Life in the Spiced Lane

We have a habit.  We can't help it.  We are drawn to it like a moth to a candle.  We can't drive by John's Pass unless we stop or think about stopping at The Spice & Tea Exchange (www.spiceandtea.com).  Once over the threshold you are immediately transported to exotic places only your nose could take you. 

They have a large selection of all types of salts, herbs, spices, teas and accessories.  Large jars sit upon the shelf-lined walls, each filled with something that smells divine.  One wall is devoted to flavored and global salts, from Alderwood smoked sea salt to Hawaiian red sea salt to black truffle salt and everything in between.  Flavored salts brighten the taste of foods and are often added at the last minute to "finish" a dish.

Next there are paprikas and peppers of all sorts.  Smoked sweet paprika is my personal favorite that adds richness to meat dishes and smoke to deviled eggs or summer salads.  Our latest pick is Aji Amarillo pepper powder.  Spice blends are also available, many designed by Vik the friendly "Spiceologist".  We recently purchased the Tandoori Roasting Blend and the Smoked BBQ rub. 

The tea wall is a delicious selection of flavors that go way beyond anything you'll find at most stores.  We picked up a Pear Caramel, a Blueberry and a Black Chocolate that smelled absolutely heavenly.  My favorite is the Coconut infused tea which I keep in my desk at work just to take a whiff of when I'm stressed.  A wonderland of flavored sugars add another dimension to teas.  Vik reports that blueberry tea plus cinnamon sugar is like sipping a hot cup of blueberry muffin.

Another selection of all kinds of herbs, spices and mysteries line the last wall in the shop.  There are gift samplers and accessories like tins, mortals and pestles and lots and lots of recipes.  Vik will welcome you like a friend and has plenty of great ideas to spice up your life.