I didn’t know about all the items on this list!

3. Za’atar Spice Mix

This Middle Eastern spice blend consists of dried thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt. It’s aromatic, tangy, and savory—all in one. Za’atar can be sprinkled on roasted vegetables, mixed with olive oil as a bread dip, or used to season meat. It’s a versatile ingredient that will add complexity and bold flavor to your meals.

4. Miso Paste

While miso is well known in Asian cuisine, it’s often underutilized outside of soups. Miso is a fermented soybean paste that adds deep umami flavor to sauces, dressings, marinades, and even baked goods. A little goes a long way, so it’s worth exploring how to incorporate this ingredient into your everyday dishes.

5. Nutritional Yeast

If you’re looking for a cheesy flavor without the dairy, nutritional yeast is your friend. It’s a deactivated yeast that’s high in vitamins and provides a savory, cheesy taste. Sprinkle it over popcorn, add it to pasta, or mix it into vegan mac and cheese. It’s also great for adding a savory touch to soups or roasted vegetables.

6. Coconut Aminos

A soy sauce alternative made from the sap of coconut trees, coconut aminos is a gluten-free, lower-sodium option that’s great for marinades, stir-fries, or as a dipping sauce. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with Asian-inspired dishes and is an excellent substitute for soy sauce in most recipes.

7. Tahini

This sesame seed paste is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and can add richness and depth to dishes. While tahini is commonly used in hummus, it’s also great in salad dressings, baked goods, or as a drizzle over roasted vegetables. Its creamy texture and nutty flavor make it a versatile ingredient to have on hand.

New and Fun Recipes to Try with These Ingredients

Now that you’re familiar with some of these surprising ingredients, let’s talk about some exciting recipes you can create with them! These dishes are perfect for introducing these new flavors to your kitchen and keeping your meals fresh and interesting.

1. Vegan Meringues Made with Aquafaba

If you’ve ever been frustrated by egg-based meringue recipes, aquafaba is a game changer. With just chickpea brine, sugar, and a little patience, you can whip up light, airy meringues. Use them for a sweet dessert or as a topping for cakes and pies.

2. Black Garlic Pasta

Cook up a simple pasta dish, but with a twist. Sauté black garlic with olive oil, red pepper flakes, and a splash of white wine, then toss it with your favorite pasta. Top it with grated Parmesan (or a vegan cheese) for a deliciously unique take on pasta.

3. Za’atar Roasted Vegetables

Za’atar is the perfect spice for roasted vegetables. Toss your choice of vegetables (think eggplant, zucchini, or cauliflower) with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a generous sprinkle of za’atar. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-30 minutes for a fragrant, flavorful side dish.

4. Miso-Glazed Salmon

Miso paste works wonders as a marinade for fish. Make a simple glaze by mixing miso paste, honey, and soy sauce (or coconut aminos), then brush it onto your salmon fillets. Bake or grill for a dish that’s full of umami flavor. Serve with steamed rice and sautéed greens for a complete meal.

5. Vegan Mac and Cheese with Nutritional Yeast

For a plant-based twist on a comfort food classic, create a creamy sauce using cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic, and lemon juice. Pour over cooked pasta for a rich, cheesy flavor without any dairy. Add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

6. Coconut Aminos Stir-Fry

Coconut aminos is a great soy sauce alternative for stir-fries. Sauté your choice of vegetables and protein (tofu, chicken, or beef) in a pan with garlic, ginger, and a splash of coconut aminos. Serve over rice or noodles for a quick, flavorful meal.

7. Tahini Salad Dressing

Tahini isn’t just for hummus! Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a little water to create a creamy, zesty salad dressing. Pour it over mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or even use it as a dip for raw veggies.

The Joy of Discovery in Cooking

There’s so much more to the world of cooking than meets the eye. Whether you’re using an ingredient you’ve never tried before or discovering a new recipe that utilizes them, it’s always exciting to explore fresh flavors. Each ingredient opens a door to new culinary possibilities, and the best part is—there’s always more to discover!

So, the next time you’re in the grocery store or browsing through a recipe blog, keep an eye out for ingredients you’ve never heard of before. Experiment with them, and see how they transform your cooking. You just might have your own “Oh boy, you better write this one down!” moment. And who knows, your next favorite recipe could be right around the corner. Happy cooking!