A few weeks ago, I had a revelation. It seems silly to say out loud, but most of the foods I make are not very different from each other. I have a set of base ingredients and making small swaps can completely change the outcome of dinner.

What are the base ingredients you have in your home? My friends Kendra and Diane serve lots of rice because their husbands grew up having rice at almost every meal. My friend Anne serves potatoes most nights because her husband rarely knew a meal without potatoes growing up.

 

The base flavors in my home include onion, garlic, oregano, and hot pepper flakes. I can go in so many directions from there.

Mediterranean flavors: Oregano and lemon

Tex/Mex flavors: Oregano, Cumin, and Lime

Indian flavors: Cumin and Coriander

 

You can move from one cuisine to another by swapping out just a few ingredients.

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