Savory Supplements: The Best Herbs to Try in Your Kitchen
Well-placed herbs can do wonders for a meal. They can transform the taste of food and provide important health benefits at the same time. You can buy these plants fresh or even grow them in your own home. Herbs can be chopped up with a special herb knife or herb scissors. If you want to skip the hassle, you can also find them pre-chopped and dried in stores. Without further ado, here are some herbs to add to your next dish.
Parsley
Parsley is a plant that originated in the Mediterranean. By itself, it tastes bitter, but it works with a variety of food types and effectively complements the flavors of dishes. If you are looking to use parsley, you can try eating it with salads, soups and even fruits and vegetables. In addition to being tasty, it is also healthy; parsley contains a nutrient called vitamin K, which plays a role in healing wounds and allowing the blood to clot properly.
Rosemary
Like parsley, the rosemary shrub is also native to the Mediterranean. It has a strong, distinct smell and an earthy taste. It works particularly well with meat and seafood, although it is also very versatile and can be used in a wide variety of dishes. Rosemary contains a plethora of antioxidants, which serve an important function in preventing cell damage. It is also used to alleviate diseases such as high blood pressure and certain cancers.
Cilantro
Cilantro comes from the coriander plant. It pairs well with a wide array of meats, seafood, soups and salads. The leaves of the plant are usually referred to as cilantro, while the seeds are generally called coriander. Cilantro is usually described as having a crisp and flowery taste and is prominent in many Latin American and Asian dishes. This herb is rich in Vitamin A, which helps preserve the health of your eyes and boosts your immune system.
Basil
Basil is a tropical plant that comes from Africa and Asia. It is known for its subtle minty flavor. It is especially useful for sauces and is often used in Italian cuisine. Like rosemary, basil is full of antioxidants; it also contains eugenol which may play a role in lowering blood pressure. It is recommended that you tear basil leaves instead of chopping them, as this allows more oils and flavor to be released.
Mint
This is a well-known herb that grows widely across the world. Its signature cool taste is often paired with meats, especially lamb and chicken. It is also added to many drinks, from smoothies to cocktails. Mint tea is an especially refreshing beverage that can be used to relieve common respiratory illnesses such as colds. Mint itself can help with digestion and contains a myriad of vitamins. There are different varieties of mint leaves, the most common being peppermint, so make sure that you know which type you are looking for before you buy them.
Sage
Sage is native to the Mediterranean and its distinct flavoring is often a key ingredient to any Thanksgiving meal. It is often described as having an almost piney essence with other earthy accents and is used especially to add flavor to butter and vegetables. Beside its culinary uses, sage has long been used to ease bloating and support oral health.
Garlic
Garlic is a well-known and well-used herb that originated in Central Asia. Its trademark taste features in sauces, dressings, garlic butter, rubs, marinades and bread, among many other uses. Garlic can also benefit health as an anti-inflammatory and in lowering cholesterol.
If you want to take your cooking to the next level, you can mix these herbs for more savory effects. There are also many others, such as thyme, oregano and chives, that you can add to your meals. When it comes to the culinary arts, the only limit is your imagination.