Travel. The word itself brings out such an inner energy and excitement that it’s hard to contain. It’s a word of action implying the possibility of adventure, change, and the addition of spice to an otherwise everyday life. Who doesn’t love the thrill of going to new places, not to mention trying new foods? Yes, that usually is the case for travel abroad, though things are changing dramatically on the American food scene, for the better. Still, travel by car along miles and miles of highway doesn’t do much for the palette, as the same types of bland foods are almost always the only choices. Not to mention, there’s always the issue of finding halal things to eat.
That’s why I travel with spices (and condiments and homemade snacks) every time I go somewhere where I know I’ll have a semblance of a kitchen, whether it’s a cabin or a hotel room where I can plug in a hot pot and make something from the ingredients I bring with me, using my very own spices. Some of my best meals have been in tiny cabin kitchens or with minimal ingredients and food I knew had to be eaten up before vacation’s end.
I found this travel spice kit many years ago at World Market and this diversity of my favorite spices to cook with is quite good. I love that the little tins are labeled so when I run out I can simply refill them. They’re so convenient that I also borrow from them during my regular cooking at home sometimes.
Alternatively, you can get a cute set of stainless steel jars and add the spices you like. It comes with a convenient carrying case, which is brilliant!
Do you cook when you travel? If so, how do you carry what you need? Please share your tips below…