Looking to create better tasting, traditional Mexican food? Here are the most frequently used Mexican spices, herbs and chiles to take your meal to the next level.

Cumin-heavy sazón is among the most commonly used spice blends in Puerto Rican cooking, and is also popular throughout Latin America This seasoning is an incredible cheat, and is typically found in the international section of most supermarkets Commercial brands are flavor bombs pumped with monosodium glutamate — MSG — that can make almost anything taste better

This white spice paste is the cornerstone of many Indonesian meals and is the base of many other essential flavorings within the cuisine. Plus: Having a jar in my fridge means I can whip up my favorite meals at a moment’s notice.

Cumin-heavy sazón is among the most commonly used spice blends in Puerto Rican cooking, and is also popular throughout Latin America This seasoning is an incredible cheat, and is typically found in the international section of most supermarkets Commercial brands are flavor bombs pumped with monosodium glutamate — MSG — that can make almost anything taste better