Herb Your Enthusiasm: The Wild World of Culinary Greens
What are herbs? Herbs are plants that are valued for their flavor, fragrance, medicinal properties, or other qualities. They have been used for centuries for culinary, medicinal, and aromatic purposes. Gardeners love to grow herbs because they are relatively easy to care for and can add a burst of flavor to any dish. From basil to thyme, there are countless herbs to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and uses.
Popular herbs from A to Z include basil, cilantro, dill, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, thyme, and many more. Each herb has its own distinct flavor profile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Basil, for example, is a staple in Italian cuisine and adds a fresh, peppery flavor to pasta dishes and salads. Rosemary, on the other hand, has a woody, pine-like flavor that pairs well with roasted meats and vegetables.
In addition to their culinary uses, herbs also have a long history of medicinal use. For example, mint is commonly used to soothe an upset stomach, while chamomile is known for its calming properties. Many gardeners grow herbs not only for their flavor but also for their medicinal benefits. Whether you are looking to add a pop of flavor to your cooking or create homemade remedies, herbs are a versatile and valuable addition to any garden.
One of the best things about growing herbs is that they can be easily incorporated into everyday meals. Whether you are making a simple salad or a complex stew, herbs can elevate the flavor of any dish.
Below are some popular herbs that we use at home.
- Star Anise: Known for its licorice-like flavor, anise is used in both sweet and savory dishes, including baked goods, soups, and marinades.
- Basil: A versatile herb with a sweet and slightly peppery flavor, basil is a staple in Mediterranean and Southeast Asian cuisines, used in dishes like pesto, caprese salad, and Thai curries.
- Bay Leaf: Used to flavor soups, stews, and sauces.
- Chives: Used as a garnish and in salads.
- Cilantro (Coriander leaves): Essential in Mexican, Indian, and Southeast Asian cuisines.
- Dill: Used in pickling and to flavor fish dishes.
- Fennel: Bulb, leaves, and seeds used in Mediterranean and Indian cuisine.
- Garlic: Widely used in virtually every cuisine.
- Ginger: Used fresh or dried in Asian, Indian, and Caribbean cooking.
- Horseradish: Root used as a pungent condiment.
- Jasmine: Jasmine flowers sometimes used in teas and desserts.
- Lavender: Used in baking and Provençal cooking.
- Lemongrass: Key in Southeast Asian cuisine.
- Mint: Widely used in Middle Eastern, Asian, and desserts.
- Oregano: Essential in Italian and Greek cuisine.
- Parsley: Used as a garnish and in cooking for its fresh flavor.
- Peppermint: Used in desserts and beverages.
- Rosemary: Used to flavor meats, especially lamb, and in Mediterranean dishes.
- Sage: Used in stuffing, meats, and Italian cooking.
- Tarragon: Essential in French cuisine, especially in Béarnaise sauce.
- Thyme: Widely used in Mediterranean and French cuisine.
- Watercress: Used in salads and soups.