British Mixed Spice

Summer is flying by and next week we move into September and then Autumn with its rich colours, smells and flavours. I've been thinking ahead, and making a list of dishes I plan to make and checking the pantry to make sure I have everything I need 

One item I use a lot of is Mixed Spice and its very difficult to find in American grocery stores. Not to be confused with Allspice, its a bit like American Pumpkin Spice. This British spice blend has been used in baking for centuries, especially at Christmas. And being a Brit now living in the US, my recipe box if full of recipes using this mix including my Christmas Pudding

So, I make my own blend, with other readily available spices. With both sweet and savory uses, this is a deliciously versatile spice blend, that deserves a place in your cupboard

2 tablespoon quality ground cinnamon
4 teaspoons ground allspice
4 teaspoons ground nutmeg
2 teaspoon ground cloves
2 teaspoon ground ginger
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 1/2 teaspoon ground mace

• Combine all spices in an airtight glass jar
• Keep store in a dark cool place for up to several months.
• Makes about 1/2 cup of Mixed Spice.