How This Book Is Organized

People ask me so many questions about spices and herbs—their usage alone and in combination. What can I do with coriander? What spices go well with lamb? What can I do with all the mint in my garden?

Unlike other cookbooks, which are most often organized by meal order (salads, appetizers, main courses, etc.) or ingredients (chicken, vegetables, etc.), this book is organized by spice and herb groupings or families. In chapter 1, for example, I’ve grouped cumin, coriander, and cardamom together because they complement one another and can be used in similar applications. This way, you can become familiar with the wonderful individual qualities of each spice as well as the ways you can combine them to enrich your dishes. And you’ll learn which spices go well with different foods.

By organizing the book this way, I’m hoping to provide you with a map that you can use as you embark on your own spice journey.

Enjoy!