As someone who cooks on a regular basis, I always used to find  myself going through my pantry to grab for just the right spice, only to realize it is the only one I don’t have! Already exasperated because now I have to put off the cooking process, I get more discouraged  when I see how expensive spices are. I decided once and for all to get myself organized and start making my own  mixes. While it is true you can’t get all your exotic spices at a Costco or a Sams, you can get the basics and if you go online, there are many places to buy herbs in bulk. I did an experiment based on some of the blends below and I was dumbfounded at the savings…over $100.00!  Seriously folks, a little bit of planning is all it takes!   I will post more spice recipes as time goes on, but these are a few of my favorites! MEAT SPICE RUB 2 tsps cumin 2tsps chili powder 2 tsps onion powder 2 tsps garlic powder 1 tablespoon salt 1 tsp white pepper 1 tsp dried oregano 1/4 tsp smoked paprika 1/2 cup brown sugar Store together in an airtight container and blend will last for months. *The spice containers in the pictures above, I got at World market and they were quite reasonable. They also make a nice gift for someone who loves to cook. I gave one of my favorite chefs an Egyptian blend called Dukkah, a Curry blend and a Moroccan blend. (Dukkah recipe below) DUKKAH 1/2 cup toasted nuts (I use hazelnuts but you could use almonds, brazil nuts, cashews, your choice) 2 1/2 tablespoons toasted cumin seeds 1 1/2 teaspoons white sesame seeds 1 1/2 teaspoons black sesame seeds 1/4 cup toasted coriander seeds 1 tablespoon mixed peppercorns 1 1/2 teaspoons dried mint 1 teaspoon sea salt Pound in a mortar and pestle or pulse lightly in a food processor. Store in an airtight container for about a month.