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Which herb should I use? – The Rookie Cook learns about herbs

 

spice-rack20090218My spice rack consists of a store-bought rack that came with the spices/herbs. Even if the rack came with spices I knew of, I had no idea when to use at least half of them! So I did a quick web search to enlighten me in the uses of spices and herbs. Here I share with you my findings….

Let’s continue our Rookie Cook lessons with 106 – Herbs and spices.

Basil – beans, eggs, fish, pasta, pesto, poultry, soups, stews, rice, tomatoes and vegetables such as zucchini and eggplant.

Chives – cheese, creamy soups, eggs, herb butters potatoes, salads, stir fries.

Coriander – Asian cooking, curries, salads, salsas.

Dill – fish, pickled cucumbers, potatoes, salads.

Marjoram – chicken, fish, omelets, seafood, soups and stews.

Oregano - beans, herb butter, salad dressings, soups, tomato-based sauces, vinegars.

Parsley – chicken, egg dishes, fish, pasta, salads, soups, vegetables.

Rosemary –  breads, meat (especially lamb), potatoes, tomato-based sauces.

Sage - breads, chowder, fish, pork.

Thyme - meat such as veal and lamb, soups, stews, tomato-based sauces.

During my quest to learn more about spices and herbs, I’ve discovered a website that has a spices primer. You can learn more about various spices by clicking on the links on the right side of the website.

Do you have tips and tricks to share with me and readers about the usage of spices? Do you have a special blend you came up with and love to use here, there and everywhere? Don’t be shy, share with us your spices and herbs experiments in comments below!

Photo Credit: dowlerseoul.wordpress.com

2 Responses to “Which herb should I use? – The Rookie Cook learns about herbs”

February 18, 2009 at 3:04 PM

You will have so much fun with herbs and spices, Isabelle! I would note that you might as well toss the dried basil and parsley now–they really don’t taste like anything once they’re dried. You could use the canisters for other herbs or spices that you like. I’m a huge cumin fan myself. Hot pepper flakes are nice to have for spicing things up, too.

March 8, 2009 at 4:56 PM

I use thyme or sage when I roast potatoes – esp. new red potatoes. I always use fresh herbs, but I’m sure it would be good with dried herbs too.

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