How2Day: Frontera Spices

Spice is an essential component to Mexican cooking. Maren Caruso/Photodisc/Getty Images
The 1995 James Beard Chef of the Year, Rick Bayless, is known as the Mexican cuisine authority. He owns four restaurants in Chicago: Topolobampo, XOCO, Frontera Fresco and Frontera Grill. Renowned New York Times food writer Craig Claiborne called Bayless's first cookbook, "the greatest contribution to the Mexican table imaginable." Rick Bayless's notoriety has garnered numerous television appearances as well as a line of gourmet food products including salsas, soups, pizzas and marinades. The Frontera line also includes seasonings created to spice up the home cook's recipes.

Chipotles are jalapeno peppers smoked slowly over a wood fire until they are infused with a deep smoky smell and flavor. Originally a method used to preserve the peppers, today's cooks use chipotles to introduce smoky heat to soup, chili, salsa and entrees. The chipotles are ground to a powder and mixed with other spices including granulated garlic, paprika, red bell pepper and sugar, making the Chipotle-Garlic Seasoning an ideal rub or crusting for ribs or steaks. When added to creamy dressings, the seasoning adds earthiness to a robust salad.

Spice is the soul of the Mexican kitchen, but for cooks who want less of a punch from their food, the chile-chive seasoning is made for burgers, spicy Mexican meatloaf or chops. Used instead of salt and pepper or traditional seasonings, this spice blend adds flavor without adding too much heat. Sprinkle the seasoning over popcorn or steamed vegetables for a tangy touch. Because of the flavor profiles, the Mild Chile-Chive Seasoning may also be used in Asian dishes.

Lime is essential to Mexican cooking as the acid is a component that complements and balances a spicy dish. The Green-Chile Lime Seasoning is made to enhance the flavors of chicken and fish, and the blend of ground green chilies, lime and cilantro add zest to salad dressings or creamy dips. A fine addition to soups and vegetables, the green-chile lime combination develops the flavors of tortilla soup and Mexican rice.

Tomato and cilantro are as integral to Mexican cooking as lime and chili, and the base of most Mexican recipes usually includes one or more of these ingredients. Bayless's Tomato-Cilantro Seasoning adds a subtle layer of spices to chicken and vegetables. Rub the seasoning over chicken and fish before grilling or broiling to infuse favors into the meat. The tomato-cilantro spice is also an excellent addition to add pizazz to soups, stews or dressings.

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