Boost Metabolism and Improve Health

There is not a day that goes by that I don’t reach over to the spice rack to add something. Hidden in the jars of our spice racks you will find incredible sources of antioxidants that can boost our metabolism and improve our health. I believe they are a true superfood ally for sailors.

When we are sailing good health is key, not just for safety, but also to enjoy a water-based lifestyle by adding the cosy warmth of cinnamon to your morning oats, the vibrant kick of turmeric in a hearty stew, or the aromatic blend of basil and oregano in a pasta sauce. Spices are not just flavour enhancers – they’re little treasure troves of nutrition.

When you include a variety of spices and herbs in your meals you are supporting your well-being, as well as delighting your tastebuds. So, next time you are cooking, remember that those spices are working hard – making your food taste amazing and helping you stay healthy.

Storing spices onboard will depend largely on the space you have and whilst I have a three-tier spice rack, I also need more space to house the variety of spices that I use regularly. As this is one of the biggest hurdles when it comes to galley organisatio, I share with you in this article how I store and manage my beloved spice collection effectively. We will also explore practical tips for storing spices on a boat and the essential spices you should have to ensure your meals are flavourful, diverse and delicious.

Why Spices Matter

Spices are the heart and soul of any kitchen, transforming simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes. When you’re living on a boat, where fresh produce might be limited, having a well-stocked spice rack can make a world of difference adding depth, complexity, and variety to your meals. They are also a great way to bring a tin of chickpeas or lentils to life when on passage, with minimal effort for maximum flavour.

Challenges of Storing Spices on a Boat

Storing spices on a boat requires careful consideration due to the unique conditions you’ll face. Here are some things to take in consideration when deciding how to store your spices.

Humidity

The sea air is naturally humid, which can cause spices to clump or lose their potency. You can try a grain or two of rice in the spice jar or ziplock bag to prevent this from happening

Space

Boat kitchens, or galleys, are notoriously small, so maximizing space is crucial. Keeping your most used spices nearby makes them easy to use. I have a small bowl which sits neatly wedged in the corner of my galley worktop and it is where I put ginger and garlic, as I use these almost every day in my cooking. In rough seas I store them away, but generally with a slip mat the plastic bowl doesn’t move.

Stability

Your boat is constantly in motion, meaning your spice storage solutions need to be secure to prevent spills and breakages. Spice racks are really handy, but make sure that they are well attached and that the rack is deep enough to hold your spice jars without them spilling over. If you have anything on the counters, I advise slip mats.

Practical Storage Solutions

Here are some tried-and-true methods for storing spices on a boat:

1. Airtight Containers

Airtight containers are your best friend when it comes to preserving the freshness and potency of your spices. Invest in high-quality, airtight jars that can be tightly sealed to keep out moisture. Glass jars with silicone seals are a great option, but make sure they are securely stored to prevent breakage.

2. Magnetic Spice Jars

Magnetic spice jars can be a lifesaver in a small space. These can be attached to the sides of cabinets or the refrigerator, keeping your spices within easy reach while saving precious counter and cupboard space. Ensure the magnets are strong enough to withstand the boat’s motion.

3. Drawer Inserts

If you have a deep drawer in your galley, consider using spice drawer inserts. These keep your spices organized and easy to find, and the drawer itself protects them from light, which can degrade the spices over time.

4. Vertical Spice Racks

Vertical spice racks that attach to walls or the inside of cupboard doors can also be a great space-saving solution. They keep your spices visible and accessible without taking up counter space. They also give a cosy and homely decorative feel to your boat galley. I personally love to have my spices stored this way, easy to use and pretty to look at and inspiring

5. Vacuum-Sealed Bags

For long-term storage or bulk spices, vacuum-sealed bags can keep your spices fresh for an extended period. These bags are particularly useful for storing larger quantities of spices that you can decant into smaller containers as needed. I often find quality of spice can vary from shop to shop, let alone country to country, so if you find a spice that you are particularly fond of then buying in bulk and vacuum sealing is a great option. It also means that there is less packaging as you can decant it straight away into your spice rack.

Essential Spices for a Galley

Now that we’ve covered how to store your spices, let’s talk about which ones you should have on board. Here’s a list of essential spices that will enhance your meals and keep your culinary options open while sailing:

1. Turmeric

Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric is a staple in many vegan dishes. It adds a warm, earthy flavour and a beautiful golden colour to soups, stews, and curries.

2. Cumin

Cumin’s robust, aromatic flavour is a key component in a variety of cuisines, from Indian to Mexican passing through the middle East. It works well in bean dishes, vegetables, and homemade spice blends.

3. Paprika

Whether sweet, smoked, or hot, paprika adds a rich depth to your dishes. Use it in stews, marinades, and even sprinkled on avocado toast for a smoky kick.

4. Coriander

Coriander has a bright, citrusy flavour that can lighten up any dish. It’s fantastic in spice blends, dressings, and sprinkled over vegetables. I generally find I use it along with cumin in curries, middle eastern and north African dishes and even Mexican meals.

5. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is versatile enough to be used in both sweet and Savory dishes. It’s perfect for adding warmth to oatmeal, smoothies, and even Moroccan stews or middle eastern dishes.

6. Ginger

Fresh or ground, ginger brings a zesty, spicy flavour to your cooking. It’s essential for Asian-inspired dishes, baked goods, and can even be used to make a soothing tea with turmeric, black pepper, lemon and honey.

7. Garlic Powder

While fresh garlic is always a favourite, garlic powder is a convenient alternative when space and storage and availability are limited. It’s great for adding a burst of flavour to any dish. I also find, depending on the quality and variety of fresh garlic available, that it works better than fresh in hummus, guacamole, and salad dressings, as fresh garlic can sometimes be overly strong.

8. Chili Flakes

For those who like it hot, chilli flakes are indispensable. They’re perfect for adding a spicy kick to pizzas, pasta, and stir-fries. There are many different varieties with varying strengths so I suggest you bulk buy if you find one you like.

Herbs

1. Basil

Dried basil retains much of its sweet, aromatic flavour and is a great addition to tomato-based dishes, Italian cuisine, and even some Asian recipes.

2. Oregano

Oregano’s robust, slightly bitter flavour is a must-have for Mediterranean and Mexican dishes. It pairs wonderfully with tomatoes, beans, and roasted vegetables.

3. Rosemary

Rosemary is great for focaccia and Mediterranean-style cooking, especially Greek. Its strong, earthy flavour can also enhance soups and stews.

4. Thyme

Dried thyme keeps its warm, slightly peppery taste and is a versatile herb for a variety of dishes. It pairs well with BBQ vegetables, and stews and is a staple in French and Italian cooking.

5. Parsley

Dried parsley retains much of its mild, fresh flavour and is a great addition to soups, stews, and sauces. It can also be used as a garnish to add a touch of colour and subtle flavour to various dishes.

6. Dill

Dried dill preserves its delicate, slightly tangy flavour and is perfect for adding flavour to salads, and yoghurt-based sauces. It’s also a key ingredient in many Eastern European and Scandinavian recipes.

Small Vegan Kitchen Tip

I mix dried parsley, oregano salt and pepper to create a condiment that packs a punch and brightens up a tin of tomatoes for a quick tomato sauce for pasta on passage, or add to a chickpea omelette made from chickpea flour and water or add to mayo for a quick aioli sprinkle over onions.

More Tips for Using Spices on a Boat

1. Rotate Your Stock

Spices lose their potency over time, so it’s important to rotate your stock regularly. Use older spices first and replenish with fresh ones to ensure your dishes are always flavourful.

2. Label Clearly

Clearly label your spice containers to avoid confusion, especially if you’re using non-traditional containers or bags. Include the purchase date if possible, to keep track of freshness.
Only too often have I thought “Of course I will remember what that is”! and actually, I didn’t! As I have had almost no sense of smell for most of my life – nothing to do with Covid – it becomes a guessing game I would rather not play! I suggest you store a permanent marker in your galley utensils drawer, or cutlery drawer, for ease of use.

3. Experiment with Blends

Pre-made spice blends can save time and space. Create your own custom blends based on your favourite cuisines, such as Italian seasoning, curry powder, or taco seasoning. This can streamline your cooking process and ensure consistent flavours. I have written a recipe article about my favourite spice mixes to have on board on my blog and I will put the link at the end of this article.

4. Store in a Cool, Dark Place

Heat and light can degrade spices, so store them in a cool, dark place whenever possible. If your galley gets warm, consider using a cooler or insulated bag for storage.

5. Seal Immediately

Always reseal your spice containers immediately after use to minimize exposure to air and humidity. This will help maintain their flavour and aroma for longer.

As you are well aware, cooking on a boat comes with its own unique set of challenges, but with the right storage solutions and a well-chosen selection of spices, you can create delicious, flavourful meals no matter where your adventures take you. Remember, the key is to keep your spices fresh, organized, and accessible!

Fair winds and Bon Appetit!

Useful Blog Posts by Small Vegan Kitchen:

• Spices:  The Ultimate Food for Sailors
• East to Make Home-Made Spice Blends

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Read Sarah’s Other INSIGHT articles for Noonsite:

• Easy Pressure Cooker Recipes
• How a Pressure Cooker Can Save the Galley Game
• Tips and Tricks for Organzing Your Gallery
• Feeding a Family Onboard

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Read more INSIGHTful articles on Noonsite

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About the Author:

Sarah Powell Fowler is a full-time live-aboard cruiser currently based in Lanzarote for the forthcoming year. She passionately believes in provisioning and preparing nourishing, nutrient-rich, mood-enhancing foods to support the active and emotional adventure of living at sea and crossing an ocean.

All of the recipes and knowledge that she has learnt over the years, come from the experience gained in the galley of her previous Halmatic 30 and current Sigma 41.

Through seminars and workshops she shares, with cruisers and sailors, how it is possible to prepare delicious nutrient-dense food in the smallest of kitchens, with minimal equipment from wherever you are sailing around the world.  You can read more about Sarah at:

• Website: www.smallvegankitchen.com
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahpowellfowler
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/smallvegankitchen.com
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/smallvegankitchen

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The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not reflect the view of Noonsite.com or World Cruising.

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