MRE’s, mac and cheese, powdered potatoes, and canned vegetables are going to get really old, really quick after the SHTF. If you have dedicated spices, herbs, and seasonings in your food preps your group’s morale will be all the better for it. These were all chosen for their wide range of possible uses.
I’m a big fan of “throw it in, how bad could it be” cooking, and with most of these, it would be pretty hard to ruin a meal by adding some. (Which in a survival situation you really don’t want to do.)
SKIP AHEAD
9 Common Spices
When storing spices and herbs, make sure they are in containers that seal tightly and they are stored in dry conditions. This will help to extend their longevity.
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- Chili Powder
- Garlic Powder
- Onion Powder
- Cinnamon (also great on fruit)
- Bay Leaves
- Parsley
- Oregano
Uncommon Spices
These mostly include ingredients mentioned above and are way too high in sodium, but they sure can turn bland food into something great. You have to enjoy the little things.
- Meat Spices ( those mixed spice things that are made for grilling)
- Mrs. Dash
- Cajun Seasoning
- Wasabi Powder (admittedly not everyone will want this, but I usually feel if food is good, making it spicy only makes it better. If the food is not good, well making it spicy still makes it better.)
- Honey (I know, not a spice, but it is one of the best all around food additives for almost anything. Plus it has a virtually unlimited shelf life.)
I would put stocking these spices and ingredients on the Long Term level of the Survival Food Pyramid.
Keep It Fresh!
In a long term survival scenario, those stored spices may get used up quicker than you think.
Plan ahead by growing your own herbs in an outdoor garden or all year long indoors. By doing this you will have a constant supply of herbs to add into your supplies and they will be fresh! To make most herbs last longer they can be dehydrated, ground up, and stored in an airtight container.
What Else?
What other spices and seasonings would you most want to stock to keep your meals flavorful?