Using Fresh Herbs
Health Benefits of Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs offer a multitude of health benefits, making them not only delightful additions to a recipe but also valuable contributors to overall well-being. Packed with essential nutrients, antioxidants, and phytochemicals, herbs such as basil, rosemary, and parsley can help enhance the immune system, support digestive health, and reduce inflammation. Their aromatic compounds, like essential oils, not only impart flavor but also possess antimicrobial properties that can aid in preventing foodborne illnesses. Additionally, incorporating fresh herbs into your meals can reduce the need for excessive salt or unhealthy flavor enhancers, promoting heart health by keeping sodium intake in check. Furthermore, these fragrant greens are believed to have mood-boosting effects and can lend a sense of tranquility, promoting mental and emotional well-being. So, whether sprinkled over a salad or steeped in a soothing cup of tea, fresh herbs offer a delightful and nutritious way to savor the benefits of nature’s medicine cabinet.
Cooking with Fresh Herbs
Cooking with fresh herbs not only adds health benefits to your meals but a wonderful fresh component that can lighten any dish. When cooking with fresh herbs, remember to add delicate herbs like basil, cilantro, parsley, and mint near the end of the cooking process to preserve their flavor, while sturdier herbs like rosemary, thyme, and marjoram can be added earlier for a more robust taste. Additionally, always ensure your herbs are dry before chopping them to prevent clumping and loss of flavor, and consider using a gentle hand when seasoning, as a little fresh herb can go a long way in enhancing the taste of your dishes. Along with this dried herbs on the other hand are even more concentrated compared to their fresh counterparts. With this, you should only add about a ⅓ of the amount of a dried herb compared to fresh.
How to Store Fresh Herbs
Properly storing fresh herbs is essential to maximize their shelf life and maintain their flavor. To keep herbs like parsley, cilantro, and basil fresh, start by trimming the stems and removing any leaves that might be submerged in water. Next, place them upright in a glass of water, similar to a bouquet, covering the leaves with a plastic bag secured by a rubber band. Store this setup in the refrigerator, changing the water every few days or if the water becomes discolored. For hardier herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, you can wrap them in a damp paper towel and then place them in a resealable plastic bag with the air pressed out before storing them in the vegetable crisper. By following these methods, you can extend the freshness of your herbs for up to a week, ensuring they remain vibrant and ready to enhance your culinary creations.
How to Infuse fresh Herbs into oil
Infusing fresh herbs in oil is a simple way to introduce their delightful flavors into your dishes. Begin by washing and thoroughly drying the herbs to prevent any moisture from introducing spoilage. Then, place the chosen herbs in a clean, dry glass container or bottle I normally tend to use mason jars. Then heat your oil (typically a neutral oil like olive or grapeseed) until it’s warm but not boiling about 180 degrees Fahrenheit, and then carefully pour it over the herbs, ensuring they are fully submerged. Seal the container and let it cool to room temperature. Store the infused oil in a cool, dark place for about a week to let the flavors meld. Strain the oil to remove the herbs before transferring them to a clean container, and it’s ready to enhance your cooking with a burst of herbal goodness. Be sure to refrigerate the infused oil to prolong its shelf life and prevent any risk of bacterial growth because if kept and room temperature it will only last about 4 days before bacterial growth becomes a problem.
Author: Brenden Edoff; GVSU Intern at New Growth Project
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