The Stylish Traveler
I’ve been known to stuff my suitcase with herbs from Provence while visiting France, paprika during a jaunt to Hungry and vanilla beans after spending a few weeks in Mexico.
Thanks to The Spice & Tea Exchange, a new shop in Annapolis, I don’t have to travel very far to experience 175 different spices and herbs, 30 loose leaf teas, 25 fancy salts, 28 peppers, 11 botanically flavored sugars plus an amazing rice and orzo selection. Owners Joy Quinn and Taruna Reddy have culled together an extraordinary collection from all over the planet.
As I stroll up Main Street in the heart of this historic town the delicious aroma wafting in the air lets me know I’m getting close to the front door. I’m lured inside.
Walls are lined with shelves holding large clear glass jars filled with herbs, spices and teas. I like the fact that I can buy as little or as much as I want—even as little as half an ounce—so I don’t have to worry about a large bottle of any one spice getting stale on my kitchen shelf. And I like the idea of taking a sniff before I decide to buy. Every spice and rub is certified as organic with no preservatives, MSG or fillers.
My favorites? The pretty green rice infused with bamboo juice. I bought it for the color but love the taste. The espresso steak rub has garnered thumbs up from my husband. And I love the fancy salts, especially the Pinot Noir sea salt and a pretty pinkish one from the Himalayas.
Ah yes, variety is the spice of life.
The Spice & Tea Exchange of Annapolis
155 Main Street
Annapolis, Maryland 21401
410 280-2088
http://www.spiceandtea.com
Posted by .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) on 07/15/11 at 07:14 AM
