Category: Herbs and spices

Achiote seeds contain approximately 388 calories per 100 grams, but the way it is prepared and the amount used significantly impacts its caloric contribution. This article breaks down how many calories are in achiote across its different uses, including in pastes, oils, and as a ground spice, helping you understand its nutritional role in your meals.

Nutmeg is widely recognized for its high myristicin content, a natural compound that can be psychoactive in large, concentrated quantities, though normal culinary use is considered safe. The compound is not limited to this potent spice, as a variety of common herbs and vegetables also contain it in lesser amounts.

Over 50 varieties of basil exist, and nearly all are edible, adding a rich, aromatic flavor to a multitude of dishes worldwide. Understanding if it's safe to eat basil leaves requires looking at dosage, specific varieties like holy basil, and potential interactions with certain medications.

Historically used for over 3,000 years for both culinary and medicinal purposes, the humble chive holds a powerful array of health-promoting properties. In the quest for adding more nutrient-dense foods to our diets, the question, "Are fresh chives good for you?" often arises, and the answer is a resounding yes.

According to the USDA, a single teaspoon of dried thyme provides a notable concentration of several key minerals, making it a powerful addition to your meals. This fragrant herb does more than just enhance flavor; it offers a significant nutritional boost, prompting many to question exactly which mineral does thyme provide in the greatest abundance.

Research has revealed that vanillic acid, a beneficial phenolic compound, is naturally present in a wide array of plant-based foods and beverages. Knowing what food has vanillic acid in it allows you to incorporate this antioxidant into your diet through sources like herbs, fruits, and certain oils.

The individual herbs in poultry seasoning, like sage and rosemary, are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This popular blend can be a healthy addition to your meals, but its nutritional value largely depends on the specific ingredients and whether it's store-bought or homemade.

Archaeological evidence suggests that black onion seeds, also known as kalonji or nigella seeds, have been prized for their culinary and medicinal properties for over 2,000 years. With their unique earthy, peppery flavor, many wonder how to eat black onion seeds to best unlock their potential in the kitchen and enhance well-being.

Native to Southern Mexico and Central America, the chipilín leaf is a highly nutritious herb, valued for its distinctive earthy flavor. This guide will explain how to use chipilín, covering preparation techniques and traditional recipes to bring the authentic taste of the region to your kitchen.

Over 5,000 years ago, ancient civilizations used garlic for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Today, many people question whether the dehydrated, powdered version of this ancient superfood retains any of its potency. The answer is yes, garlic powder still has health benefits, though there are key differences compared to its fresh counterpart.