The Most Underrated Spices You Need in Your Kitchen

21. Maras Pepper: The Balanced Heat from Turkey

Maras pepper (or Marash pepper) is a flavorful, medium-heat chili flake from Turkey that brings more than just spice—it offers fruity, slightly smoky notes and a naturally oily texture. Milder than crushed red pepper, it's perfect for sprinkling over eggs, roasted vegetables, or even pasta. It’s also ideal in yogurt-based dips or sauces where you want depth without dominance. Its balanced heat makes it a favorite among chefs looking for nuance, not just fire. Think of it as your new go-to chili flake—bold, but not brash.

22. Galangal: The Ginger That Isn’t

Often mistaken for ginger, galangal is sharper, spicier, and more citrusy. A staple in Thai and Indonesian cooking, it’s essential in dishes like tom yum soup and rendang curry. Unlike ginger’s warmth, galangal cuts with a medicinal freshness that balances fatty meats and creamy broths. It’s also packed with anti-inflammatory benefits. Use it fresh, dried, or powdered—but always sparingly, as its assertive flavor can easily dominate. Galangal adds a distinct Southeast Asian note that instantly transports your cooking to a different continent.

In a world dominated by familiar flavors, it's easy to overlook the quiet brilliance of the spices that don’t clamor for attention—but those are often the ones that transform a dish from forgettable to unforgettable. These 22 underrated spices carry centuries of tradition, healing properties, and bold, untapped potential—all waiting to be rediscovered by curious cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Whether it’s the smoky intrigue of Urfa Biber, the tangy spark of amchur, or the floral heat of pink peppercorns, each offers a passport to new culinary dimensions. By reaching beyond the usual salt-and-pepper comfort zone, you're not just seasoning your food—you’re telling a richer, more daring story with every bite. So stock your spice rack with wonder. Reimagine the familiar. And let your kitchen become a space of bold invention, where even the humblest meal carries the soul of a faraway land. The adventure starts with a pinch.