Kitchen Essentials!

There are a few items one must have in the kitchen at ALL times, and I thought this would be something really great to blog about. I wanted to start with spices first. It seems when we eat out or go to a friend's for dinner, the first thing we are looking for is the salt shaker. Why don't people season their food?? Especially ground beef. I think it's a common misconception that if you are adding ground beef to something, it doesn't need to be seasoned. I am here to tell you.....IT DOES!!!

First kitchen essential: SEASONED SALT

A combination of several different spices, it is a must have! Most seasoned salts contain salt (of course), garlic, onion, sugar, turmeric and paprika. I am a bit of a snob when it comes to brands and prefer Lawry's but I am sure they are all basically the same. If you are not a person who likes to season or is afraid to season your food, grab a bottle of seasoned salt on your next trip to the grocery store and try it. It's everything you need in one bottle.
I never measure when it comes to seasoning food because it really is about the taste, but if you are a person who likes to measure, then I would try a quarter of a teaspoon (aka "a dash") for every pound of meat. If this is not enough, just add more. It's always easier to add then to try and "un-season".

Want to make your own? (without all the additives and MSG)

• 2 tablespoons salt
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cornstarch

Simply blend it all together and put it in a spice jar to store, in a warm dry place of course.

(Recipe courtesy of food.com)

Check out Lawrys.com for more products and recipies.