INTERNATIONAL: HERBS AND SPICES 10 A: ITALIAN: Tuscan Spice

PART 10 A:  Tuscan

I have learned that there are two kinds of Tuscan spice mixes: one with fresh tomatoes and one not. I am dealing here with the one without fresh tomatoes. I have learned that there are several recipes out there for Tuscan spice mix and not all of them have the same ingredients especially the commercial ones. Here is a list of herbs and spices that could be in a Tuscan spice mix: (below photos) How do you use this on food?  (see bottom of page)

• sage*
• fennel seeds*
• thyme*
• red pepper flakes*
• green pepper flakes
• black peppercorns*
• rosemary*
• sea salt* **
• kosher salt
• regular table salt
• juniper berries
• basil*
• oregano*
• garlic powder*
• Spanish paprika*
• granulated onion*
• sugar
• cayenne pepper
• parsley*
• marjoram*
• cilantro
• savory
• crushed chili peppers
• sun dried tomato*

*The most common have a star beside them.

**Don't let too much of any kind of salt overpower these wonderful flavors.

• Brush chicken, fish or lamb with olive oil, sprinkle generously with seasoning before pan frying, grilling or baking. 
• Adds extra flavour to oven roasted potatoes, tomatoes and carrots. 
• Sprinkle over lamb cutlets or chicken and grill. 
• Mix with orange juice and marinade chicken breasts. 
• Sprinkle over baked tomatoes, crispy bread or bocccocini cheese, drizzle with balsamic and olive oil. 
• Combine with onions, lemon , chopped capsicum, chopped tomatoes and pour over pork and bake. 
• Sprinkle over lamb salad.