Ring in the New Year with Resetting Your Spice Cabinet: All You Need to Know Here

“Out with the old, in with the new” – isn’t that what New Year’s is all about? But forget resolutions and gym memberships for a second, our very own Halli Fleener from Acme Salt Co wants to talk about a different kind of refresh: your spice cabinet. Yep, that cluttered, chaotic little corner of your kitchen where the dried basil from 2016 hangs out next to five half-empty jars of cinnamon.

As we enter a new year, let’s give our spices a glow-up. After all, those little jars are the backbone of any good meal! A clean, organized spice cabinet will not only inspire you in the kitchen, but it’ll also make sure you’re cooking with fresh flavors (not the remnants of last decade’s taco night). Ready to give it a whirl? Here’s Halli’s guide to tackling that spice stash!

Step 1 | Pull Everything Out

You can’t Marie Kondo your spice cabinet without facing the mess head-on. So, take a deep breath, open up that cabinet, and pull everything out. Spread it all on the counter. If you find something that you swear you didn’t buy (did that jar of smoked paprika sneak in during the night?), don’t worry—it happens to the best of us.

Step 2 | Check Expiration Dates & Smell Test

Here’s the hard truth: spices don’t last forever. Ground spices start to lose their mojo after about two years, while whole spices can last up to three years. If you’re not sure, give it a sniff. A vibrant aroma means it’s still got some life in it; if it smells like dust, it’s time to say goodbye. And remember: when in doubt, throw it out. You deserve fresher flavors in 2025- or really, anytime.

Step 3 | Condense the Duplicates

Found three jars of garlic powder? Two bottles of oregano that are 95% identical? Don’t worry, it’s like spice cabinet bingo—we’ve all been there. Combine those duplicates to save space, but make sure they’re still fresh first! No sense in keeping two stale jars of anything. Condense, combine, and reclaim your cabinet!

And here’s where Acme Superior Salt Mix can really shine. Instead of holding on to separate jars of garlic powder, onion powder, or even celery salt, Acme has the perfect amounts of these essentials already blended in, saving you both time and space. Even for something as specific as garlic butter (where you’d normally reach for that trusty jar of garlic powder), a sprinkle of Acme Superior Salt Mix will give you the best-tasting garlic butter you’ve ever made—no extras needed!

If you still want to keep a few specialty spices for flexibility, we’d recommend sticking with just the basics: maybe some chili powder, cumin, a good curry powder, and your baking spices. Pair those with Acme’s blends, and your spice game will be organized and elevated

Step 4 | Upgrade the Essentials

Some spices are the backbone of almost every recipe: salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and, of course, some quality chili flakes if you like a little kick. If any of these basics have seen better days, treat yourself to a New Year’s upgrade. Trust us, freshly ground black pepper can transform a dish—and make you feel like a true culinary pro. Or you can try Acme’s very special signature flavors, Superior Salt Mix, STK Blend, or BBQ Rub #103 (yes, we are shamelessly plugging ourselves!)

Step 5 | Organize Like a Pro

Now that you’re down to the good stuff, let’s give those spices a home they deserve. Alphabetical order, flavor profiles, cooking frequency—organize in a way that’ll actually work for you. A spice rack, drawer dividers, or even a lazy Susan can turn your cabinet into a masterpiece. And next time you need thyme, you won’t have to excavate half the cabinet to find it!

Step 6 | Set a Reminder to Refresh

Here’s a pro tip that’ll make Future You very happy: set a reminder on your phone or calendar to revisit your spice cabinet next year. Treat it like an annual ritual, like spring cleaning or that one time you actually went to the gym in January. Keeping your spices fresh year-round is the gift that keeps on giving.

Why It Matters

Spices are like the supporting actors in a movie—they might not always get the spotlight, but they make everything better. Cooking with fresh, fragrant spices elevates even the simplest of dishes. Plus, opening a tidy, organized spice cabinet is like a little moment of joy every time you cook. Start the year off with a fresh foundation for flavor, and you’ll be ready to tackle whatever culinary adventures come your way in 2025!

Ready, Set, Spice!

Now that you’ve reset your spice cabinet, it’s time to put those fresh flavors to work! Grab a new recipe, experiment with that STK Blend you just rediscovered, and let your kitchen creations set the tone for a delicious New Year. Chef Bob & Halli are raising a toast (or, let’s be honest, a sprinkle of salt) to you and your revamped spice stash—here’s to many flavorful meals ahead!