This Thai 7 spices blend is one of those quiet helpers I like to keep around. It’s a dry seasoning mix you can stash in the pantry and grab when you are in the mood for Thai but do not want to eat out. Blending your own ground spices creates an aromatic, warm seasoning you can easily make at home.
This Thai spice blend fits easily into dinner cooking when you want a Thai-style meal without extra steps. I use it on chicken, shrimp, or vegetables before they go in the pan, or stir a little into rice, soups, or ground meat for dinner. It’s simple to use, easy to keep on hand for busy night meals. I also like mixing up an extra batch, spooning it into small seasoning jars, adding a simple label and a little bow, and giving it as a homemade Thai seasoning gift to my friends who enjoy cooking.
Key Ingredients You Will Need
Here’s a quick overview of the key ingredients for this recipe. For the full list of ingredients and exact measurements, jump to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Chili Powder: Choose mild or spicy depending on how much heat you like.
- Ground Cumin: Adds warmth and depth that carries through meats and vegetables.
- Garlic Powder: I like a fine, evenly ground garlic powder here so it blends smoothly and doesn’t clump.
- Ground Ginger: It adds warmth without making the blend feel sharp or sweet.
- Ground Cloves: Cloves have a strong flavor, so I measure them carefully. A little adds warmth, but too much can dominate.
- Ground Star Anise: Provides subtle sweetness and rounds out the blend.
Smart Substitutions
Want to infuse a little heat? Choose a spicy chili powder or add a few pinches of chili pepper flakes before grinding the spice mix.
Thai 7 Spice Gift Essentials
Glass Spice Jars, 4 oz with Labels
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Buy Now → How To Make Thai 7 Spice
This comes together quickly, whether you’re using pre-ground spices or grinding your own. It’s a simple mix-and-store situation, nothing complicated.
Measure all the spices into a small bowl, and whisk until fully blended and free of clumps. Then transfer the mixture to an airtight jar and seal it.
Using Whole Spices
Grind the whole spices until they’re fine with no large pieces left, then measure them according to the recipe. Whisk all the spices together and transfer to an airtight jar.
Tip: Grinding whole spices brings out their full aroma and richer flavor. If you choose ground spices, be sure they are fresh and aromatic, especially cloves and star anise.
Variations and Recipe Tips
This blend works especially well as a dry rub for chicken or pork. If you like the dry-rub approach, try my Grilled Thai Chicken Recipe.
I often sprinkle this blend into rice, vegetables, or Tofu Soup With Noodles And Vegetables near the end of cooking for an extra flavor.
For a citrusy flavor, add 1 teaspoon of finely ground Kaffir lime leaves. Their strong, distinctive citrus flavor is fragrant and slightly tangy, perfect for adding a bright, refreshing zest to Thai curries, soups, stir-fries, and salads.
If you cook with it often, making a double batch is worth it; it stores well and is easy to grab for everyday meals.
How You Can Practice Hospitality with Thai 7 Spices
Use this Thai seasoning to create a simple meal centered on Thai-inspired food. Invite friends to dinner to enjoy the flavors together while learning a little about Thai culture.
After the meal, take intentional time to pray for missionaries who are living and serving there. Pray for wisdom as they learn the language and customs, for meaningful relationships to grow through hospitality, and for strength and encouragement as they serve. This kind of dinner helps people understand the culture, engage their hearts, and lift up the work being done in Thailand through prayer.
Make this Thai 7 spice blend for a quick dinner shortcut, to infuse authentic Thai flavor into your recipes. If you have any questions about making this recipe, feel free to ask in the comments below. I’m here to help! You can also snap a photo and tag @intentionalhospitality on Instagram.đŸ’› I love seeing your creations!
Homemade Thai 7 Spice Blend
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chili powder, mild or spicy, depending on heat preference
- 3 teaspoons cumin
- 3 teaspoons garlic powder
- 3 teaspoons ground ginger
- 3 teaspoons black pepper, substitute red chili pepper for extra heat
- 2 teaspoons cloves, ground
- 2 teaspoons star anise, ground fine
Instructions
Using Pre-Ground Spices
- Measure all the spices into a small bowl.2 tablespoons chili powder, 3 teaspoons cumin, 3 teaspoons garlic powder, 3 teaspoons ground ginger, 3 teaspoons black pepper, 2 teaspoons cloves, 2 teaspoons star anise
- Whisk well to break up any clumps and fully blend the mixture.
- Transfer the spice blend to an airtight jar and secure the lid.
Using Whole Spices
- Place the whole seeds and pods into a spice grinder.
- Pulse briefly, then grind until the spices are finely ground and no large pieces remain.
- Measure the ground spices according to the ingredient list.
- Add all spices to a small bowl and whisk until evenly blended.
- Transfer the spice blend to an airtight jar and secure the lid.
Gina’s Notes and Tips
Storage
- Homemade spice blends will keep for up to 3 months when stored in an airtight container, depending on the freshness of the spices used.
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