Posts
Historically used
for seasoning, herbs and spices have evolved from their
ancient purposes to become a cornerstone of modern food preparation. While
herbs derive from a plant's leaves and spices from its roots, bark, or seeds,
they are used together to enhance a dish's flavor, color, and visual artistry.
In contemporary cooking, these ingredients are essential for creating appealing
and diverse food experiences.
Mediterranean cuisine is
renowned for its diverse array of herbs and spices, which are often used to
reduce or replace the need for salt and sugar. These ingredients are used both
individually and in blends to add amazing flavors to food.
Common Mediterranean
herbs and spices:
Herbs: Basil, bay leaf, dill, fennel,
garlic, lavender, marjoram, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, savory, tarragon,
and thyme are popular choices.
Spices: Cumin, coriander, black
pepper, cloves, saffron, sumac, and turmeric are also frequently used.
Blends: Some of these, like sumac, are
mixed with other ingredients to create popular blends such as za'atar,
which typically includes thyme, oregano, and sesame seeds.
Examples of use: For instance, organic savory herbs
like dried and fresh marjoram, rosemary, thyme, and oregano can be used to
flavor foods as a salt substitute. Similarly, the blend herbes de
Provence can be used to add flavor while minimizing salt. To replace
sugar and sweeten desserts like tarts, galettes, compotes, marmalades and
syrups, organic culinary lavender and cardamom can be used.
To maintain maximum
flavor, herbs
and spices should be stored in tightly covered glass jars in a cool, dry place
away from heat sources like the stove.
While ground spices last for about 3 months, whole spices can stay fresh for up
to 6 months. For red spices, such as paprika and red pepper, refrigeration
helps them maintain their color and extends their flavor. To ensure peak
freshness, it is best to buy smaller quantities of organic herbs and spices
from the bulk section of a natural food store and replenish them as needed,
rather than purchasing large amounts that can lose potency over time.
Happy Cooking & Baking!
Chef Ellie
Lavender
Plant-Based
Mediterranean Personal Chef
Culinary
& Wine Pairing Instructor
Event
Caterer
Lavender Design + Cuisine
Join my network on Facebook & Instagram to receive recipes and information
on
upcoming chocolate, culinary & wine pairing classes and special events!
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.