Spice Rack Must-Haves

1. Coriander (seeds or ground) This fragrant parsley relative is used in Mediterranean, Indian, Latin American and Asian cuisines. It can balance flavours if you add too much of another ingredient. Rumour Has It: Rids body of toxins like aluminum and mercury.

2. Rosemary (dried leaves) A member of the mint family with hints of lemon and pine, this herb blends well with Italian seasonings. Rumour Has It: Treats headaches.

3. Bay Leaves (whole) This herb’s dried leaves have a sharp aroma and slightly bitter taste. Add to stews and soups (remember to remove before serving). Rumour Has It: Aids digestion.

4. Basil (dried leaves) A mix of clove and anise-like aroma with a faint peppery-mint taste. Popular in Italian cuisine, basil is ideal in long, slow cooking. Rumour Has It: Fights migraines and insomnia.

5. Paprika (ground) Available sweet, smoked or hot, this red pepper powder is cropping up in trendy recipes for its warm, sweet undertones. Makes an excellent meat rub. Rumour Has It: Fights viruses.

6. Cinnamon (sticks or ground) The versatile inner bark of the cinnamon tree is particularly good in chili and curry as well as baking and hot drinks. Rumour Has It: Lowers blood-sugar and cholesterol levels.

7. Thyme (dried leaves) The mouth-freshening lemon aroma of this herb is familiar in French cuisine. Delicious when mixed with broth for sautéing chicken. Rumour Has It: Relieves respiratory problems.

8. Nutmeg (whole or ground) This sweet seed gives food a nutty flavour. Freshly grate whole nutmeg or use the powder to take desserts, sweet potatoes and cabbage to another level. Rumour Has It: Combats muscle pain.

9. Saffron (threads) Crush strands just before use to preserve potency. A little goes a long way to add rich colour, strong perfume and a subtle, bitter honey-like taste. Popular in Spanish cuisine. Rumour Has It: Helps combat depression.

10. Chilies (whole or flakes) There are more than 200 varieties of dried hot peppers. Use whole chilies to infuse (and remove later) or chili flakes for an instant punch of heat. Rumour Has It: Elevates mood.

11. Ginger (dried) This adds a wonderful zing to food. Next time you make French toast, add a pinch to the egg and milk mixture for a flavour kick. Rumour Has It: Soothes an upset stomach.

12. Oregano (dried leaves) This robust, sharp spice is common to Mediterranean foods, but is very versatile. Rumour Has It: Rich in antioxidants.

13. Cloves (whole) This versatile dried flower bud is peppery with sweet undertones. Use with ham, rice and mulled drinks. Rumour Has It: Increases blood circulation.

14. Fennel (seeds) Fennel has a delicate, almost licorice-like flavour. A standard ingredient in Italian sausage and the herb blend Herbes de Provence, it’s a perfect complement to meats. Rumour Has It: Reduces stomach cramps.

15. Cayenne Pepper (ground) This hot, pungent powder is a mix of several chilies. Use this Cajun staple to turn up the heat a little bit. Rumour Has It: Accelerates metabolism.