In a previous post I listed some resources for substitutions in recipes. I would add that any recipe can be adapted to your pallet or needs. So how do you do that? First we all have some spices that we like or dislike. If you find a recipe that has a spice that you are not wild about then omit it. The hard part is finding the spice or flavor that you use to replace it. Lemon usually works well with almost anything savory or sweet. Remember the zest has the most oil and therefore the most intense flavor. The juice will add more acid. Here are some additions to try on old standard that will not change the results but just add a little background flavor.
Chocolate Chip cookies - try about 1/2 of teaspoon of good Cinnamon. It is just enough to add a little something different.
Chocolate Frosting - add a little coffee. You can add espresso powder or even some left over coffee from the morning.
Cottage Fries - I add a small amount of cumin. This can be a very overpowering spice but a dash will add a great aromatic essence and a little heat. I also use a dash of chili powder.
Taco Meat if you use a mix, try adding a can of diced tomatoes instead of the water that is called for on the envelope. It makes the mix moist and adds a depth of flavor.
So try something new. It's not world peace but you might just find something great.
