In the kitchen, there are countless ways to use herbs, but since the beginning of time they have been utilized for more than just a flavoring agent for foods. Perfume and medicine are two, for example.
Since bathing was often a luxury way back when, herbs were used as a perfume or deodorant, and they were burned in religious ceremonies because it was believed the sweet smell would rise up to the gods and please them. Interest in herbs really took off when it was discovered that they could be used medicinally. Apothecaries, the forerunner to pharmacists, planted herbs all around their homes that they would then dry and sell them.
Herb Gardening :
If you're not growing herbs in your garden, flowerbed or even in containers, you are missing out on a great gardening experience because they are some of the most undemanding plants you can grow. Herbs don't require much in the way of improved soils (as long as you give them good drainage); they are bothered by few, if any, insects; they don't take up much space, especially when grown in containers; and they're easy to grow.
People grow herbs for various reasons - to smell, to heal or just to look at. Here are some culinary herbs, those that go great with all kinds of food.
- Basil - There are many different types of basil (sweet, mint, spicy, lettuce leaf). This is a versatile herb, perfect with tomatoes, cheese or any salad.
- Tarragon - This herb does best in containers and has a licorice flavor. It's considered one of the fine French herbs and gives bXarnaise sauce its characteristic flavor. It's the only commonly used herb or spice to come from a plant in the daisy family.
- Dill - Related to the carrot, this is a wonderfully flavorful herb, and not bad to look at when in full bloom. Dill was cultivated early on in India and Asia, and has been a constant of culinary life ever since. Where would pickles be without it?
- Thyme - This herb adds beauty to any landscape but is also perfect in soups, sauces, stews and with braised meats. A great antiseptic, thyme is used in mouthwashes and gargles and is a potent disinfectant. Thyme is an important ingredient in the liqueur Benedictine.
- Cilantro - An herb with a dual personality, the leaves of this plant are known as cilantro. After it flowers, the seeds are harvested as coriander, which is one of the most popular spices in South America. This herb has been used in both liqueur and cologne.
Note: The best time to harvest herbs is just before they flower because that's when the flavor is at its peak.
