Spice Up Your Camp Meals With These 8 Essential Spices

Take a look in your camp kitchen box. Do you see any spices? No? Well, put them on the shopping list.

Spices add flavor to your food, transforming bland dishes into delicious meals. Just be careful not to overdo it — follow your recipes. Here are a few spices to use on your next campout:

• Salt: A must-have. Instead of adding it to your plate later, use it while you’re cooking to enhance flavors.

• Black pepper: Another must-have. Tip: Use peppercorns, which you can grind up — they’re more flavorful than ground pepper.

• Cayenne pepper: This robust spice adds a lot of heat. A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly.

• Paprika: It’s ground red bell peppers. Great for adding a little color and seasoning to rice, stews and meats. Sprinkle it on deviled eggs or hummus.

• Chili powder: This is a blend of several spices, usually including cumin, garlic powder, oregano and paprika. It can add a kick to meats, stews, beans and veggies.

• Oregano: This herb goes perfectly with tomato-based dishes, like pizza or spaghetti. You can also combine it with olive oil to marinate meat.

• Cumin: This earthy spice comes from seeds and is best used in savory dishes.

• Cinnamon: It’s a staple for desserts, but it’s also delicious at breakfast when added to oatmeal or pancake batter.