L Is for Love: 10 Spices That Start with L to Spice Up Your Life (Literally!)

When it comes to spices, the alphabet doesn't stop at A or B — and neither should your pantry! If you're ready to level up your flavor game, let's take a luxurious look at spices that start with L. From the lavender-scented fields of Provence to the legendary black lacquer of licorice root, this list will leave your taste buds longing for more.

Table of Contents

• Lavender – The Calming Culinary Flower
• Lemon Pepper – Zesty & Bold
• Licorice Root – Sweetness Beyond Candy
• Long Pepper – The Forgotten Relative of Black Pepper
• Lemongrass – Citrus in Grass Form
• Lorena – A Hidden Gem from Mexico
• Lovage – The Celery You’ve Never Met
• Bonus Tip: How to Use L-Spices Like a Pro Chef

Lavender – The Calming Culinary Flower

You may associate lavender with spa days and essential oils, but did you know it’s also a culinary gem? When used sparingly, culinary lavender adds a floral note that works wonders in desserts, teas, and even savory dishes like lamb.

Pro Tips:

• Use only food-grade lavender (not ornamental varieties).
• Pair with lemon or honey for a balanced flavor.
• Great in shortbread cookies or infused into sugar.

Lemon Pepper – Zesty & Bold

If there’s one spice blend that screams “flavor without fuss,” it’s lemon pepper. This tangy-heat combo is perfect for grilled chicken, seafood, and even popcorn!

How It Works:

Ingredient	Purpose
Dried lemon zest	Provides bright citrus flavor
Black pepper	Adds earthy heat
Salt (optional)	Enhances overall flavor

Licorice Root – Sweetness Beyond Candy

Not just for red ropes in candy stores, licorice root has been used for centuries in herbal medicine and cooking. Its sweet, earthy flavor can be brewed into tea, added to stews, or even used in spice rubs.

Did You Know?

• Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which is 50 times sweeter than sugar!
• A little goes a long way — use sparingly.
• Popular in Middle Eastern and Chinese cuisines.

Long Pepper – The Forgotten Relative of Black Pepper

Before black pepper ruled the world, long pepper was the spice du jour in ancient Rome and India. With a complex, piney heat, it's worth rediscovering.

Flavor Profile:

• Earthy and woodsy
• More intense than black pepper
• Faint hints of nutmeg and cinnamon

Lemongrass – Citrus in Grass Form

This aromatic herb gives Thai curries and Vietnamese soups their signature zing. Don’t worry about chewing it raw — just bruise it or slice thinly for best results.

Storage Tip:

• Wrap fresh stalks in a damp towel and store in fridge for up to 2 weeks.
• Freeze chopped lemongrass in ice cube trays for easy future use.

Lorena – A Hidden Gem from Mexico

Lorena is a traditional Mexican spice mix containing chili, lime, and salt — perfect for rimming glasses or sprinkling over fruit. Think of it as Tajín’s equally awesome cousin.

Use It In:

• Margarita rims
• Sprinkled over mango slices or jicama sticks
• Seasoning for roasted nuts

Lovage – The Celery You’ve Never Met

If regular celery seems too subtle, meet lovage — its bold, punchier relative. The leaves and seeds are both usable and add an earthy, umami kick to soups and stews.

Cooking Ideas:

• Add to potato salad instead of celery
• Infuse vinegar or oil with lovage
• Use in German sausages or hearty bean dishes

Bonus Tip: How to Use L-Spices Like a Pro Chef

Want to impress your dinner guests with global flair? Try these pro-level combinations using our L-spice lineup:

• Lamb with Lavender & Lemon Pepper: Rub onto meat before roasting for a French-Provencal twist.
• Thai Lemongrass Soup: Simmer lemongrass stalks with coconut milk and mushrooms.
• Spiced Tea Blend: Mix licorice root with ginger and mint for a soothing herbal infusion.

Conclusion

Who knew the letter L could lead us on such a flavorful journey? From the calming notes of lavender to the fiery punch of lemon pepper, these spices prove that variety really is the spice of life.

Next time you’re staring blankly at your spice rack, don’t just reach for the usual suspects. Shake things up with something starting with L — your tastiest meal might just come from that forgotten corner of your cabinet.

So go ahead, live a little. Let those L-spices light up your kitchen, one sprinkle at a time.