Herbs & Spices

Herbs & spices are the essential ingredients in any food item. Most of the time, they are used for seasoning or flavouring a recipe. Basil, parsley, thyme, rosemary, and coriander are common examples. However, there is many more to choose from. So, let us explore in detail.

The uses of herbs & spices have been significant throughout history. No meal or snack is technically complete without these two categories of items. They give flavour to dishes and boost our health in some way or other. You can choose from many herbs, like basil, which are the leaves of a plant, whereas cinnamon is a common spice from the seeds or roots. Apart from flavouring food and being healthy, some studies have shown that herbs & spices also cut back on lesser healthy components like sugar, salt, added fat etc. Since there is a wide range of options, choosing some can be not very clear. So, here is a guide on how to go for the best herbs & spices as per your requirements.

Things to know about some common herbs & spices

Herbs & spices are items that enhance the flavours of food items. Some of the common herbs cooks use include cilantro, parsley, and basil. Spice, on the other hand, come from berries, seeds and roots of the plants. Many of the nutrients you get from herbs & spices can help you fight chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer etc. They may even have antiviral and antibacterial properties. Anise, basil, black mustard, black pepper, borage, brown mustard, and catnip are some of the common spices and herbs you will find. Each has a different taste and work in your recipe. However, one does not require all of them. Your selection depends upon the type of dishes you prepare. Let us know about some of the popular herbs & spices in detail.

Coriander

Coriander is one of the most common and popular ingredients in many dishes. It is a feathery plant of the parsley family. Its parts are used both as herbs as well as spices. Its dry fruits, seeds and leaves are used to flavour various food items like curries, sausages etc. The leaves of this plant are called cilantro. It comes from the Spanish word for Chinese parsley or coriander. The cooks use the whole seeds in pickling and brining. When you dry roast it and grind it, you will be able to produce ground coriander. It is a part of vegetables, soups, stews, and meat dishes. Coriander has also been used in many traditional medication methods to treat stomach ailments.

Fenugreek seeds

Fenugreek is a popular and common household spice that is also popular as a thickening agent. If the chicken curry and lentil stew impress you at restaurants, then you will be glad to know that you can bring a similar taste to your homemade dishes by using the right spice. One of those is fenugreek seeds. A pinch of it can turn a regular dish into a mouthwatering one. It is one of the common ingredients in Indian dishes, famous for its sweet and nutty flavour. Both the seeds as well as leaves of this plant are edible. The seeds of this plant are hard, yellowish-brown and angular. On the other hand, the leaves are available fresh and dried. These are also popular as leafy greens in curries.

Dill leaves and seeds

Dill is a pretty herb that has feathery leaves. Speaking of its flavour, it has a fresh taste that is anise-like. It is popular for bringing out the flavours of other herbs. It may come in both fresh as well as dry forms. Fresh dills find their use in food items like yoghurt sauces, seafood dishes, vinegar, soups etc. Seeds, on the other hand, are a popular ingredient in pickles and bread. You can even sprinkle them over the casserole before baking. The seeds have a stronger flavour than the seeds. Apart from its good taste, it also comes up with health benefits. Like, dill tea is good for those who have insomnia. It may even work towards relieving you from indigestion and nausea.