Blending spices at home allows you to customize the flavor to your liking and eliminate unnecessary salt or sweeteners. Use an electric coffee grinder or a blender with a small container to grind spices. Many flavors are typical of specific cuisines. Ginger, garlic and pepper come to us from the Chinese. Basil, marjoram and oregano come from the Italians.
Curries are typical Indian and Thai foods.
Tailor your blends to the cuisine you're preparing. Store in an airtight container in your freezer. Add to taste to your favorite stew. Garlic and onion powders can be substituted for the fresh and will give a longer shelf life, however the flavor is better using fresh. Store dry mixture in the freezer or make the fresh product as needed.