Tag: Cooking with herbs

According to a study published in PubMed, many culinary herbs and spices possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and other health-promoting properties due to their bioactive compounds. These powerful compounds are among the many reasons why you should explore what are the benefits of fresh herbs and incorporate them into your daily diet.

Though not a true oregano, Cuban oregano (Plectranthus amboinicus) is a popular and edible herb with thick, fuzzy leaves known for their potent flavor and aroma. This succulent plant, also known as Mexican mint or Indian borage, is widely used in Caribbean and Southeast Asian cuisines and possesses significant medicinal properties. However, due to its very strong taste, it must be used sparingly to avoid overpowering a dish.

One ounce of fresh basil provides substantially more Vitamin K than its dried equivalent, highlighting the nutritional differences between fresh and dried herbs. This article answers the question: are dried herbs as nutritious as fresh herbs, by comparing their nutritional content, flavor, and best culinary uses.

While typically used as a colorful garnish, chive flowers possess surprising nutritional value, including vitamins C and K, and a rich array of antioxidants. This nutrient-dense profile naturally leads many to wonder: are chive flowers good for you, or is their use purely decorative?

While the Mediterranean diet is often praised for its health benefits, studies by health authorities have shown that a significant portion of dietary sodium in European countries, including Greece, comes from processed foods. So, is there a lot of salt in Greek food, or is this a modern misconception?

Bay laurel trees have been cultivated since ancient times, with their leaves used not just for flavor but also to crown victors in ancient Greece. If you have a bay tree, you may be wondering what to do with bay tree leaves beyond a simple pot of soup.

According to the USDA, fresh cilantro leaves contain just 23 calories per 100 grams, proving they are incredibly low in energy. So, is coriander high in calories? The short answer is no, making this flavorful herb a fantastic, guilt-free addition to a healthy diet.

The general culinary rule for converting fresh herbs to dried is a 3:1 ratio. This means that for one teaspoon of fresh oregano, you would use approximately one-third of that amount, or one teaspoon, of dried oregano. This concentration difference is a crucial kitchen tip for any home cook.

A member of the mint family, lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has been cultivated for centuries for its aromatic, lemon-scented leaves. As a staple in many herbal gardens, a common question is whether the lemon balm plant is edible for humans. The answer, for most people, is yes, and it offers a delightful citrusy addition to a wide range of culinary applications.

Archaeological evidence shows that herbs were collected and used as early as the Stone Age, establishing a deep-rooted tradition. What is herbal cuisine? It is the practice of cooking that elevates dishes by using fresh or dried herbs not just for flavor, but also for their potent nutritional and medicinal properties.