Elevate Your Cooking and Health The Dual Benefits of Fresh Herbs
During a webinar a little while ago, I delved into the wonders of fresh herbs. To be honest, I wanted to research the herbs I use most in my kitchen. What I have always thought and now truly KNOW is that herbs are the HEROES in my cooking. Along with spices, they elevate your food to a whole new level of wonderful!
Spice or Herb, What’s the Difference?
YES, there is a difference between herbs and spices. Herbs are the fresh leaves of the plant, while spices are created from the root, bark, and seeds. In cooking, it makes a difference which and how to use them. For long, slow cooks, spices build the flavour profile you want to create. Then, near the end, fresh herbs are added to freshen the dish and add colour.
Herbs Are More Than Just Flavour Enhancers
Herbs are outstanding HEROES in their own leafy goodness! Here are my top three reasons why fresh herbs deserve a starring role in your kitchen:
- Immunity Boost | Most herbs are loaded with Vitamin C, giving your immune system a natural lift.
- Heart and Cardiovascular Health | Thanks to their rich antioxidant content, herbs support a healthy heart.
- Bone Health | High levels of Vitamin K in herbs help maintain strong bones.
Pretty powerful, right? I think so too. Why not explore some fun ways to add more herbs to your daily diet? And NO, not just as a garnish. Herbs are heroes and, along with spices, they truly bring out the best in all meals.
Fun Ways to Use Fresh Herbs:
- Herb Teas: Simply steep fresh leaves in hot water for 5-8 minutes. The amount of leaves and water will vary based on how much tea you’re making. As a rule of thumb, use 8-10 leaves or 1 stalk or 1/3 cup of herbs per 250 ml cup of hot water.
- Herb Pestos/Sauces: Basil and parsley pesto are simple and great uses of herbs. They add a punch of flavour to any dish.
- Herbs in Salads: Many herbs can easily be added to salads. No rule says a salad can’t contain wonderful herbs.
- Herbs in Salad Dressings and Marinades: Add a burst of freshness to meals by choosing the right herb, chopping it, and adding it to the base of a homemade salad dressing or marinade. It truly adds a layer of pure freshness.
And Let’s Not Forget About Spices!
I’ve included three simple spice blends you can use in your cooking anytime – a chili blend, a warm porridge blend, and a baking dessert blend. Creating your own spice blends helps you explore the magic of what spices to add to your cooking, and you control the end result in terms of flavour.
Chili Spice Blend
This versatile blend is perfect for your next batch of chili or as a dry rub for chicken, beef, or pork. It offers a wonderful balance of flavors. Combine the following ingredients:
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste (no more than 1/4 tsp of salt)
Warm Porridge Spice Blend
I love using this blend in my hot porridge as a flavorful alternative to sweeteners.
Mix together the following:
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ground fennel
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend
Despite the name, there’s no pumpkin in this blend. It’s ideal for making delicious pumpkin pie or spicing up coffee drinks. Combine the following ingredients:
- 3 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1 tsp ground cloves
Embracing the power of fresh herbs and spices in your kitchen can transform not only your meals but also your overall culinary experience. By experimenting with these versatile ingredients, you can elevate your dishes, enhance flavors, and even boost your health. Whether you’re crafting a comforting bowl of chili, a heartwarming porridge, or a spiced coffee delight, these blends are your ticket to culinary creativity. So, stock up on these kitchen essentials and let the magic of herbs and spices inspire you to create delicious, nutritious meals every day.
Happy cooking!
– Patricia
