Tag: Aromatic herbs

The bay laurel tree, whose leaves have crowned champions since ancient times, offers a subtle yet essential depth of flavor to countless dishes and surprising utility throughout the home.

Lovage seeds were historically used since Roman times, prized for both their culinary and medicinal properties. So, what do lovage seeds taste like, and why might this potent spice be the secret ingredient you're missing in your kitchen?

Sweetfern, a plant native to North America, was historically used by Indigenous communities for its medicinal properties and as a food source. Is sweetfern edible? This aromatic shrub, despite its deceptive name, is indeed safe to consume when properly identified and prepared.

As a delightful, naturally occurring hybrid, strawberry mint is prized for its uniquely sweet, fruity aroma, which sets it apart from traditional mints. But what is strawberry mint good for beyond its pleasant fragrance? This versatile herb is cherished for its wide-ranging culinary, health, and aromatic applications.

While the term 'herb' is widely used in cooking and medicine, botanically, it is not a formal classification but rather a descriptive term for useful plants. Many herbs belong to the same few plant families, sharing distinct physical characteristics and aromatic properties.

While most people associate limonene with citrus fruits, this aromatic terpene is also found in a wide range of herbs and spices. Its presence is not only responsible for the characteristic scent in many plants but also contributes to potential health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

In many parts of the world, particularly South Asia, the aromatic herb known as dill is frequently called 'soya'. This regional naming convention often leads to confusion for those unfamiliar with the terminology, creating a common question: are dill and soya the same? The short and simple answer is yes, when referring to the herb in a culinary context.

Used for generations by indigenous cultures like the Aztecs and Mayans, the aromatic Mexican herb epazote has been prized for both its culinary and medicinal properties. Understanding what is epazote in English opens the door to a unique flavor profile and a key ingredient in authentic Latin American dishes.

According to culinary experts, the general rule is that dried rosemary is safe to consume raw in small, seasoning-sized quantities, though it's not ideal due to its tough, pine needle-like texture and concentrated flavor. This guide explores why consuming raw dried rosemary differs from its cooked counterpart and the best ways to incorporate it into your cooking.