5 Easy DIY Spice Blends You Can Make at Home

When it comes to cooking, spices are what bring a dish to life. They turn the ordinary into something memorable, and making your own spice blends is one of the easiest ways to elevate your everyday meals.

I started blending my own spices mainly out of curiosity (and because I make my own incense and already have plenty of spices to hand). I soon realised how much fresher and more balanced homemade blends taste, and I never looked back. Plus, you can tailor them exactly to your liking — less salt, more warmth, or an extra hint of citrus if that’s your thing.

Why Make Your Own Spice Blends?

There are plenty of reasons to give it a go:

• Freshness: 

  Whole spices hold their flavour longer. Grinding them yourself releases those oils and aromas right before you use them.

• No additives: 

  Many commercial mixes include fillers, preservatives, or anti-caking agents.

• Personal taste: 

  You decide the balance — maybe you love more cumin and less chilli.

• Sustainability: 

  Buy spices in bulk and refill your jars — less packaging waste and fewer plastic tubs.

• Cost-effective: 

  A small jar of ready-made spice mix can be pricey. Buying the raw ingredients is often far cheaper in the long run.

• Perfect for gifting: 

  Homemade spice blends make lovely, thoughtful gifts for birthdays, Christmas, or housewarmings. Pair them with a small wooden spoon and a handwritten label for a personal touch.

1. Garam Masala

A classic Indian blend that adds warmth and depth to curries, lentil dishes, or roasted vegetables.

You’ll need:

• 2 tbsp cumin seeds

• 2 tbsp coriander seeds

• 1 tbsp black peppercorns

• 1 tsp cloves

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1 tsp cardamom pods

• ½ tsp grated nutmeg

How to make it:

Lightly toast all the whole spices (except nutmeg) in a dry pan until fragrant — about 2 minutes. Let them cool, then grind to a fine powder. Stir in the nutmeg, and store in an airtight jar for up to 3 months.

2. Za’atar

A fragrant Middle Eastern blend with a tangy, herby kick. Perfect for sprinkling on flatbreads, salads, or roasted veg.

You’ll need:

• 3 tbsp dried thyme or oregano

• 2 tbsp sumac

• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

• ½ tsp sea salt

How to make it:

Mix all ingredients in a small bowl, stirring well. Keep it in a sealed jar in a cool, dark cupboard. Try mixing a teaspoon with olive oil for a quick dip or bread topping.

3. Chinese Five-Spice Powder

Sweet, savoury and aromatic — ideal for marinades, stir-fries, or baked tofu.

You’ll need:

• 2 tbsp star anise

• 1 tbsp cloves

• 1 tbsp cassia or cinnamon bark

• 1 tbsp fennel seeds

• 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns

How to make it:

Toast everything lightly in a dry pan until fragrant. Cool, grind to a fine powder, and store in a sealed jar.

4. All-Purpose House Seasoning

This one’s perfect for everyday cooking—soups, roasted veggies, or even sprinkled over chips.

You’ll need:

• 2 tbsp fine sea salt

• 1 tbsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 1 tbsp onion powder

• 1 tsp dried parsley or mixed herbs

How to make it:

Simply mix everything together and keep it in an airtight jar. You can double or triple the recipe to keep a big batch on hand.

5. Jamaican Jerk Seasoning

Fiery, bold and full of tropical warmth — brilliant on chicken, prawns or grilled vegetables.

You’ll need:

• 1 tbsp allspice

• 1 tbsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• ½ tsp nutmeg

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp chilli flakes (or more for heat)

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 1 tbsp onion powder

• 1 tsp salt

How to make it:

Combine all ingredients in a jar and shake well. For a marinade, mix a tablespoon of the blend with olive oil and lime juice.

You might also like to read my earlier post on Herbs and Spices: Flavour Profiles and How to Combine Them — it’s a great companion piece that helps you understand which flavours work beautifully together when creating your own blends.

Make It Giftable

Homemade spice blends make charming gifts — especially around Christmas, when a jar of something fragrant and handmade feels much more personal than another shop-bought present.

You could fill small glass jars with different blends, tie a strip of kraft paper or linen around the lids, and add handwritten labels.

For an extra touch, include a simple recipe card showing how to use the blend.

They also make lovely stocking fillers or hostess gifts when paired with a small olive oil bottle or a wooden spoon.

Storage Tip

Always keep your spice blends in sealed glass jars away from heat and light. They’ll stay fresh for about three months, though you’ll likely use them up faster.

Final Thoughts

Once you start blending your own spices, it becomes second nature. You’ll find yourself adjusting flavours depending on the season or the meal — perhaps adding orange zest to a winter mix, or a pinch of smoked paprika in summer. It’s a small creative ritual that makes a big difference in the kitchen — and a thoughtful way to share a bit of warmth with others, too.

5 Easy DIY Spice Blends FAQs

1. Can I use ground spices instead of whole?

Yes, though the flavour won’t be quite as vibrant. If using ground spices, skip the toasting step.

2. How long do homemade spice blends last?

Around 3–6 months, depending on freshness. Always store them in airtight containers.

3. What’s the best grinder to use?

A small electric coffee grinder or a pestle and mortar both work well.

4. Can I make salt-free blends?

Absolutely. Just leave out the salt and add it later in cooking.

5. How can I make my spice blends gift-ready?

Use small jars, clear labelling, and maybe even include a note or recipe idea. Presentation matters; it shows you’ve taken the time to make something special.