Ingredients: 1 head of cauliflower 1 bunch of broccoli 1 Red Pepper 8oz of mushrooms 1 medium onion 1 orange (juice & zest) 3 garlic cloves (minced) ½ inch of ginger(minced) 2 tsp Chinese ‘5’ Spice Blend 3 Tbsp of Tamari (soy sauce) 2 Tbsp honey (agave or maple syrup) 2 Tbsp neutral oil 1 tsp sesame oil optional sesame seeds Instructions: Start out by prepping the vegetables. Cut broccoli and cauliflower in small florets, set aside to blanch. Slice pepper and onions in long strips and quarter the mushrooms. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch cauliflower and broccoli till almost tender. Immediately transfer to a bowl with ice water. In a large skillet or wok heat oil over medium heat and sauté onions for 3 minutes, add the peppers, minced garlic, ginger and Chinese ‘5’ Spice. Continue to cook for 3 minutes. Turn heat to medium high and add the remaining ingredients except broccoli and cauliflower. Once the liquid starts to thicken, around 5 minutes, add the remaining vegetables and mix all together. Garnish with sesame seeds and enjoy.

Thai cuisine is one of the healthiest foods we can eat with many benefits. We already know that many of the herbs and spices used in Thai cooking, such as turmeric, galangal, ginger, coriander, lemongrass, and fresh chillies have immune boosting and disease fighting properties. Turmeric as we know, is packed with antioxidants therefore supporting our immune system and is anti-inflammatory. Galangal and ginger are from the same rhizome family as turmeric. All of these spices are used extensively in Chinese cooking and Ayurvedic medicine. Lemongrass is a wonderfully fragrant, aromatic, lemony herb, also used extensively in Thai cooking with many health benefits! Coriander in seed form or cilantro (fresh), also known as Chinese parsley has been used since ancient times by the Greeks, Romans, Chinese and Indians for healing too. Chillies of course help to keep your heart healthy. Thai food is known for this wonderful blend of spices and herbs, mostly used fresh. Sadly, for us, either a lack of availability or time on our part, we often revert to the dried form of these lovely herbs and spices. However, mixed with some fresh items such as fresh lime juice, scallions, fresh ginger, garlic, chili, and a dash of fish sauce (optional of course) we can make our own paste and produce mouth-watering Thai meals. Whilst for some of us Thai food served in restaurants may have a little too much heat, when we cook at home, we can at least control this and better enjoy the lightness and unique fragrance of Thai cuisine. Try these easy favourite recipes of ours: One Pot Thai Veggie Curry

Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, Chinese cabbage, kohlrabi, spring greens, kale, mustard greens, arugula, and more are all from the group of plants known as cruciferous / brassica or ‘cole crops’, grown in the cool season! All these vegetables, most of them related to cabbage, are referred to as minor vegetables though they are in fact loaded with vitamins A, C, and B6 as well as folic acid and fiber. They're also filled with antioxidants which help your body fight the bad stuff. Choose your own favorite cruciferous veggies and let them be your ‘go to’ veggies at least three times a week. The bonus is they are easy to prepare and low in calories! Try these tips to take cruciferous vegetables from dull to delicious! Roast Your Cruciferous Vegetables! Roasting vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower unlocks their flavor and delivers a crispy outer texture you will begin to crave. To roast, just wash and cut your vegetables into bite-sized pieces, drizzle with olive or avocado oil, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Simply pop them on a baking sheet in single layer and roast at 425°F for 15-20 minutes or until tender and lightly brown. Delicious! Spice Them Up! A great flavor agent like a herb or spice can easily take the flavor of your vegetables up more than a notch! Whether roasting, grilling, sautéing, or steaming, sprinkle on some turmeric, black pepper, rosemary, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or garlic to your vegetables to take their flavor from bland to bright. And as an extra health bonus: herbs and spices deliver helpful phytonutrients, too! Get Saucy! There’s nothing like a great sauce to kick up the deliciousness of your vegetables! To cook or raw cruciferous vegetables, drizzle on your favorite homemade stir-fry sauce, add on an aromatic aioli, or lightly layer with your favorite hot sauce. Or, on raw leafy cruciferous vegetables like Bok choy, collard greens, cabbage, or kale, add a citrus juice (like lime juice or lemon juice) to add some flavor and zip! Add Cruciferous Vegetables to Your Favorite Soup! Add your vegetables to the foods that you already love, like soup! Mix in chopped broccoli into your favorite lentil soup, add in chopped cauliflower to your favorite chili, or blend in some ribbons of kale or cabbage to your next vegetable or bean soup. Try our favourite supper recipe! Cauliflower & Broccoli Stir Fry Ingredients: 1 head of cauliflower 1 bunch of broccoli 1 Red Pepper 8oz of mushrooms 1 medium onion 1 orange (juice & zest) 3 garlic cloves (minced) ½ inch of ginger(minced) 2 tsp Chinese ‘5’ Spice Blend 3 Tbsp of Tamari (soy sauce) 2 Tbsp honey (agave or maple syrup) 2 Tbsp neutral oil 1 tsp sesame oil optional: sesame seeds Instructions: Start out by prepping the vegetables. Cut broccoli and cauliflower in small florets, set aside to blanch. Slice pepper and onions in long strips and quarter the mushrooms. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch cauliflower and broccoli till almost tender. Immediately transfer to a bowl with ice water. In a large skillet or wok heat oil over medium heat and sauté onions for 3 minutes, add the peppers, minced garlic, ginger and Chinese ‘5’ Spice. Continue to cook for 3 minutes. Turn heat to medium high and add the remaining ingredients except broccoli and cauliflower. Once the liquid starts to thicken, around 5 minutes, add the remaining vegetables and mix all together. Garnish with sesame seeds and enjoy. This is our favourite snack for dipping! Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Sticks Ingredients: 3 cups chopped broccoli florets 1 cauliflower head or 5 cups chopped cauliflower 1 large egg 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon flour 1 1/2 teaspoons Mediterranean seasoning 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided Instructions: Boil cauliflower and broccoli in a pot of water for 5 minutes. Remove and drain well on kitchen paper. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place in a blender with the egg, salt, flour, Med Seasoning and 1 cup of cheese. Pulse until well blended. Pour into a shallow 10.5 by 7 baking pan lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes and then remove it. Top with the rest of the cheese and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Then grill for 2 minutes. Allow it to cool before slicing and serve with marinara. Season with more salt after cooking if needed

Dairy free, grain free & refined sugar free Ingredients • 2 cups Almond Flour • 1/4 tsp Himalayan / Sea Salt • 1/4 tsp Gluten Free Baking Powder • 1 tsp Spice&Easy Ceylon Cinnamon • 2 tsp Spice&Easy Organic Ground Ginger • 2 tbsp Organic Maple Syrup • 1 tbsp Natural Date Syrup • 4 tbsp Coconut Oil Directions Preheat oven to 350° F / 180° C or gas mark 4 Prepare baking sheet with parchment paper or non-stick baking mat Blend almond flour, Himalayan / sea salt, baking powder and the Spice&Easy blends Add the natural date syrup and coconut oil to the dry ingredients and blend well until a soft dough forms Roll large teaspoons of dough into small balls Press each with the palm of your hand to flatten it and place on the baking sheet about 1 inch apart Bake for 10 minutes or until the cookies are turning golden brown Cool for 10 minutes

Quick, easy and delicious dal is perfect as a snack, side dish or the main for supper. Ingredients 250g orange / yellow lentils 2 tbsp olive oil 1 large onion, chopped 2 large tsps Spice&Easy Indian Spice Blend 2 large tsps Spice&Easy Essential Garlic Granules 2 large tbsps Spice&Easy Turmeric & Ginger Blend 1 lg tsp Cumin (ground) 2 x 400g tin chopped tomatoes Sea or rock salt & fresh ground black pepper 1 small bag frozen spinach or 1 bunch fresh handful chopped fresh coriander leaves Preparation Rinse lentils well. In a pot cover them with water and bring to a boil. Skim off the froth and simmer for an additional 35-40 minutes until lentils are tender adding more water as needed Meanwhile, heat up the olive oil and gently fry the onions until golden brown. Add all the spices and garlic to the onions and heat gently. Add tomatoes leaving to simmer gently an additional 10 minutes. Add the spinach and simmer another 5 minutes. Add the cooked lentils to the sauce and stir well, adding more water as necessary to loosen the mixture. Bring the mixture to the boil and season, to taste, with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir in the chopped coriander just before serving.

A simple vegetable tagine recipe packed with warm Moroccan flavours rich and aromatic. This dish with the Ras el Hanout spice blend brings both sweet and savoury to the table to make everyone happy! Ingredients ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, more for later 2 medium yellow onions, peeled and chopped 8-10 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed Salt to taste 1 tbsp Ras el Hanout Spice Blend 1 tsp Rose Harissa Spice Blend or 2 tsps. Harissa Paste 2 cups canned whole peeled tomatoes 1 cup dried apricot chopped 1 litre low-sodium vegetable broth (or broth of your choice) 2 cups cooked chickpeas (canned & drained) 1 lemon, juice of Handful fresh parsley leaves 4-6 chicken thighs (optional) Instructions In a large heavy pot or Dutch Oven, heat olive oil over medium heat until just shimmering. Add onions and increase heat to medium-high. Sauté for 5 minutes, tossing regularly. Include chicken thighs in this step for browning. Add garlic and all the chopped veggies. Season with salt and spices. Toss to combine. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes on medium-high heat, mixing regularly with a wooden spoon. Add tomatoes, apricot and broth. Season again with just a small dash of salt. Keep the heat on medium-high and cook for 10 minutes. Then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for another 20 to 25 minutes or until tender, a further 20 minutes if chicken is added. This step can be in a slow cooker on high for 4 hours. Stir in chickpeas and cook another 5 minutes on low heat. Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or harissa spice blend to your liking. Transfer to tagine or serving bowls and top each with a generous drizzle extra virgin olive oil. Serve hot with your favourite bread, couscous, or rice. Enjoy!

At Spice&Easy, we have always loved to travel, to visit new countries, to experience new cultures and especially to taste and enjoy the local cuisine! This is not so easy at the moment during a worldwide pandemic. So why not join us on a culinary adventure, bringing the taste and aromas of the countries you would love to visit and those you have visited and loved, into your home and to share with your family and friends. No passport / safepass needed! The combinations of blending herbs and spices are endless with some mixes working so well that they have come to represent certain cultures and cuisines around the world. We can bring these many and varied blends with their amazing flavours and aromas into our own kitchens to inspire us and to add authenticity and personality to our international dishes! Two of our favourite spice mixes are Ras al Hanout and Harissa (Tabil), we fell in love with them both visiting Morocco and Tunisia. They are the most popular spice blends used in North African dishes from Morocco across Algeria to Tunisia. Ras el Hanout is a blend of up to 40 different spices, it literally means top of the drawer / shop, suggesting that the blend is the best one could buy and was sometimes gifted by the spice merchant to his best customers. Aromatic, warm, sharp, and slightly pungent. It can be rubbed into meat, added to fish, stirred in rice dishes, soups and couscous. It is especially significant for giving the spicy and sweet aromas to the famous Moroccan Tagines. Harissa / Tabil spice mix, one of the most popular spice blends in Tunisian cuisine, it has a warming, earthy flavour and when added to roasted chili peppers along with garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice it becomes the delicious warming Harissa paste we all know. Here are a couple of great recipes Ras el Hanout Roasted Potatoes and Muhammara Dip with Harissa

grain free • dairy free • refined sugar free Lemon Turmeric Energy Balls rich in beautiful citrus aroma enriched with turmeric, and chia seeds. These immune boosting, refined sugar-free energy balls are rich in fibre and plant-based proteins. Perfect for everyday snacking! Ingredients 12 Medjool dates 1 cup old-fashioned gluten-free oats ½ cup almonds 1 tablespoon Spice&Easy Chia seeds 4 tablespoons lemon juice Zest of 3 lemons 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon Spice&Easy Turmeric, Ginger and Black Pepper blend ½ cup shredded coconut or chia seeds for dusting Preparation Remove the pits from dates and soak them in hot water for several minutes. When the dates are softened, drain them and place in food processor. Save the water. Add the other ingredients to a food processor and blend until mixture turns into a dough-like consistency. Add 1 tablespoon of water in which you have soaked the dates if the mixture is too dry. Allow to set for a couple of hours in the refrigerator before rolling With the small spoon scoop the mixture and roll into balls. Roll the balls in shredded coconut and place on the baking sheet. Store energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator until serving