Etiam ut arcu

Etiam ut arcu

Quisque semper nibh ac ex mattis tempus. Nunc vitae ante lacinia, tempus libero sed, vestibulum felis. Sed fermentum elit ac varius tempor. Ut ornare tellus elit. Pellentesque accumsan, sem et pharetra luctus, velit tellus dignissim mauris, at tempus enim metus sed ligula. Nullam nibh tellus, porttitor vel semper eget, tincidunt id ligula. Vivamus accumsan finibus commodo. Nulla sed sapien nec lorem rutrum lacinia ac eget ante. Duis ac ante efficitur, consequat purus eget, viverra metus. Suspendisse et pretium dolor. Pellentesque a nibh gravida, commodo sem non, faucibus ligula. Ut rutrum, ante nec iaculis dignissim, ex dui aliquet velit, et scelerisque purus elit at dolor. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus.

Aliquam vitae magna sollicitudin

Aliquam erat volutpat. Maecenas a turpis vel nisi pretium auctor. Quisque justo dui, vestibulum mollis justo sed, sagittis rutrum orci. Aliquam semper ligula eget nibh egestas tempor semper non turpis. Nunc iaculis erat at odio convallis venenatis. Quisque id scelerisque neque. Suspendisse id risus lectus. Ut congue, mi ac dignissim pharetra, sem risus dapibus justo, nec suscipit sapien sapien eu leo. Ut a lobortis est, et auctor tortor. Aliquam orci nulla, posuere sed dignissim et, finibus sed quam. Praesent scelerisque libero sed ante imperdiet sagittis. Suspendisse scelerisque diam quis egestas porttitor. Nam sollicitudin nulla lacus. Mauris ultricies convallis nisl, eu pretium lacus ullamcorper sed.

Ut a lobortis est

Sed finibus ex eu sollicitudin efficitur. Vestibulum auctor semper ex non tempus. Etiam ut arcu et est imperdiet auctor id sed elit. Proin consectetur faucibus lorem non feugiat. Aliquam vitae magna sollicitudin quam tempor pretium eget id sem. Ut tempor accumsan augue ac aliquam. Fusce ligula turpis, finibus nec ligula et, interdum pretium nisi. Maecenas pharetra nibh sed dolor fermentum mollis. Curabitur vehicula egestas nisl ac imperdiet. Ut nibh ante, maximus ac pretium sit amet, sollicitudin non eros. Nulla condimentum sagittis accumsan.

Etiam ut arcu

Aliquam erat volutpat

Quisque semper nibh ac ex mattis tempus. Nunc vitae ante lacinia, tempus libero sed, vestibulum felis. Sed fermentum elit ac varius tempor. Ut ornare tellus elit. Pellentesque accumsan, sem et pharetra luctus, velit tellus dignissim mauris, at tempus enim metus sed ligula. Nullam nibh tellus, porttitor vel semper eget, tincidunt id ligula. Vivamus accumsan finibus commodo. Nulla sed sapien nec lorem rutrum lacinia ac eget ante. Duis ac ante efficitur, consequat purus eget, viverra metus. Suspendisse et pretium dolor. Pellentesque a nibh gravida, commodo sem non, faucibus ligula. Ut rutrum, ante nec iaculis dignissim, ex dui aliquet velit, et scelerisque purus elit at dolor. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus.

Aliquam vitae magna sollicitudin

Aliquam erat volutpat. Maecenas a turpis vel nisi pretium auctor. Quisque justo dui, vestibulum mollis justo sed, sagittis rutrum orci. Aliquam semper ligula eget nibh egestas tempor semper non turpis. Nunc iaculis erat at odio convallis venenatis. Quisque id scelerisque neque. Suspendisse id risus lectus. Ut congue, mi ac dignissim pharetra, sem risus dapibus justo, nec suscipit sapien sapien eu leo. Ut a lobortis est, et auctor tortor. Aliquam orci nulla, posuere sed dignissim et, finibus sed quam. Praesent scelerisque libero sed ante imperdiet sagittis. Suspendisse scelerisque diam quis egestas porttitor. Nam sollicitudin nulla lacus. Mauris ultricies convallis nisl, eu pretium lacus ullamcorper sed.

Ut a lobortis est

Sed finibus ex eu sollicitudin efficitur. Vestibulum auctor semper ex non tempus. Etiam ut arcu et est imperdiet auctor id sed elit. Proin consectetur faucibus lorem non feugiat. Aliquam vitae magna sollicitudin quam tempor pretium eget id sem. Ut tempor accumsan augue ac aliquam. Fusce ligula turpis, finibus nec ligula et, interdum pretium nisi. Maecenas pharetra nibh sed dolor fermentum mollis. Curabitur vehicula egestas nisl ac imperdiet. Ut nibh ante, maximus ac pretium sit amet, sollicitudin non eros. Nulla condimentum sagittis accumsan.

Etiam ut arcu

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet

Quisque semper nibh ac ex mattis tempus. Nunc vitae ante lacinia, tempus libero sed, vestibulum felis. Sed fermentum elit ac varius tempor. Ut ornare tellus elit. Pellentesque accumsan, sem et pharetra luctus, velit tellus dignissim mauris, at tempus enim metus sed ligula. Nullam nibh tellus, porttitor vel semper eget, tincidunt id ligula. Vivamus accumsan finibus commodo. Nulla sed sapien nec lorem rutrum lacinia ac eget ante. Duis ac ante efficitur, consequat purus eget, viverra metus. Suspendisse et pretium dolor. Pellentesque a nibh gravida, commodo sem non, faucibus ligula. Ut rutrum, ante nec iaculis dignissim, ex dui aliquet velit, et scelerisque purus elit at dolor. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus.

Aliquam vitae magna sollicitudin

Aliquam erat volutpat. Maecenas a turpis vel nisi pretium auctor. Quisque justo dui, vestibulum mollis justo sed, sagittis rutrum orci. Aliquam semper ligula eget nibh egestas tempor semper non turpis. Nunc iaculis erat at odio convallis venenatis. Quisque id scelerisque neque. Suspendisse id risus lectus. Ut congue, mi ac dignissim pharetra, sem risus dapibus justo, nec suscipit sapien sapien eu leo. Ut a lobortis est, et auctor tortor. Aliquam orci nulla, posuere sed dignissim et, finibus sed quam. Praesent scelerisque libero sed ante imperdiet sagittis. Suspendisse scelerisque diam quis egestas porttitor. Nam sollicitudin nulla lacus. Mauris ultricies convallis nisl, eu pretium lacus ullamcorper sed.

Ut a lobortis est

Sed finibus ex eu sollicitudin efficitur. Vestibulum auctor semper ex non tempus. Etiam ut arcu et est imperdiet auctor id sed elit. Proin consectetur faucibus lorem non feugiat. Aliquam vitae magna sollicitudin quam tempor pretium eget id sem. Ut tempor accumsan augue ac aliquam. Fusce ligula turpis, finibus nec ligula et, interdum pretium nisi. Maecenas pharetra nibh sed dolor fermentum mollis. Curabitur vehicula egestas nisl ac imperdiet. Ut nibh ante, maximus ac pretium sit amet, sollicitudin non eros. Nulla condimentum sagittis accumsan.

20 Different Types of Bowls

When you’re setting up your new place, it can be hard to know what type of bowls to get. 

There are so many choices. Do you get a plastic bowl or a ceramic one? What about metal or wood? Are they all the same price? Should I get more than one kind of bowl if I’m going to have them in my house for years and years?

We’ve done the research for you and put together this blog post that answers all these questions. You’ll find out which types of bowls are best for different situations, how much each type costs, and lots more useful information. Check it out.

1. Glass Bowls

Glass bowls are a classic in many kitchens, and for good reason.

They’re made of a sturdy material that won’t crack when you drop it. They can be used to serve food or mix ingredients, or even used as decoration for when the meal is over. Glass bowls look great when paired with other dinnerware, but they also work well by themselves.

Because glass bowls tend to cost more than other types of bowls, make sure you know why you want one before going out and making a purchase. Do you need it for serving? Will you use it often? Or just sometimes? Knowing your answers will help you pick the right glass bowl for your needs. 

2. Ceramic Bowls

If there’s one type of dinnerware that’s always in style, it’s ceramic.

Because they’re so popular, many of us have them lying around our homes right now, whether we bought them or inherited them from somebody else. Ceramic bowls are the perfect addition to your dinnerware set because they come in so many different colors and styles. If you want something traditional, go with white. More of a risk-taker? Pick blue or green. There are ceramics made for just about any taste imaginable.

Ceramic can also be used to serve food, which is why it one of the most common types of bowls out there. Food looks great when displayed on a beautiful plate, but sometimes it looks even better served up in a stylish bowl .

3. Stoneware Bowls

If you’re looking for a heavier kind of bowl, try stoneware bowls. They are made from clay and fired at high temperatures so they can be strong enough to carry even the heaviest of meals. Stoneware is commonly used in restaurants where there are lots of people coming through every day because it’s strong enough to survive many uses without getting chipped or broken. Stoneware bowls also come in a variety of colors, making them easy to match with other dinnerware.

4. Earthenware Bowls

A lot like their stoneware counterparts, earthenware bowls are made from clay that has been heated up rather than glass or porcelain which are cold materials. The crafting process used to make earthenware bowls makes them more porous than other kinds of dishes, which is why they are not ideal for serving food.

That’s not to say that you can’t serve food in an earthenware bowl—you can. Just be aware that if you do drop it, the material will absorb the liquid inside of it. Once the bowl has absorbed everything it can, it might break or chip under normal handling.

5. Fine China Bowls

China is a classic dinnerware type often used by those who have fine china dinner plates . While there are few types of bowls out there as lovely as fine china ones, this type does have some downsides.

For example, these bowls are not microwave-safe, and they can break easily.

It’s also important to note that fine china bowls are made for decoration purposes only—never touch them with your bare hands. The oils in your skin will cause the surface of the bowl to become cloudy over time. Just like with other types of fine dinnerware, always use a coaster under it and handle with care.

6. Bone China Bowls

Another type of fine dish is bone china, which gets its name from its porcelain-like quality rather than any animal bones that might be involved in making it. Bone china has a beautiful finish and because it’s so strong, you won’t have to worry about dropping it or putting it in a microwave or dishwasher. Plus, if you do happen to break one, you won’t have to worry about it absorbing your food or other liquids.

Just like with fine china bowls, bone china does not do well when touched by bare hands. It’s because the material is so delicate and can absorb the oils in your skin. If this happens, you won’t be able to use any sort of cleaner on it because it’ll ruin the finish and could even chip off a piece of the bowl itself.

7. Bamboo Bowls

If ceramic and porcelain aren’t really your thing, bamboo bowls might be more up your alley. They’re made from natural materials, which means they’re usually durable enough to survive heavy-duty use at restaurants or for large catering purposes.

Bamboo bowls are often used for Asian-style foods, but they can be used to serve any kind of food at any type of gathering you might have. Of course, these bowls aren’t microwave-safe so if you do want to reheat your food with one, make sure to do it the old-fashioned way in the oven or stove.

8. Melamine Bowls

Melamine may not be most people’s first choice when thinking about dinnerware materials , but it does have its place in the world. Melamine is considered disposable because it tends to break down during recycling , which means that while most households won’t keep a set of melamine dishes on their shelves, restaurants and catering businesses will always need them as back-up.

One of the biggest benefits of melamine dishes is that they are microwave-safe, so if you’re eating breakfast in a hotel room and all they have are these bowls, you can still heat up your oatmeal or cereal without worrying about overheating the ceramic bowl.

9. Plastic Bowls

Plastic dinnerware has become increasingly popular during the last few decades because it’s durable enough to be used at home but disposable enough for catered events. Plastic dinnerware doesn’t come with any harsh chemicals either, which means that while plenty of people will use plastic bowls for parties or other gatherings, others will opt to use them as their regular dishware . After all, most people aren’t going to be using their favorite dishes every day of their lives.

10. Metal Bowls

One type of material that you might not have guessed to see included in this list is metal. Believe it or not, metal bowls are available for purchase and can be made into just about any shape you want them to be in. They’re often used when there’s a need for a bowl with more durability —think: mixing dough—but they can also be found as decorative pieces . If you choose to use stainless steel bowls as your dinnerware, make sure to wash them by hand and check the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding heating metal dishes (if it can go in the microwave) and using abrasive cleaners on them (some types of silverware will scratch the finish).

11. Soup Bowls

If this wasn’t already obvious enough from all the types of bowls used to serve soup, there are even more bowls available to make the serving process easier. Cereal bowls come in many different shapes and sizes depending on what you need them for, but some manufacturers have fun with it by adding a few grooves along the sides for more convenient cereal grabbing .

Soup can be served in just about any type of bowl. You can even use a mug if it’s soup-related.

12. Salad Bowls

Salad bowls are completely up to your own personal preferences since they’re meant for serving food, not decoration. Some people like using large wooden salad bowls , while others prefer more modern metal salad bowls that offer splash resistance due to their wide mouths. Salad bowls come in all different colors and styles, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a bowl that suits your needs.

13. Rice Bowls

You can find a rice bowl for just about anything, including ramen soup or fried rice. Most of them are large and deep so you can fit plenty of food inside, but some types of bowls resemble plates with smaller openings to keep the contents from spilling out. If you’re using a rice bowl for its cooking abilities, then expect it to be microwave safe as well as dishwasher safe . You only need to use warm water , mild soap, and a soft sponge when cleaning these dishes by hand.

14. Cereal/Mixing Bowls

Cereal/mixing bowls usually come in sets along with other similar-sized bowls because they work best when used with each other. If you’re making a large recipe that requires more than one bowl, then these are ideal to have on hand. Since cereal/mixing bowls are meant for holding food instead of decoration, they aren’t typically dishwasher safe but most are microwave safe , so check with the manufacturer if you have any questions about this.

15. Storage Bowls

If you don’t want your leftovers chilling out in their original containers or pots anymore, storage bowls are perfect for keeping them stored until it’s time to heat them up again. These types of bowls come in many different shapes and sizes so you can easily find something that will hold just what you need without wasting too much space. Unfortunately, not all types of storage bowls are dishwasher safe or microwave safe , so read the description or product manual before buying one if you’re not sure about the dish’s cleaning abilities.

16. Dip Bowls

If you love fresh veggies, fruit, tortilla chips, fish crackers, pretzels, or anything else that tastes good with a dip of some kind then you’ll want to get yourself a few of these. You can even use bowls for holding dips while entertaining guests since they aren’t typically used for food storage anyway . Some types of dipping bowls are only meant for decoration while others are designed for serving purposes as well. They come in many different styles and colors so it shouldn’t be difficult finding one that fits your needs.

17. Candy Bowls

These types of bowls are perfect for candy buffets, Halloween gatherings , and large events because they keep the candy contained in a fun way. Many people will serve small candies inside these containers while larger candies could be placed right on top to make it easier for guests to grab what they want. You can also get creative with filling these types of bowls with other foods since most of them aren’t meant only for holding candy.

18. Pet Bowls

Bowls designed specifically for use by dogs and felines should come with warning labels that state “not food safe” because you don’t want your pets eating out of dishes that contain dangerous chemicals or toxins. Some pet bowls are even made from materials like stainless steel, ceramic, or bamboo that help with odor control, are non-slip , or are dishwasher safe . Since pets can be picky eaters with sensitive stomachs, make sure to buy pet feeding dishes that will allow you to easily mix and match food types inside of them.

19. Decorative Bowls

Since these types of bowls aren’t used for serving purposes and instead feature designs and colors meant for decoration, most decorative bowls aren’t meant for holding food either. If you need a bowl to serve something in but don’t want to worry about it breaking later on down the road due to accidental usage or damage, then consider getting one that’s made from ceramic glass . Glass is extremely durable and since it looks just as beautiful as it does functional, decorative bowls can really tie your dining room together if you’re trying to achieve a certain look.

Bowls made from ceramic glass are also much easier to clean than other types because they don’t feature harsh glazes and aren’t as delicate as other types of dishes. You can dust them off, rinse them out with warm/hot water, and wipe them down with a damp rag without any fear of leaving behind smudges or fingerprints afterwards. Just make sure to check the description before buying one since some decorative bowls only come as single pieces while others may include several inside a set so there won’t be any confusion about what you’re getting.

20. Pasta Bowls

If you love a big plate of spaghetti then pasta bowls should be a staple in your cabinet. These types of dishes are perfect for serving meals from because they have large openings at the top which allow water to drain out easily once your noodles have been cooked. Unfortunately, not every type of pasta bowl is dishwasher safe so always read the description before making a purchase if you’re not familiar with how something is cleaned or maintained.

Coffee Table vs. Ottoman: What’s The Difference?

You want to buy a coffee table or an ottoman, but you’re not sure which one is better for your home.

A coffee table and an ottoman are both furniture items that can be used in the living room, bedroom or even as storage space. 

When deciding between buying a coffee table or an ottoman it all comes down to what kind of furniture piece best suits your needs. If you have lots of guests over then they’ll need somewhere to put their drinks (coffee tables), if you like having people around but don’t like them sitting on your couch then maybe consider getting an ottoman instead.

What Is A Coffee Table?

A coffee table is a piece of furniture and can be used as either a decorative or functional item in your living room. They come in all different shapes and sizes, but the most common shape for a coffee table is round, square or rectangular

Coffee tables can also vary when it comes to their height. Coffee tables may only go up to about 16 inches or could be able to reach up to 40 inches high

People often use these tables when they’re watching TV or when they want somewhere to set down their drinks during a party. This is because they need to avoid putting drinks on their sofas, chairs and love seats as this can cause the fabric and cushioning to become very wet. This will result in stains and damage to your sofa or chair

Coffee tables are also commonly used as a decorative piece of furniture in people’s living rooms. People may use these tables for placing vases with flowers on them as well as other items such as picture frames, candles, etc. When using coffee tables as a decoration piece it all comes down to what type of design or color you want to go with in your living room.

What Is An Ottoman?

An ottoman is another piece of small functional furniture that you can buy, but this one usually goes under a sofa or chair and isn’t very large. This means that it is sort of like an extension to your current furniture pieces

The ottoman is normally used for putting up your feet and then you can use the surface area on top as an additional place to rest things such as drinks or snacks, if you don’t want them on the floor. 

Ottomans do come in different shapes and sizes though so they can be made to perfectly fit around existing pieces of furniture. Some may even have storage space inside so you don’t lose all your extra bits and bobs when guests are over

Ottomans also provide a comfy addition to seating, similar to its other piece of furniture family members (couches).

Coffee Table Pros

  • Coffee tables are very versatile in their function when it comes to their use. You can have this item of furniture just to set your drinks on or even turn them into a tray that you serve dishes on when guests are over.
  • Coffee tables do provide additional storage, but it is usually limited unless you choose a large square-shaped table. They also come in all different shapes and sizes so you can get one that fits nicely with your living room décor.
  • Another pro of the coffee table is the fact they are easy to clean. Many models have an abundance of surface space, which makes cleaning up after meals super easy for all parties involved.

Coffee Table Cons

While coffee tables can be great, they can also cause a number of other problems that you’ll need to consider before making the purchase.

  • One drawback is that it takes up additional space and will take up floor area in your home, which could be used by different pieces of furniture like maybe even an ottoman.
  • Another issue with purchasing a coffee table is that they are very expensive for what they are. There are loads of options out there so if you have a tight budget then this might not be the best piece of furniture for you to buy.
  • You may want to consider an ottoman if you like to put your feet up. If you choose to go this route make sure the height of the table isn’t too high because it could lead to discomfort for those who are sitting on a chair or sofa near to it.

Ottoman Pros

An ottoman is usually considered better than a coffee table because it offers more at a lower price point. Here are some reasons why an ottoman may be the best choice for your furniture needs:

  • The ottoman has storage space, so there’s no need to worry about where you can store things anymore.
  • The surface area allows people to use it as an additional place for drinks and snacks without having to set them on the floor.
  • The ottoman is great for putting your feet up, which can be very helpful after an exhausting day or when you just want to kick back and relax.
  • An ottoman comes in all different shapes and sizes so it’s perfect for working with any existing pieces of furniture. They are also cheaper than coffee tables so if you’re on a budget this might be the best choice for you.

Ottoman Cons

These cons should not be viewed as deal-breakers when choosing between an ottoman vs. a coffee table but they are things that could affect your decision in buying one over another:

  • If you already have other pieces of furniture in your home then an ottoman will take up additional space, which could be used by something else.
  • The ottoman is not as versatile when it comes to its use or with the additional storage space (that’s kind of its function) when compared to a coffee table.
  • It takes up floor area in your home when you place it near your sofa, which can make moving around difficult.

Conclusion

Ottomans offer more value for money at lower prices per square foot than coffee tables, but they’re also not ideal for smaller spaces because they take up additional floor area. They also don’t provide versatility like the functionality of the coffee tables.

For this reason, coffee tables are better suited in homes that have large living areas where both pieces of furniture will really shine. Also, coffee tables are better if you have kids at home because they are harder to tip over and damage due to their weight.

Ottomans are better during the times you just want to put your feet up. If you are on a budget then consider an ottoman because it offers more value for money.

However, if you need additional storage space or versatility then coffee tables are definitely the way to go.

33 Different Types of Spices for Your Kitchen

Cooking is great, but it can be hard to know what spices you should use for each dish. 

Most people just pick the same few go-to spices and never try anything else. This leads to boring recipes that are always the same.

We’ve put together a list of all the different types of spices out there so that you can experiment with new flavors. You’ll never run out of ideas again.

Allspice

Allspice is a type of fruit that is native to the Caribbean. It is the only spice that tastes like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves all at once. It’s used in many different types of cooking because it adds depth to dishes. Allspice can be found in savory dishes, meats, curries, pickles, and much more.

Allspice, which comes from a tree called Pimenta dioic is an evergreen that belongs to the myrtle family. It’s believed this spice was first discovered in Jamaica by Christopher Columbus and he brought it back during his voyage for Spain as they had started using these herbs than on their tables at home.

Anise

Anise has been used since the times of ancient Greece and Rome to flavor countless dishes. In many European countries, Anise is used for cakes, cookies, syrups, and liquors. In some Asian cultures, it is ground with other ingredients to make a sweet-salty paste called Nian Gao that is served at Chinese New Year.

In Iran, a spice mixture called Zereshk is made from ground Anise seeds and saffron. It is added to rice dishes such as polo or shirin polow.

Black Cumin

Black cumin (also known as black seed) is often confused with black pepper because of their similar appearance and taste profile. The only difference between these two spices is their origin. Black cumin is native to the Middle East, India, and Pakistan where it still grows wild today.

Black cumin is used in such dishes as Black Pepper Crab and Black Cumin Sesame Cookies.

Black Pepper

Black pepper comes from a vine in South Asia.

In the middle ages, people thought that black cumin was a cure for all diseases. It’s even said that when many Europeans brought black cumin back home with them after a visit to the Middle East, they would grind it into a powder and then refuse any food that didn’t have this spice on it just because they thought it made everything taste better.

Black pepper is used in all kinds of different dishes, including but not limited to sauces, curries, desserts, and marinades.

Caraway Seed

Caraway seed has been used since ancient times in European countries such as Germany and France to add flavor to baked goods such as rye breads and sauerkraut.

This spice has also been used to flavor stews, cheeses, and braised meats.

Cardamom

Cardamom is a strong spice that is used in the Middle East and Asia. It comes from a plant that originated in South India and Sri Lanka, but now grows all over Southeast Asia. Cardamom has an intense flavor and aroma, which means it’s best to use small quantities at first until you’ve acquired more of a taste for it.

The pods contain small brown seeds that are ground into powder form or left whole depending on the recipe they’re used in. Ground cardamom is often added to sweets such as cakes and cookies while whole cardamom seeds are found in curries and stews.

Carom

Carom (also known as Ajwain or Bishop’s weed) is an annual herb related to parsley. It has a very strong flavor that is much more intense than thyme, caraway, oregano, and other herbs. Carom seeds are often added to Indian cuisine in dishes such as lentil stew and rice pilafs.

Cassia Bark

Cassia bark refers to the dried inner bark of a tree found in Southeast Asia called Cinnamomum cassia. Cassia cinnamon is similar in appearance and taste profile to true cinnamon but it can be distinguished because it contains higher levels of “cassamic” acid – the component that gives cinnamon its flavor. Some people use cassia bark as a cheaper alternative to true cinnamon.

Cayenne

Cayenne pepper gets its name from the capital of French Guiana, Cayenne. It is made from a type of chile that ripens to bright red and eventually dries out.

It’s best known for being very spicy. it usually comes in powder form and is used as a spice in dishes such as chili, eggs, salsa, and curry among others.

Celery Seed

This seed has been cultivated since ancient times by Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans for use as a medicinal herb because it was believed to have antiseptic powers. Today celery seed is used as a flavoring agent in dishes such soups and pickles.

Celery seed has been used since ancient times in European countries such as Germany and France to add flavor to baked goods such as rye breads and sauerkraut. This spice has also been used to flavor stews, cheeses, and braised meats.

Chili Pepper

A chili is a type of pepper that is extremely spicy and can range in color from green to yellow, orange and even red. Chili peppers originate in Central America and South America. They were first cultivated about 7500 years ago and then spread all over the world shortly after that.

Chili peppers come in various shapes such as long, short, wide, narrow, tapered, lobed (cordate), etc… depending on where they are grown and their purpose. For example, jalapenos are a type of chili pepper meant to be used fresh whereas chilis like habaneros are sweeter and richer in flavor because they’re usually dried before use.

Cinnamon

The bark of this tree has been used for centuries to add flavor and as a medicine. It comes from the inner bark of a tree that grows in Sri Lanka and tropical regions worldwide. Cinnamon is often used as an ingredient in Indian cuisine, but it’s also popular in Arabic, Chinese, Italian, French, and Malaysian cuisines.

Cinnamon sticks are made up of a series of rolled layers which gives them their characteristic shape. These “sticks” can be easily broken apart into smaller pieces to use as needed depending on the recipe they’re being used for.

Some popular dishes that use cinnamon include apple pie, spiced pumpkin bread, Indian desserts (such as kheer), and curries.

Clove

This spice gets its name from the Latin word clavus meaning “nail.” Cloves come from the dried flower buds of an evergreen tree that originated in Indonesia and spread throughout Southeast Asia Arabia, Madagascar, India and other countries.

Cloves are used as a spice to flavor dishes such as apple pie, meat stews and curries, and hot spiced wine.

Coriander Seed

This seed comes from the coriander plant – a herb that is related to parsley and dill. Coriander seeds can be found in two colors: light brown or dark brown (they sometimes look like they’re green).

The seeds have an earthy flavor that adds richness to various dishes such as soups, casseroles, egg salad, fish croquette and many others.

Crushed Red Pepper

Crushed red pepper is a powder made from dried, crushed chili peppers. The color can range from bright red to dark red depending on the kind of chilies used and how they were dried. Crushed red pepper flakes may have a variety of spice levels – some being mild while others being hot.

Crushed red pepper is commonly used in Italian cuisine to flavor meat sauces, tomato sauce, and pizza.

Cumin

Cumin seeds come from a flowering plant that’s part of the carrot family and originates in the Mediterranean region as well as North Africa and the Middle East.

Cumin seeds are often crushed before use to release their full flavor which is then added to various Indian dishes such as curries, marinades, or dal (lentils). In addition to using cumin as a spice you can also chew them after a meal to aid in digestion.

Cumin is used in cuisine such as the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.

Curry Powder

This is a blend of spices used as a seasoning for Indian cooking. There are many different types of curry powder with each one having a distinctive flavor depending on the combination of spices used to make it.

For example, some common ingredients found in curry powder include turmeric, coriander, cayenne pepper and fenugreek.

Fennel Seed

These seeds come from an aromatic herb that has been cultivated since ancient times. Today they’re often added to dishes such as Italian sausage or baked goods such as bread.

Fennel seed can be green or brownish-yellow in color and have an anise-like flavor that becomes bitter when chewed raw.

Fenugreek

The name fenugreek comes from the Latin word for “Greek hay.” The plant is native to regions in Europe, North Africa, and Asia. Fenugreek seeds are tiny – about 1/8th or less of an inch long.

They have a bitter flavor making them great when cooked but they may result in a bitter aftertaste when consumed raw especially if too many are used.

Galangal Root Powder

This root comes from a plant in the ginger family which is native to Asia. Galangal has a subtle peppery flavor with hints of lemon and orange so it’s often used in Asian cuisine especially Thai dishes. It can be fresh, dried or powdered for use in various recipes.

Garlic

The garlic bulb is actually made up of individual cloves that are grouped together into sections called “cloves.” Each clove grows on top of the previous one which means that when you grow garlic you’re planting individual parts rather than entire bulbs. The cloves are harvested once they turn paper-like and dry out.

Garlic is good for your health (it contains antioxidants) and the stronger it tastes the more health benefits it provides.

Garlic is commonly used in dishes such as spaghetti sauce, soup, salad dressing and pizza – just to name a few.

Ginger

Ginger is a root with an almost wood-like appearance that has tan skin and flesh beneath. Ginger has been used as medicine since ancient times, even Hippocrates prescribed ginger for various ailments including upset stomachs.

The spice can be consumed in many different forms such as ginger extracts or candies which are available in most supermarkets today.

Common dishes where ginger is used include stir-fry, salads and buns that have been stuffed with the root.

Mace

This spice comes from the seed of the nutmeg fruit where it’s encased within the lacy membrane of the seed (which is why you need to grate nutmegs to release this flavor).

Mace imparts a warm, sweet yet spicy flavor which gives foods like custards, cakes, puddings and curries their signature taste.

Mustard Seeds

This seed comes from a plant in the cabbage family. It’s actually possible to harvest multiple seeds at once because new ones will often grow on top of the old one.

They’re crunchy, pungent and can be used whole or ground into powder. The different colors of mustard seeds come from the different ways they’re dried such as by roasting them over an open flame or leaving them out in the sun.

Mustard seeds are commonly used in dishes such as pickles, curries, chutneys and marinades. They’re also used to make condiments like mustard (both the yellow kind you put on hotdogs as well as the brown kind you eat with pretzels) or horseradish sauce.

Nutmeg

The nutmeg is a seed that grows inside a fruit similar to an apricot which darkens as it ripens. The seed is surrounded by a lacy membrane known as mace and must be grated before using so that its full flavor can be released.

Nutmeg has a spicy, warm flavor that tastes great in both sweet and savory dishes, including eggnog or in holiday baked goods.

Onion Powder

This is a seasoning that comes from ground dehydrated onion flakes. You can rehydrate the powder by mixing it with a small amount of water before adding to recipes.

Onion powder imparts a warm, sweet yet spicy flavor that tastes great in both sweet and savory dishes.

Some popular dishes where you might use onion powder include soups, stews, pasta sauces and casseroles. The most common way to prepare onion powder is by grinding it with salt or other spices such as garlic or pepper for more flavor.

Paprika

This spice comes from grinding dried red peppers and makes a good substitute for chili powder in hot dishes. There are two varieties – sweet paprika which has a slightly sweet taste and hot paprika which is more spicy.

Paprika can be used in everyday cooking or may be rubbed on meats prior to grilling them for added flavor.

Poppy Seeds

These tiny black seeds come from an annual type of flowering plant related to the opium poppy. The seeds are soaked in water before being ground to release their oil which makes them taste fresh and nutty.

Poppy seeds are often used as a crunchy coating sprinkled on top of baked goods or added to buns for flavor.

Pumpkin Spice

The pumpkin spice blend comes from a combination of different spices which are usually cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and allspice.

It’s perfect for the fall when pumpkins are in season but can be served year-round to add warmth to recipes.

Saffron

This spice is the world’s most expensive seasoning. It comes from the saffron crocus flower where it can be found within its red stigmas (the thread-like part that connects the petals).

Saffron has a sweet, delicate aroma that may have certain medicinal properties too. Use just a few strands at a time so you don’t overwhelm food with an overly powerful scent.

Sumac

This tangy, many flavored spice comes from dried berries of the sumac shrub which are typically ground into powder before being used. It has a slightly sour flavor so it’s usually served with meats or vegetables that can soak up its zestiness.

Sumac can be used in place of lemon juice to add a little extra tartness to various dishes.

Turmeric

This bright yellow spice comes from the root of an Indian plant and is often used as a coloring agent. Ground turmeric loses its flavor quickly, so only buy it in small quantities unless you plan on processing your own within a few weeks. Its flavor is earthy and peppery with hints of ginger, cloves, and pepper.

So there you have it – all sorts of spices to choose from depending on what kind of recipes you’re making.

25 Different Types of Mushrooms

Mushrooms are delicious, but there are so many of them. It’s hard to keep track.

With so many different types of mushrooms out there, it can be hard to figure out which ones you should eat and which ones you should avoid.

We’ve put together this list of the most common types of edible mushrooms that you’re likely to come across at your local grocery store or farmers’ market. Now all you have to do is pick some up and start cooking.

#1. Amanita

Amanitas are mushrooms that can be collected and eaten to get high. The most famous for its psychoactive properties, Amanita Muscaria or Fly Agaric has been used by many cultures around the world as both spice and medicine since time immemorial up until modern times.

It was originally discovered in Russia where people have enjoyed eating this fungus with vodka after a day out hunting game birds like pheasant – which would make an excellent pairing if you ask me.

Amanita Muscaria is not only psychoactive but it provides an excellent source of Vitamin B12. These mushrooms are also nutritionally dense, containing high amounts of amino acids and trace minerals like copper.

#2. Beech Mushrooms

Found in North America, Europe, and Asia this type of mushroom is easy to identify due to its smooth surface that looks like a brown saddle on top of the cap. 

It thrives in groups on decaying leaves where the humidity is low and soil composition is rich with potassium salts or calcium carbonates which gives it its mild sweetness that pairs well with more savory flavors such as chicken soup or beef broth. 3. Black Truffles

#3. Black Truffles

Black truffles are a type of mushroom found in Europe and Asia. Often used to flavor dishes such as risotto or pasta, this fungi also has several medicinal properties.

#4. Black Trumpet Mushrooms

These mushrooms have wavy caps with a smooth surface and a fleshy stem which means you can choose whether to slice them up for meat or add the entire thing. These are one of the best edible mushrooms that contain an enzyme called manganese peroxidase which helps protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, similar to how antioxidants work. 

This fungus is commonly used medicinally to treat kidney stones and cancer because it’s rich in selenocysteine which binds heavy metals and protects against urinary tract infections and small intestine damage.

#5. Brown Cap Boletus

Brown cap boletus is a type of mushroom characterized by its red-brown color, round to kidney-shaped caps, and firm flesh. It can be easily found in North America where it grows at the base of pine trees during the fall season. 

These mushrooms are not eaten very often but they contain about 2 grams of protein per 20-gram serving which makes them an excellent food to add to your next meal. 6.

#6. Button Mushrooms

Button mushrooms technically aren’t a variety of boletus because their spores are located on the gills instead of pores, but these fungi can still be used interchangeably for certain dishes such as creamy soups or casseroles with long cooking times.

Button mushrooms may not look like much but they actually contain an impressive amount of minerals and vitamins such as copper, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and vitamin B2 with enough amounts of riboflavin to make any dish shine.

#7. Champignon Mushrooms

Originally from France where it’s known as the French mushroom, this type of fungus is usually found in temperate regions around the world including North America where it grows on rotting trunks or stumps. 

It has a small white cap that starts off spherical then flattens out while growing up to 3 inches wide. Their flavor can be strong when eaten raw so you might want to add a little bit at a time while cooking them for a lighter taste. 

#8. Chanterelle Mushrooms

These mushrooms have a bright yellow or orange color that is commonly used in dishes such as cream-based sauces or fried rice, but the taste of chanterelles also pairs well with soups and stews so they can be used in a variety of ways.

#9. Cremini Mushrooms

Cremini mushrooms are a type of brown cap boletus characterized by their darker colored caps and flesh compared to button mushrooms which have more of a white hue. They’re often mixed into pastas, vegetarian dishes, risottos, soups, and savory pies. 

This fungus contains omega-3 fatty acids that help protect your skin from free radicals fighting inflammation due to allergies and asthma, and this fungus is also a great source of vitamin B2.

#10. Enoki Mushrooms

Enoki mushrooms are known for their long white stems with small caps that grow in clusters at the top. These fungi come from the Far East such as Japan and China where they’re cooked into dishes such as miso soup or served raw on salads. 

One cup contains just 30 calories due to its extremely low-fat content so these mushrooms pack a lot of nutrients per serving.  

#11. Green Amanita

Also known as the Deathcap Mushroom, this poisonous fungus can be found all over with its various parts containing poison.

#12. Hedgehog Mushrooms

Hedgehog mushrooms have soft spiny hairs all over the cap and peel off easily which makes them difficult to eat raw because you can’t slice through those tiny prickles, but don’t worry because their meaty flavor makes up for it. 

These fungi are common in Europe where they’re used to season soups and sauces. They’re also rich in Vitamin D, selenium, riboflavin, and niacin.

#13. Hen of the Woods Mushrooms

Hen of the woods mushrooms is a type of mushroom that looks like wild cuts of meat growing on trees with its thick stalk base and numerous edible smaller caps attached to it. This fungus can be found all over North America and Asia where it’s cooked into dishes such as stir-fries or roasted.

#14. Honey Agaric

Also known as Santa’s Mushroom, this poisonous mushroom may look tasty but don’t eat it because it could make you sick.

#15. Lactarius Indigo

Lactarius indigo is a fungus that’s commonly found in North America where it can be used to season dishes such as soups, stews, omelets, or pasta. 

This fungus has a strong flavor which makes it great when cooking but it also adds color to your dish so keep that in mind before seasoning too much.

#16. King Trumpet Mushrooms

King trumpet mushrooms have thick caps with long stems and are dark brown in color. They’re common in France where they’re used in dishes like cream sauces or stuffed into puff pastry pockets then baked. 

This fungus contains an impressive amount of potassium that helps regulate your fluids and minerals along with vitamin B2.

#17. Milk Mushroom

Milk mushrooms are known for their thick, white caps that grow in clusters at the top. These fungi are common in North America and Europe where it’s cooked into dishes such as omelets, soups, or stir-fries. 

One cup contains just 25 calories so don’t be afraid to add this fungus to your recipes even if you’re on a diet. This fungi also packs vitamin B2, niacin, riboflavin, zinc, and selenium which helps regulate your fluids while protecting your immune system.

#18. Morel Mushrooms

Morel mushrooms have spongy caps with ridges that look like brain shapes or honeycomb. These fungi can be found in North America and Europe where it’s used to season dishes such as soups, stews, risottos, omelets, or sautéed into healthy grilled cheese sandwiches. 

This fungus contains manganese that helps the body convert fat into energy, copper for strong bones and teeth, potassium for fluid regulation, riboflavin to protect your immune system from diseases, and selenium for a healthy nervous system.

#19. Oyster Mushroom

Also known as Pleurotus ostreatus or P. flabellatus, oyster mushrooms are flat with white caps growing at the top of long dark stems . 

These fungi have a mild flavor which makes them great ingredients to use in stir-fries or to season omelets, pastas, or soups. This fungus is rich in potassium for fluid regulation and niacin to protect your immune system from infections.

#20. Porcini Mushrooms

Porcini mushrooms have a brown cap with short white stems that grow off the side of it. These fungi are common in Italy where they’re used as toppings on pizzas or as ingredients in risottos, pasta dishes, soups, and salads. 

One cup contains 56 calories so porcini mushrooms may just be one of those guilt-free snacks you can eat all day long. These fungi also contain vitamin B2 for a healthy nervous system and selenium which helps regulate your fluids while protecting your immune system.

#21. Portobello Mushrooms

Portobello mushrooms have dark brown caps with short white stems growing off the side of them. These fungi are common in Italy where they’re used as toppings on pizzas or as ingredients in risottos, pasta dishes, or salads. This fungus is low in calories so you can eat these all day long without worrying about your diet. 

Portobello mushrooms also contain potassium for fluid regulation, riboflavin to protect your immune system from diseases, and selenium which helps regulate your fluids while protecting your immune system.

#22. Russula

Russula is a type of mushroom that’s very common throughout North America where they’re often cooked into Italian dishes like pizza or pasta sauce. This fungus is low in calories and rich in potassium which helps you regulate your fluids, especially following a workout.

#23. Shiitake Mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms have dark brown caps with white or black stems that grow off the side of them. These fungi are common in Asia where it’s served as toppings on pizzas or eaten in stir-fries, pasta dishes, or salads. 

One cup contains just 40 calories so don’t be afraid to add this to your recipes when you need extra flavor without the guilt. This fungi also contains an impressive amount of manganese for strong bones and teeth along with vitamin B2 for a healthy nervous system while protecting your immune system too.      

#24. Toad Stool

Toad Stools are bright orange with white caps covered in slimy lumps. These fungi are poisonous to eat even if cooked but the poisonous part can be removed by simply boiling them for 5-10 minutes. This fungus is not common throughout North America so use caution when attempting to harvest it yourself. 

However, these fungi are common in China where they’re used as toppings on pizzas or eaten in stir-fries, pasta dishes, or salads. You should know that this fungus contains vitamin B2 which helps protect your immune system from infections.  

#25. Medicinal Mushrooms

There’s a wide variety of medicinal mushrooms available for you to choose from depending on what you need them to do for your body. For instance, these fungi can be used to treat fatigue, high cholesterol, reduce wrinkles and acne, and even blood sugar problems. 

No matter what you choose to do with these mushrooms, they’re low in calories and rich in fiber which will leave you feeling full for a longer period of time.

Now that we’ve gone over the different types of mushrooms out there, hopefully, we can add these valuable nutrition sources into our daily cooking routines so we can feel better and live happier lives. Remember, it’s impossible to overdose on mushrooms so go ahead and add them every day and enjoy their impressive nutritional values.    

20 Different Types of Living Spaces and Living Areas

Most people don’t realize that there are different types of living spaces and living areas in a house.

Living rooms, family rooms, den, bedrooms and kitchens all have the same purpose but serve very specific functions. Knowing which space is right for you can make your home more functional and comfortable without breaking the bank.

Here’s an in-depth breakdown on what each type of living area is used for so you can decide which one is best for your needs.

1. Formal Living Room

This is the classic living room – used for formal entertaining.

Typically off the foyer on one side of the house, it often features bay windows or French doors that open to a porch or patio.

The living room itself will have three pieces of furniture decorating it: a sofa, an armchair and perhaps a coffee table. Sometimes there might be an additional chair near the fireplace if there’s room for it near the sofa.

The formal living room can be quite small compared to larger family rooms but serves its purpose as the space people see when entering your home through its grand entranceway.

A formal living room can also double as a home office with occasional use by guests and daily use by – we know someone who has their treadmill in here.

2. Family Room

This is the core of the house – used for everyday living and family activities such as watching TV, reading, music practice and games.

It’s informal yet practical – it usually has one to three pieces of furniture: a sofa, armchair and perhaps a coffee table or ottoman. Sometimes there might be an additional chair near the fireplace if there’s room for it near the sofa.

Since this space is often right off the kitchen, you can bet that most people spend their time here at night – eating dinner and unwinding with some TV before going to bed. That said, many families also like to eat breakfast in front of the TV (or on their laptops) because they don’t want to disturb the rest of the family.

To avoid looking like a TV junkie, try placing other items in this area, such as bookcases filled with books and magazines. Basically, anything that shows you do more than just watch TV is great for this space.

3. Great Room

This room can be used to describe two spaces: either one large open space or many smaller rooms all connected to one another by high arches.

The first type of great room has no walls between itself and other common areas – it’s essentially an open floor plan. The second type of great room typically has thin but decorative arches where perhaps there was once a wall – these thin arches allow for visual connectivity sightlines throughout the house without compromising privacy.

Formal living rooms often double as home libraries because of the high-bookcases that adorn their walls, but these two spaces are not always interchangeable.

When looking at homes you want to live in or through your realtor, look for a house with multiple doorways and arches so you can be sure it’s a great room. If the use is unclear, ask what type of space it is – open concept or great room?

4. Home Library

A place where books are dedicated decor elements and items such as bookends, lamps, and comfortable seating encourages people to settle down for an afternoon read. This space usually has a combination of shelves and cabinets filled with books along one wall while other common areas have built-in bookshelves, usually opposite windows or doors.

Home libraries are great spaces that can be either small or large – the size of the room doesn’t matter that much, what matters is how many books you have and if they’re stacked on shelves or cabinets (open shelving is best).

5. Sunroom

A space where you can feel like you’re outside without actually being so. Think of it as an extension of your indoor family room with all the same furniture plus some additional accents such as potted plants and ceiling fans to give it a genuine outdoor feel.

Sunrooms come in both true glass enclosures and screens which allow for natural ventilation but still protect from pesky mosquitoes too. This means that if there’s no AC, they’ll stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

There’s a direct connection between charm and character – they’re related concepts even though one is positive and the other negative.

6. Home Bar

A great place to entertain with built-in cabinets or a dedicated area for all your favorite alcoholic items such as bottles, glasses, and trays. This is also a space where most people keep their top-shelf liquor because it’s usually out of view from any visitors who might be coming over.

In terms of size, this can range from very small (a cabinet or two) to large with custom shelving, glass refrigerator doors and extra counter space for more than just mixing drinks. An ideal location is against an exterior wall so that it’s easy to carry drinks out to the pool area for guests.

7. Game Room

It doesn’t necessarily have to be designed for this purpose alone, but you’ll want some sort of dedicated space in your house where you can play pool, darts or any number of other games. Pool tables are traditional and expected so don’t feel like you need one unless there’s room. A ping pong table is an up-and-coming substitute though not yet socially acceptable in all circles. This type of game room usually has very limited seating because most players stand while they play.

8. Man Cave (or Lair)

A personal retreat complete with TVs, gaming systems, great lighting and comfy furniture; essentially a man cave is a more personalized den designed solely with men in mind. As for location, this space can be located on the ground floor or up in the attic depending on its purpose.

A man cave has to have some sort of entertainment system – whether it’s a massive TV with all the satellite channels imaginable plus surround sound stereo, or nothing but an empty room with comfy couches and chairs. Either way, it’s important that this space fulfill your every comfort need…it’s your own personal retreat.

9. Craft Room

A place where you can store all your crafting supplies including fabric, stuffing materials, yarns, and anything else needed for hobbies such as scrapbooking, painting/drawing, or knitting/sewing. This type of space has built-in work tables and sometimes cabinets, but there’s usually a lot of open wall space for hanging up tools and projects in progress.

This type of craft room is best designed to be efficient and fully stocked at all times so that projects can come to life without much effort.

10. Home Theater

A dedicated area where the walls are covered with cinema-themed posters while surround sound speakers line the room giving it a true theater feel from floor to ceiling. This type of space is sometimes smaller because many home theaters also double as family rooms. In other words, you’ll need to find an alternative way to watch your favorite TV shows when people want to watch them too…spend some time brainstorm ways around this design obstacle otherwise you’ll have to build a second room just for family television viewing.

11. Wine Cellar

A must-have for any beer aficionado, this cellar is designed to keep your favorite alcoholic beverages cool and ready for consumption. Some wine cellars are built large enough to house an entire refrigerator or another type of unit which can be padlocked so that kids and mischievous guests don’t get into the goods.

12. Home Office Space

An area where you can work from home including a desk with ample lighting and storage space for all your supplies. This room is usually by far the coolest in any house because unless it’s very small, most people want their office away from the living spaces…and thus out of sight too.

13. Rec Room

A nice option if you have the room is to incorporate all or some of these spaces into one large area that can be used for many purposes. A home theater is great in this type of space because it’s almost like having another family room…just with way more cool stuff.

14. Open Concept Design Space

This type of space takes up an entire floor; usually the basement (or ground floor) but sometimes even two floors. The rooms are designed as separate spaces which lead off a central hub where entertainment centers and other types of furniture groupings can be set up according to your needs. 

*Note: This design layout only works if there are multiple floors/levels; otherwise you’ll spend more time back and forth than using all the different rooms.

15. Landing

This is a room that’s usually located right beside the front door so it can be used to store shoes and other outdoor-type supplies. Unfortunately, most homes don’t do this and end up with too small closets or not enough room in the mudroom (entryway) for this purpose.

16. Reading Room

A space where you can curl up in a comfy chair and enjoy your favorite book; sometimes called an adult library because of its tranquil atmosphere. Lots of windows are needed for natural lighting but if you’re concerned about privacy, you could always cover them with curtains or blinds during the day…just make sure they in plenty of light when open.

17. Home Gym

An area where you can work out and stay fit. A treadmill, elliptical trainer, and an assortment of weight equipment usually line the walls along with mirrors for self-observation and built-in speakers so your favorite exercise music motivates you throughout your workout session. 

*Note: Most of these home gyms are small since they’re located in homes that don’t have a lot of extra space or especially ones on the upper levels; if this is the case, make sure there’s enough ceiling height to rig up proper lighting as well as storage options…and leave some open wall space too.

18. Finished Basement

A special type of basement renovation includes carpeting and drywall (usually new paint). Some basements need to be completely finished for a multitude of reasons including making them habitable areas in case of an emergency. This is the most expensive type of basement renovation so you’ll need a good amount of space and budget.

19. Mudroom/Entryway

This very useful room is located near the front door; sometimes called a mudroom because you can keep your dirty shoes here (after taking them off) which prevents other parts of the house from getting messy or tracked up…it’s basically like having another hallway, only smaller and with hooks and cubbies for keeping supplies close at hand (in other words, it’s perfect for small spaces.). *Note: If you don’t have enough room for this area, make sure to create some space for just a bench or shoe rack near the front door so you don’t track dirt through your home.

20. Kids Play Rooms

This room is where children play but since it’s usually located on the main floor, parents can keep an eye out to make sure no one gets hurt. Ideal playroom design includes carpeting (to muffle noise), lots of natural lighting and insulation between floors to reduce sound transfer. Also, if you live in a two-story house, be sure there are no obstructions above this space…you wouldn’t want any accidents caused by falling shelves or furniture, now would you?.

31 Different Types of Herbs (Ultimate List)

People love to cook, but they don’t know what herbs and spices can be used in it.

There are so many different types of herbs and spices that you could use in your cooking, but most people do not know them all. This is a problem because you might miss out on some great-tasting recipes by using the wrong herbs or spices.

To solve this problem we have created this in depth-guide with pictures and descriptions of each type of herb and spice. It’s really easy to read through this list when you’re looking for inspiration for new meals. Now go make something yummy.

1. Basil

Basil comes from the Greek word for royale and it is a very popular herb in Italian cooking. You will find it in several types of pasta dishes and pesto sauces.

If you would like to add a bit of anise flavor to a meal, a few leaves of basil could be just what you need.

2. Dill

Dill is one of those herbs that are great when used sparingly but can overpower your dish if you add too much. On the plus side, dill has been linked to preventing cancer. This makes it a super-healthy addition to any meal.

3. Thyme

This is another Mediterranean herb that is frequently found in recipes like soups or meats (i.e. chicken).

4. Rosemary

Rosemary is a great spice to use if you are going for a savory-spicy taste that pairs well with a lot of foods. You can even use it on some types of bread, but the bread has to be olive bread or cheesy bread – plain white bread doesn’t go well with rosemary.

5. Parsley

Parsley is one of those herbs that people love to add to recipes because it gives your meal an added bit of color and flavor. It goes well with almost any dish (and side dish) too. This makes parsley really versatile in the kitchen – not like other herbs which are more specific in their uses (like rosemary).

6. Marjoram

Marjoram is a very sweet herb that can be used in many ways – just like oregano. It goes well with meats and pasta dishes, but also with vegetables or cheeses too.

7. Oregano

Oregano is the best spice to give your Italian food an added bit of spice. This one pair really well with olive oil and onions, which you will discover when you look at our next type of herb: garlic. We’ll discuss how these two go together later on in this article.

8. Tarragon

Tarragon doesn’t have a super-strong flavor, but it has a taste all on its own. You are going to find tarragon in a variety of French recipes, but it’s also a popular herb in Russia too.

9. Chives

Chives are a great herb to add to your meal because they have a light oniony flavor that pairs well with cheeses and meats. However, let me recommend that you only use chives when you cook an egg dish, never when you make pancakes or something else sweet.

10. Sorrel

Sorrel is another sour-tasting herb from France that can be used when you make leafy dishes like salad or soup. The trick with sorrel is to add it right before serving the food so that its taste doesn’t get lost in the mix.

11. Savory

Savory is a great herb for any meat dish – unless you are going for a sweet taste. This will typically have a strong, peppery flavor that might be too much if you’re using it with other types of foods.

12. Mint

Mint has always been one of those herbs that people love to cook with because it provides an interesting flavor that goes well with both sweet and savory dishes. In fact, there are some people who use mint as their main blend when they make mojitos.

13. Bay leaves

Bay leaves give your food a very strong, earthy taste. You don’t need a lot of bay leaves either – just one or two should be enough to the right amount of flavor.

14. Cilantro

Cilantro is one of those herbs that you either love or hate. There isn’t really a middle-ground with cilantro because it has such a strong, powerful flavor. If you don’t like cilantro then I suggest not using this herb at all. Some dishes where cilantro is commonly used include Mexican food and salad.

15. Chervil

Chervil tastes somewhat like anise and parsley mixed together, which makes it another great addition to soups and salads. It’s also good for making homemade mayonnaise (which we will talk about in a future article).

16. Anise

Anise might be the most versatile herb on this list. This spice can go well with sweet dishes (like cookies) and savory dishes (like meats). It also goes well with wine or liqueur drinks.

17. Coriander

Coriander is the herb that straddles between being an herb and a spice. This was originally grown in the Mediterranean region, but it’s grown all over the world too now. You can use coriander to top off soups or salads, but you can also use it inside of rice dishes AND even some desserts. It has an incredibly strong flavor so you don’t need much of it at all either. Just remember to only add the seeds and not the root part because that would be too overpowering even for seasoned chefs.

18. Sage

Sage is one of the herbs that you should only use in moderation because it can easily overpower a dish, including meats. If you want to add a mild amount of sage flavor to your food then I recommend putting a few leaves into a tea bag and putting that inside of your boiling water.

19. Fennel

Fennel is similar to cilantro in the sense that people either love it or hate it. This herb has a strong anise flavor, which you will find is different from licorice. If you want to add fennel to your food then I highly recommend combining it with another herb (like basil) as well as some citrus fruits like orange or lemon.

20. Lavender

Lavender might be my favorite herb on this list. People use lavender buds both for their taste and smell – and they make amazing teas too. But there’s also a sweet side of lavender: bakers and chefs love using these flowers when they make desserts like cupcakes or pastries. It gives whatever you’re cooking a rich flavor that you can’t beat.

21. Chamomile

Chamomile is another herb that you can use to make tea because it’s known for being calming and soothing. Chamomile flowers are also very beautiful, which makes them stand out among the other herbs. You can find chamomile in teas quite often.

22. Culantro

Culantro is a popular herb to use in Mexican foods and other Central American cuisines. It has the flavor of both coriander and cilantro which makes it unique. However, there’s one downside: it doesn’t hold up well when you cook with it. That means that if you’re trying to make a soup or stew then culantro might not be the best choice because too much heat will release its flavor and could ruin your food.

23. Curry Leaves

You can think of curry leaves as similar to bay leaves – only much more pleasant tasting. These herbs are large and give off a strong scent, so they do better when cooked inside of dishes than added at the end like most other types of spices. They’re a great addition to soups and broths, but they also work well with rice dishes too.

24. Peppermint

Peppermint is a great herb to use when you want something with a little more of a kick, so it’s perfect for people who like mint chocolate chip ice cream. But unlike using crunchy candy pieces, peppermint has the stronger flavor of pepper which makes it extremely refreshing.

25. Stevia

If you’re looking for a natural alternative to sugar, then I recommend learning more about stevia. You can add this herb directly into your drinks or add it inside of baked goods.

26. Lemongrass

Lemongrass is an herb that you find most often inside Asian dishes, but it also works well with other cuisine types. It’s milder than the rest of the herbs on this list, so I recommend using lemongrass to season your meats or soups.

27. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a very citrusy herb, so it’s another great choice for seasoning meat or using it as an ingredient in savory dishes. If you want to use this herb more often then I recommend keeping it around as a house plant.

28. Myrtle

Myrtle is another herb that you should only use in moderation because it has one of the strongest flavors on this list. I wouldn’t recommend using myrtle in anything other than savory dishes, so consider adding it to your meats or even making a meat rub for homemade jerky.

29. Lemon Verbena

This is another citrusy herb that tastes and smells just like lemons. It’s a plant that you might be able to find in your local health food store, but it does well when grown indoors too.

30. Cicely

Cicely is a weird herb because it’s both sweet and spicy – making it ideal for dishes where you want both flavors. The taste and smell of this herb remind me of the Chinese five-spice powder, which means you could use cicely in stir fry dishes or even your favorite soup recipes.

31. Spearmint

This herb gets a similar treatment to peppermint because of its strength and freshness. Spearmint is best used in desserts or drinks where you want that minty flavor – but I recommend using it with other herbs too.

28 Different Types of Brown Flowers

Few people realize the variety of beautiful flowers that are available in brown.

Brown is one of the most underrated colors when it comes to flowers, but you’re missing out if you don’t include them in your garden.

We’ve put together a list of our favorite brown flower options for your garden this spring and summer. Take a look at these stunning plants that will add beauty to any landscape or garden.

1. Angel Amber Kiss Pansy

The angel amber kiss pansy is a stunning, shade-loving annual that’s great for containers. Unique colors are why these are our favorites.

Flowers of the angel amber kiss pansies are dark maroon at base with an oily layer of yellow which glitters in sunlight, hence its name ‘angel’ and ‘amber’. It flowers during summer season to bring cheer in your garden. You can grow them in hanging baskets or in large pots so that they hang down and look beautiful. They require little care and training, and need protection from severe cold climates. Angel amber doesn’t like extreme heat so keep them away from summer sun too.

2. Bearded Irises

The bearded iris with brown flowers is the most popular of all irises grown in gardens.

Flowers are soft lavender to deep purple with dark beards, sometimes appearing black. Colored areas are lighter on the inside and fading to golden yellow within, giving it a ‘gilded’ appearance. The plant itself thrives in well-drained soil in moist conditions with full or partial sun exposure. They grow up to 30 inches tall and require minimal maintenance. During summer season, their stems produce foliage which remain green even after flowering.

3. Daylilies

There’s nothing like having day lilies in your garden which can bring charm when they bloom.

The plant produces flowers that range from white through yellows into golds. Depending upon the variety, height ranges between 16 to 36 inches. It requires well-drained soil with lots of sunlight for best results.

4. Columbines

Columbine flowers are attractive and come in shades of brown, purple, red, yellow and blue colors which appear in spring season.

This perennial plant grows up to 30 inches tall in full bloom, while the foliage remain low around 6 inches in height. Flowers range from red through pinkish orange to bright yellow in color depending upon the variety. They can be planted along pathways or within borders where they will come out once in awhile to break the pattern. Not only do they look beautiful when they blossom, but also leaves grow into ferns that add texture to your garden’s landscaping plan during summer season when flowers are not blooming.

5. Oriental Poppy

Oriental poppies with brownish flower petals are one of the best flower for your garden this spring season.

Flowers of oriental poppies are orange to soft scarlet with black-red center, similar to that of a paper cutout. They bloom during late spring or early summer depending upon the variety and require full sun exposure with well-drained soil for best results. Their height can reach up to 2 feet when fully bloomed, which makes them an excellent choice for borders or cutting gardens where they can be mixed with other flowers or plants to give your yard some color.

6. Japanese Arisaema

These are unique, beautiful and come in shades of brown. The leaves of Japanese arisaema comes in various shapes. They have a long green stem with two lobes at the base which are covered by cream to light green leaves. Flowers are usually pink or white with an maroon center that appears during spring season. They offer unique beauty to your garden but require moist soil that drains well if planted in pots or directly into ground.

7. Dahlia

Dahlia flowers also come in brown color and they can add some charm to your garden this spring season.

Most people plant dahlias for their showy flowers rather than foliage, but there is one variety (named ‘Bonica which offers both equally impressive flower and foliage. The flowers are dark chocolate brown which is eye-popping when they flower in summer season. Their height (depending on the variety) ranges between 2 to 6 feet tall, making them wonderful when planted along borders or in garden beds where their blooms can be seen from all around.

8. Flowering Tobacco

As the name suggests, these flowers come in shades of brown that looks like smoke (hence the name). They bloom enough throughout summer season that you can enjoy their beauty with each passing day.

Flowering tobacco plants produce striking blooms with five petals and throats lined with red lines. They range in colors from white through soft yellow to deep orange depending upon the variety/type grown, whereas foliage is green and grows low at around 12 inches in height during summer season. Blooms can last up to 2 weeks when in full bloom and make a great cut flower, which is why they are often grown for arrangements inside homes these days.

9. Tropical Hibiscus

Hibiscus flowers come in shades of pink, red, orange and yellow colors which add charm to your garden this spring season.

Tropical hibiscus plants produce blooms that range from white through vivid pinks to blood red depending upon the variety. The leaves grow high up at around 6 feet tall whereas flowers appear on shorter stalks at around 4 feet tall during summer season. Depending upon the variety, their height varies between 30 cm and two feet tall. They are primarily grown for their summer flowers which range in colors, size and shape (depending upon the variety).

10. Boat Orchids

Boat orchids come with unusual shapes that can be described as curved or boat-shaped. Once you start growing them inside your home during winter season, you will discover why they are called so.

11. Cattleya Velutina

Cattleya velutina flowers are brownish green or white with green veins that can be regarded as work of art due to its beauty.

This variety is also called “velvet cattleya” because the flower’s base color is brownish green, which makes it appear dark unless you look at them closely. The inner side of their petals are white whereas the tips have a pinkish tinge, making them look stunning when viewed from close quarters. They can grow up to 2 feet tall within one year if planted outdoors during summer season and require bright sunlight so they don’t become lanky or spind by mid-season. Indoor plants are best grown during winter season so they can flower within first year.

12. Antler Orchids

Antler orchids are rare varieties that bloom with unusual colors ranging from white to light brown through deep red colors.

These flowers have various unique features starting from their color, which ranges from pale yellow (almost resembling vanilla) to dark chocolate brown and even bright red like a radish (depending upon the variety). Their spindly stem and tall leaves make them look like antlers of an animal; hence their name. They require bright sunlight for healthy growth because low lighting makes them become short and lanky inside homes as well as outdoors during summer season. Indoor plants should be watered sparingly as growing them in a pot indoors for a long time will cause root rot.

13. Charlie Brown Rose

Charlie brown rose flowers come in light pink colors/shades and have a peachy scent that refreshes your mood instantly.

Charlie brown roses don’t have itchy thorns while their blooms open up into small sized, single layer petals with round center. The stems are green in color whereas leaves resemble those of mint plants, which add to their attractiveness when grown outside during summer season. These varieties produce amazing soft-scented blooms from late spring through early fall that refresh your mood immediately after being inhaled (in fact you can easily notice the difference between normal and Charlie Brown roses at our local flower markets). Therefore, they make perfect indoor flowers during off season because they don’t require more than 6 hours of bright sunlight (if grown indoors).

14. Graham Thomas Austin Rose

Graham Thomas Austin rose flowers come with clusters of single layer petals that are dark pink in color and grow up to 6 feet tall.

This variety of roses can be grown outdoors only during summer season because they need full sunlight for healthy growth during this period. The blooms open up into beautiful pale pink or white, single layer petals having darker shades at the edges. They have thick stems which help them remain strong so there is no need to use stakes when growing these varieties. These varieties don’t require much care if planted outdoors since cold weather enhances their beauty by making blooms fuller and healthier (they prefer cooler nights). Their fragrance makes them a great choice for outdoor gardens where you can enjoy their amazing scent while walking past them during summer season.

15. Blanket Flower

Blanket flower is also known as Gaillardia due to its yellow/orange colored petals with black centers.

Gaillardia or blanket flowers are mostly grown for their bright daisy like blooms that come in shades of yellow, orange and red (in some varieties). Their thick stems can grow up to 2 feet tall whereas leaves resemble those of daisies; hence the name “blanket flower”. Their outer petals have dark central patterns that attract butterflies while their stem tips look attractive when used in floral arrangements. They should be watered on a regular basis so they don’t wilt or dry up. Otherwise, these varieties require little care and can be grown without using of staking.

16. Echibeckia ‘Summerina Brown’

Echibeckia ‘Summerina Brown’ flowers have clusters of single layer petals that are dark brown in color and attract butterflies with their subtle scent.

This variety of flowers comes with petals having deep brown colors (almost resembling black) with centers looking like charcoal when compared to other varieties (this is one amazing feature they possess). Their growth rate is slow; therefore they should be watered on a regular basis so they don’t wilt or lose their natural beauty too quickly. They can flourish well in bright sunlight but keeping them under direct sunlight for hours can harm them (so it’s better to place them under partial sunlight).

17. Absalon Tulip

Absalon tulips are rare variety of tulips having dark orange/red colored petals with black centers lining up like stripes on the petals.

Absalon tulips come in shades of orange, red and yellow (depending upon the colors present in their native environment) but have black center lines that look stunning when grown outside during summer season. This variety comes with single layer petals growing 1-2 inches wide, which makes them ideal for both indoor and outdoor gardens where you want to display their amazing beauty for a long period of time. These varieties require little care that doesn’t include staking because they are strong enough to grow without any help.

18. Hardy Mums

Hardy mums are grown for their small/medium sized flowers with single layer petals surrounding yellow centers, but the red petals are also widely available in some varieties.

Hardy mums come in both double and single layer petals that can be surrounded by yellow or dark orange colored chrysanthemum-like centers (depending upon the variety of mum you plant). Hardy mums have tough leaves that stay green throughout winter season, making them ideal for planting during early autumn so they remain healthy until late winter season. These types of flowers require partial sunlight so they don’t wilt quickly under direct sunlight. Watering on a regular basis will keep them healthy throughout the summer season.

19. Chocolate Cosmos

Chocolate cosmos are ideal varieties for planting during early autumn so they grow well in cold weather and don’t fall prey to any insect/pest attack (due to their strong smell).

Chocolate cosmos come with petals that have dark chocolate color when fully blossomed (hence the name) although, their stems remain brownish in color until late winter when the flowers stay alive but wilt away after few days. They need little care; therefore you should place them in full sunlight since direct sunlight can cause their leaves to turn yellow/brown quickly. You can make soil rich in organic matter before planting this variety of flower so they remain healthy throughout the summer season (by absorbing nutrients directly from the soil, which will cause them to grow without any problem).

20. Carolina Allspice

Carolina allspice flowers are small in size with yellow petals having brown spots on it (like chili), but they also come with light pink or orange centers that attract bees and butterflies.

The Carolina allspic flower has single layer petals surrounding yellow colored centers, but there are some varieties available where you can find both dark red and orange colored center lines. This variety is best suited for planting during early spring season because of their tender growth nature; however you should still avoid water logging or overwatering them since they don’t prefer these conditions at all. It’s better to place them under partial sunlight or indirect sunlight to keep them healthy throughout the summer season.

21. Chocolate Orchid

Chocolate orchid flowers are usually large in size, but they come with deep brown petals surrounding chocolate brown colored centers that attract bees during early summer months.

The chocolate orchids have large single layer petals surrounding deep chocolate sized colored chrysanthemum-like center lines (that can be yellow in color), which makes them ideal for planting during late winter/early spring so they become well established before summers start to hit your region hard. You will need to provide these plants with full or partial sunlight throughout hot weather because keeping them under direct sunlight for hours can damage their tender leaves by causing them to lose water quickly through evaporation.

22. Cattleya Angerei

Cattleya angerei is one of the most beautiful types of flowers with petals that have white to pale pink colors surrounding dark red colored centers.

The Cattleya angerei flower has single layer petals surrounding deep red colored chrysanthemum-like center lines, which makes them ideal for planting during late spring because they grow well in warm weather conditions only. When you want to plant this variety of flower, then make sure you do it under indirect sunlight or partial sunlight because they don’t tolerate direct exposure very well. Although these plants produce good amount of light energy during summer seasons but their tender leaves will fall prey to insects/pests if exposed directly hot sun rays for hours at a stretch.

23. Golden Leafed-Orchid

Golden leafed-orchids are ideal varieties for planting in late spring because they grow well during the season (and remain healthy), but you can’t plant them during summer seasons because of their tender growth nature.

The golden leafed-orchid has single layer petals surrounding deep brown colored “center lines”, which makes them ideal for planting under partial sunlight or indirect sunlight to keep them healthy throughout hot weather (if planted under direct sunlight, then their leaves will start turning yellow and wilt away quickly). These plants need fertile soil with organic matter mixed in it to absorb nutrients directly from the soil so that they remain healthy throughout the summer season.

24. Aloe-Leafed Cymbidium

Aloe-leafed cymbidium flowers come with either white/green (or pinkish) petals surrounding chocolate brown colored centers, but there different varieties available for planting that you can choose from.

The Aloe-leafed cymbidium has single layer petals surrounding dark brown center lines, which makes them ideal for planting under full sunlight or partial sunlight to get maximum light exposure (and keep them healthy throughout the summer season). If you live in warm temperate regions then it’s better to plant these types of flower during late spring so they become well established before hot weather starts damaging their tender leaves and buds). It’s best to provide these plants with fertile soil and proper irrigation because lack of proper soil nutrients and water can damage their delicate leaves.

25. Cymbidium Hybrids

Cymbidium hybrids flowers are usually yellow with dark center lines surrounded white to pale pink colored petals, but there different types available for planting that you can choose from according to your preferences.

The Cymbidium hybrids have single layer petals surrounding brown/chocolate sized chrysanthemum-like center lines, which makes them ideal for planting in late spring/summer seasons so they become well established in warm weather before the arrival of cold winter months in your region (as a result of this, they’ll remain healthy throughout hot weather). It’s best to provide these plants with partial sunlight or indirect sunlight because direct exposure under hot sun rays can damage their tender leaves and buds quickly over a period of time. You should also make sure that you plant them in fertile soil with proper irrigation to keep the plant healthy throughout summer seasons because lack of proper soil nutrients and water can damage their delicate growth nature rapidly.

26. Deer-Antlered Orchid

Deer-antlered orchids are favorite varieties for planting because they do well in warm spring/summer seasons, but it’s not possible to plant them during winter months because the tender leaves will fall prey to insects/pests if temperatures drop below freezing point (and can even be damaged by frost).

The deer-antlered orchid has single layer petals surrounding dark chocolate colored “center lines”, which makes them ideal for planting under full sunlight or partial sunlight to get maximum light exposure (and keep them healthy throughout the summer season). These plants need fertile soil with organic matter mixed in it to absorb nutrients directly from the soil so that they remain healthy during hot weather.

27. Lady Banks Rose

Lady banks rose can be planted during late spring/summer seasons because they’ll grow well during these months, but you cannot plant them before this time period because if tender green growth is exposed directly to sun rays then their leaves will start turning yellow and wilt away quickly due to lack of moisture & nutrients.

The lady banks rose has deep dark brown petals surrounding white colored “center lines”, which makes them ideal for planting under full sunlight or partial sunlight to get maximum light exposure (and keep them healthy throughout the summer season). These plants need fertile soil with organic matter mixed in it to absorb nutrients directly from the soil so that they remain healthy during hot weather.

28. Red Trillium

Red trillium flowers are usually pink with dark brownish red colored “center lines”, which makes them ideal for planting under full sunlight or partial sunlight to get maximum light exposure (and keep them healthy throughout the summer season). These plants need fertile garden soil with organic matter mixed in it, but you must make sure that there’s enough moisture in the soil for this plant to grow properly because lack of proper moisture can damage their delicate buds over a period of time.