Crafting Seasonal Flavors
For the Holidays and Beyond!
As the harvest season settles in and the holidays draw near, I can’t help but feel a pull toward the warmth and comfort hot cups of tea, warm blankets and cozy home-cooked meals. This time of year, when the air turns crisp and the kitchen fills with the rich aroma of roasting herbs and spices, always feels more than a little magical to me. It’s the time for gathering around the table with family, creating meals that fill our stomachs and warm our hearts. One of my favorite ways to bring those seasonal flavors and aromas into my kitchen is with a homemade all-purpose meat and poultry herb and spice blend that’s perfect for everything from festive holiday roasts to a simple, cozy weeknight meal.
Recently, I’ve been spending more time in my stillroom—a space I hold dear, where I keep all the herbs I’ve grown and dried over the summer. As the holidays approach, it’s become my creative sanctuary, a place where I start crafting recipes and gifts that carry the spirit of the season. Here I craft syrups, herb blends, wreaths, orange pomanders, salves and so much more.
This seasoning blend that I’m talking about today with its warming spices, earthy herbs, and dried mushrooms for a pop of umami, makes a lovely housewarming gift. I’ll often tuck it into a jar, tie it with a bit of twine, and add a handwritten label. There’s something special about giving a little part of my stillroom to others, knowing they’ll be able to bring a touch of this magic to their own kitchens.
When I make this seasoning, I do it all by hand, savoring the process. I start with granulated onion and garlic—my go-to foundation for savory flavor. Then I add dried orange peel for a pop of brightness, along with cinnamon and cardamom to bring in a little warmth. For the herbs, I use marjoram, dill, savory, lovage, sage, rosemary, thyme, and a touch of dried mushrooms for an extra layer of umami—dried for a stronger, richer flavor. I adjust the mix depending on what I feel that day. A pinch of black pepper rounds it all out, and then I use my mortar and pestle to grind everything together. There’s something meditative about the process—it feels like I’m connecting with the earth, with the seasons, and with the meals I’ll share with those I love.
One thing you’ll notice is that I don’t add salt to my blend. I believe in adding it last, once the dish is nearly done. That way, the seasoning has time to shine, and you can adjust the salt to your personal taste in the moment.
The result? A seasoning that adds a touch of magic to every meal, whether it’s poultry, meats, or a hearty soup or stuffing. The act of hand-grinding makes each batch feel personal and special. Feel free to use this recipe as a starting point—adjust the herbs, play with the spices, and create something that reflects the magic of your own kitchen and your own holiday traditions.
I encourage you to take this blend and make it your own—play with the proportions, add your favorite herbs, and create something that feels special in your kitchen. Whether it’s for your holiday table or a simple meal shared with loved ones, this seasoning is just the beginning of what you can craft. I’d love to hear about the herbs and spices that bring warmth and magic to your holiday cooking. Tell me in the comments—what flavors do you cherish during this season?