Photo by David Moore Bay Leaves, Four-pepper blend, Cardamom, Chili flakes, Fennel seed, Turmeric

Fall calls for aromatic curries, well-seasoned soups and cinnamony pies. But spicy can get pricy. Here’s where to bulk up for less.


Lee Lee Oriental Supermarket
2025 N. Dobson Road, Chandler
480-899-2887  leeleesupermarket.com

This expansive Asian emporium is famous for its live fish, frozen durian and distinctive smell. It’s also the place to bag cheap bags of spices. Aisles are sorted by country (sort of), so since some spices span cultures, there’s no rhyme or reason to finding them. View it as an adventure as you peruse 7- to 14-ounce packets of spice staples (nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, star anise), oodles of obscure Indian and Chinese seasonings, and whopping five-pound bags of red chili flakes, all for a song. Other location: Peoria.


Sahuaro Spice Company
3611 N. 34th Ave., Phoenix
602-272-8557
sahuarospiceco.com

Started in 1949, this local institution has supplied spices to Bashas’ and several Valley restaurants. Though it’s hop-scotched locations a few times, its loyal customers always follow. Where else can they get that signature chorizo mix (the company blends 5,000 pounds a month) or find spices delivered fresh weekly? Be prepared to bulk up, though: The minimum weight for most spices is one pound.


Chakra 4 Herb & Tea House
4773 N. 20th St., Phoenix
(Town & Country Shopping Center)
602-283-1210
chakra4herbs.com

Eye of newt and toe of frog, wool of bat and tongue of dog. OK, so the witches of Macbeth couldn’t cross everything off their shopping list here. But with all the exotic Ayurvedic and Chinese herbs available (deer antler powder, anyone?), they could come close. Prefer stew to brew? This is the place to source elusive curry components like asafetida or fenugreek, as well as organic versions of staples such as black pepper and cinnamon.


Haji-Baba Middle Eastern Food
1513 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe
480-894-1905

If your recipe calls for several spices but you don’t have room in your pantry for bulk goods, head to this grocery, which carries a bevy of spice baggies for around a buck. You’ll find four varieties of cardamom; whole and ground allspice, fennel and cumin; black and white poppy seeds; bigger bags of chamomile and hibiscus for tea; pre-mixed seasonings for falafel and shawarma; and much more. Drop by the adjacent café for inexpensive, tasty Middle Eastern mainstays.