DIY Spice Blends: 6 Recipes Better Than Store

By Maya Gonzalez · October 2, 2026

Why Make Your Own?

Homemade spice blends are fresher, cheaper, and customizable compared to store-bought versions. You control the salt, heat level, and quality of ingredients.

6 Essential Blends

1. Garam Masala

2 tbsp coriander + 1 tbsp cumin + 1 tsp cardamom + 1 tsp black pepper + 1/2 tsp cloves + 1 cinnamon stick. Toast and grind. Essential for Indian curries.

2. Taco Seasoning

2 tbsp chili powder + 1 tsp cumin + 1 tsp garlic powder + 1 tsp paprika + 1/2 tsp oregano + 1/4 tsp cayenne. No fillers or MSG.

3. Italian Seasoning

2 tbsp dried basil + 2 tbsp oregano + 1 tbsp rosemary + 1 tbsp thyme + 1 tsp marjoram. Crush between palms to release oils.

4. Za'atar

3 tbsp dried thyme + 2 tbsp sumac + 2 tbsp sesame seeds + 1/2 tsp salt. Great on flatbread, yogurt, and roasted chicken.

5. Chinese Five-Spice

2 tsp cinnamon + 2 tsp star anise + 2 tsp fennel + 1 tsp Sichuan pepper + 1 tsp cloves. Grind fine for marinades and stir-fries.

6. Berbere

4 tbsp chili + 1 tsp ginger + 1/2 tsp fenugreek + 1/2 tsp coriander + 1/4 tsp allspice + pinch of cloves. The soul of Ethiopian cooking.

Storage

Store in airtight jars for up to 6 months. Label with date. Whole-spice blends last longer if you grind only what you need.