I thought those 'dollar store' spices were a total waste of money

My friend in Phoenix swore by them for her chili, but I was sure they'd be flavorless dust. I finally bought a jar of cumin for $1.25 at a local Dollar Tree last month just to test it. I used it in a big pot of black beans and rice, and honestly, it was just as good as the $6 brand I usually get. Has anyone else found a specific cheap ingredient that actually surprised them?

3 comments

3 Comments

elliotjenkins20d ago

Ever notice how a lot of the basic stuff is basically the same no matter where you buy it? I had the same shock with store brand baking soda and salt. They're just simple minerals or powders, so the expensive name brand doesn't really add anything. It makes you wonder what other kitchen staples we're overpaying for.

elizabeth22020d agoMost Upvoted

Used to buy the fancy stuff until my mom showed me the store brand is the same thing.

the_james12d ago

Used to buy name brand everything myself... thought the cheap stuff would mess up my recipes or whatever. Then I grabbed store brand flour and sugar during a tight week and honestly couldn't tell the difference. Kind of embarrassing how long it took me to figure that out.