"It's too bland, pass the salt!"

   That is an unfortunate statement made by many who just haven't yet discovered the rainbow of flavors that exists in our world of edibles. I'm talking about spices and herbs people!
   A lot of people aren't very aware of the variety of flavors that are available to them in those little glass jars. Some people think that expert use of spices is just for experts, that an average at-home-cook can't grasp the intricate aromas and delicate flavors of Saffron, Tarragon, and Coriander. That's completely not true.
   When was the last time you smelled Coriander? Or any spice that you like? Can you remember what it smells like? If you want to try using a spice you've never used before, but are afraid you'll ruin your dish, just smell it. Do you like it? Do you feel it fits with what you're cooking? Then use it!
   Unlike salt, it is very hard to overuse most spices. With some spices like Coriander, you would have to pour nearly the entire jar into your dish for someone eating it to say "Holy crap, there's a lot of Coriander in there!"... Just kidding, but really though...
   When you make Tacos with that little seasoning packet you bought for .89, just what are you dumping onto your browned-and-drained ground chuck? Is it a complex concoction of exotic ingredients you couldn't hope to mimic as an everyday regular person? Of course not! It's Chili Powder, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Cumin, Paprika, Salt and some Corn Starch for thickening! You probably have those things in your cupboard right now. You could even substitute the Onion and Garlic Powder with fresh minced Garlic and chopped Onion.
   What makes cooking from scratch great is that you can cook something exactly how you want it. You can take an already established recipe and add a little more of this, a little less of that, or something completely new that isn't normally in that type of dish but you think it tastes pretty damn good so you put it in anyway!
   Food doesn't have to be a certain way. When you cook, you are creating something out of nothing. You are painting a picture, writing a song, providing an experience. Don't be afraid to try new things, new flavors. Just remember this; if the canvas you are painting on needs more life, do you cover it with grey? Or do you use every color at your disposal to create a beautiful and intricate masterpiece straight from your soul?
 

Image borrowed from: http://wall.alphacoders.com/big.php?i=336510