On Wed, 3 Feb 2010 06:49:45 -0500, StaceyB >
wrote:

>
>this is my first post so hello everybody!
>
>i love cooking, i can't claim to be an expert but i do love it so i'm
>hoping to pick up a few hints and tips from here - sounds like you're
>all masterchefs compared to me!
>
>anyway, i want to invest in a good spice rack but have unbelievable
>limited space in my kitchen so may just have to stick to the pots for
>now - do you all have a top 5 spices that are essential and versatile?
>
>thanks!
>
>x

Depends on what you cook, with me it's mostly soups and stews so:

Black Pepper ( usually cracked or coarse ground)
Basil
Bay leaf
Fennel (so call me radical)
Garlic (if you'll allow it's a spice)