Culinary Herbs

Oregano and Marjoram

11/13/2011

Oregano and Marjoram

Oregano, or as the early Greeks called it oros ganos meaning "joy of the mountain" has the botanical name Origanum vulgare. It is also known as wild marjoram. It is a perennial herb that grows to 2-1/2 feet tall with medium sized oval leaves and purplish pink flowers. Marjoram a close relative, has the botanical name Origanum marjorana and is also known as sweet marjoram. It grows 1-2 feet in height, with tiny oval gray green leaves and white flowers.

Growing Oregano and Marjoram
When planting oregano from seeds make sure to use the Origanum heracleoticum variety, if you use wild oregano it will not have the pungent scent you are looking for. Plant seeds in early spring after all danger of frost. Planting indoors works best. Oregano seeds should be scattered on the surface of flat soil and kept at 70 degrees. Marjoram seeds should be planted in groups of three. Both herbs can be planted as transplants in the garden or grown in a greenhouse. They also do well as container plants, as long as the containers are a minimum 6 inches deep. Oregano and Marjoram grow best in full sun. They need good draining soil and only about 1 inch of water a week. If they are allowed to flower they will lose their pungent scent and flavor, so make sure to prune both herbs before they bloom. Once oregano reaches 6 inches and marjoram reaches 3 inches they can be harvested. It's best to just harvest what you will use that day. The youngest leaves give the most flavor. You may also snip the sprigs and dry them by hanging upside down until completely dry, stored in glass jars they will keep for one year. Pests to look out for are aphids and spider mites.

History of Oregano and Marjoram
Oregano grows wild on the hills in Greece. It is a relative of sweet marjoram, which was said to have had a scent created by Aphrodite that symbolized happiness. Bridal couples wore garlands made of marjoram and the newly departed were given some to provide peace on their next journey. Egyptians used oregano as a disinfectant and healing aid.  Greeks used it to scent their bath water and infused it with oil for use on their hair and skin. Marjoram was used in the Middle Ages to scent flower arrangements. It was added to laundry water to scent clothing and it's leaves were used to polish furniture.

Recipes
Remember when cooking with herbs 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs = 1 teaspoon of dried herbs. Here are a few recipes from Fresh Easy Meals using these aromatic herbs.

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/chicken-noodle-soup.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/roasted-chicken-and-vegetables.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/chicken-pot-pie.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/artichoke-stuffed-manicotti.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/parmesan-potato-wedges.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/spinach-supreme.html

Skin Care
Infuse oregano in bath water to add an aromatic scent and aid in relaxation. Use a strong infusion of oregano water as a conditioner for hair.

Household Uses For
Add crushed marjoram leaves to furniture polish to add a fresh scent to your home. Put sprigs of marjoram on a barbecue for added flavor to foods or use it in pillows and potpourri to scent a room.

Medicinal Uses
You can chew oregano leaves to help relieve a toothache. Marjoram can be used as a tea to aid in digestion, help with a cold, or for headache relief. Marjoram may also be used to help with rheumatism and swelling by add it to bathwater or by adding it to oil to make a poultice.

2011 Copyright

Parsley

11/6/2011

Italian Flat Leaf Parsley

Parsley's flavor is described as the "summation of all things green". It has the botanical name Petroselinum crispum. There are many varieties of parsley, but the two most common are Curled parsley and Italian parsley. Parsley is a bienniel herb ( lasting two years) but it is usually planted annually. The Curled leaf variety grows 6-12 inches. It has dark green, finely cut tufted leaves. It makes a pretty boarder around herbs and vegetables but also grows well in pots. The Italian flat-leaf variety grows 2-3 feet. It's leaves are not quite as dark green as the Curled leaf parsley.

Growing Parsley
Parsley seeds do better when directly planted into the soil after the danger of frost. Make sure to wait to plant parsley seeds until the soil has reached 50 degrees. When planting seeds indoors, plant them in the spring 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Parsley also does very well as a transplant. After the danger of frost has passed is the best time to plant your transplant. Parsley likes moderately rich, moist and well-drained soil. Make sure they get 1 inch of water per week. You can transplant your full-grown plants into pots at least 12 inches deep to keep indoors over winter. Italian flat-leaf parsley also does well in pots. Parsley can be harvested as soon it produces leaves with three branches. You can freeze chopped leaves in plastic bags. Parsley can also be dried, but loses a lot of it's flavor. It can be used fresh, frozen or dried.

Parsley's History
The Greeks held such high regard for parsley, they decorated tombs with it. They also used it as a crown to give to the victors of the Isthmian Games. It was used as a boarder in herb gardens, as well as, used medicinally. It is believed the Romans were the first to use parsley as a food. They also used parsley as a garland to help off-set strong odors.

Cooking with Parsley
Parsley is used in a wide variety of cooking because it enhances the flavor of other foods. The Italian flat-leafed parsley has a superior flavor for cooking. Curled parsley can be used as a flavor enhancer and as a garnish. Remember 1 tablespoon fresh herbs=1 teaspoon dried herbs. Here are some flavorful recipes using parsley.

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/broccoli-stuffed-chicken.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/herb-baked-fish.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/penne-and-asparagus-with-garlic-sauce.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/sauteed-potatoes.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/swiss-mushroom-tarts.html

Parsley in Hair and Skin Care
•                Infuse 1/3 cup parsley with 4 cups boiling water, let cool and strain to make a hair conditioner.

•                Make a facial steam with 1 cup parsley and 6 cups hot water to relieve dry skin.

Household Uses

•                Planted near roses, parsley helps to improve both their health and their scent.

Medicinal Uses

•                Chew raw parsley to freshen breath and to promote healthy skin.

•                Make a poultice with parsley to use as an antiseptic dressing for insect bites, wounds and sprains.

•                Make a tea with parsley to aid in digestion.

2011 copyright

Rosemary

10/23/2011

Rosemary

Rosemary is a favorite herb for many people because of it's aromatic scent and ease to grow. It is of Latin origin meaning "dew of the sea". Rosemary has the botanical name of Rosmarinus officinalis. It is an evergreen shrub with small clusters of lavender blue flowers.

Growing Rosemary
Being native to the Mediterranean, rosemary grows well in temperate climates. Plant seeds or transplants after the last frost of winter. Rosemary does very well grown in greenhouses. It can be grown in containers that are at least 12 inches in diameter. By keeping the foliage and roots trimmed the herb will last up to 4 years in a container. Rosemary is an herb that needs good drainage, about 1 inch of water a week, protection from cold temperature, as well as, protection from the cold wind. In areas where it does get cold and windy, just plant the rosemary in a container and bring it indoors during the winter. It's aromatic leaves will be a welcome scent during the cold winter months. Make sure to prune it just before setting it back outdoors for the summer. Harvest rosemary as needed, making sure to cut 3-4 inches from one branch rather than a little from multiple branches. Dry rosemary by hanging the stems upside down in a dark place. Once thoroughly dry, store in glass jars for up to one year. Pests to be on the look out for are spider mites and whiteflies.

History of Rosemary
Rosemary is a kind of wonder herb that dates as far back as 500 BC when both the Greeks and Romans used it as both a culinary and medicinal herb. The Spanish began cultivating Rosemary in the 1500's. Since then it has been used in such diverse ways as showing fidelity and remembrance, strengthening memories, warding off disease, repelling moths, as a condiment for food, and as topiaries in the garden landscape.

Uses for Rosemary
There are many great reasons to grow rosemary in your yard or garden. Now days it is most commonly used as a cooking herb. However, there are are numerous other uses for this wonder herb. Not only can it be used as a beautiful and easy to care for plant in just about any landscape, it's tiny flower clusters attract birds and bees which is desired in all gardens. Rosemary can be used as an herb in cooking, in hair and skin care products, medicinally, and as a cleaning product in your home.

Rosemary in Cooking
There are many recipes that use rosemary to enhance the flavor of food. When cooking with herbs remember that 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs = 1 teaspoon of dried herbs. Here are a few recipes that really highlight the wonderful flavor of rosemary:

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/rosemary-roasted-pork-loin.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/lemon-roasted-whole-chicken.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/chicken-artichokes-and-rice.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/fish-with-garlic-rosemary-and-lemon.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/hearty-beef-stew.html

Rosemary In Skin and Hair Care
Rosemary as a beauty aid has many uses: It is known as an invigorating tonic and antiseptic.

Herbal Baths: Boosts circulation and deep cleans the skin.

Make a herbal bath infusion by using a handful of fresh rosemary in 2-1/2 cups of boiling water. Let it steep for about 10 minutes, then strain it, and add to a warm bath.
Skin soothing bath to relieve itchy skin and achey muscles. Bring 2-1/2 cups apple cider vinegar and a handful of fresh rosemary to boil. Leave overnight, strain, and add to warm bath water.

Facial Steams: Boosts circulation and deep cleans the skin.

Place 3 tablespoons of fresh rosemary in a bowl. Pour 6 cups boiling water over the herb. Stir briefly using a wooden spoon. Make sure to tie your hair back. Hold your face about 12 inches over the steaming water and use a towel to cover your head and the bowl. Make sure to keep your eyes closed. Allow the steam to soak into your skin for bout 10 minutes. Rinse with tepid water.

Hair Rinse: For use after you shampoo. Gives hair a nice sheen and revitalizes the scalp.

1/3 cup rosemary, 4 cups boiling water, 1 tablespoon cider vinegar (for dark hair) or 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (for light hair). Infuse the rosemary in the boiling water, leaving there until the water is cool. Strain the water well and add the vinegar or lemon juice. Pour over hair continuously until your arms get tired. Then soak hair in the rosemary water for a couple of minutes. Dry your hair as usual.

Household Uses
Aromatic Uses: Use in wreaths and potpourri to add fragrance to a room naturally.
Place in linen cabinet among linens to add a fresh scent.
Remove leaves and use a a skewer for kabobs.
Scatter on barbecue to add flavor to food and to discourage insects.

Cleaning: Add a handful of leaves to 2 cups of boiling water. strain well, and pour into a spray bottle. Use to clean fixtures, refrigerator, and counter tops.

Medicinal Uses
Rosemary is said to have medicinal uses such as: Aiding fat digestion
Relieving pain in aching joint
Aiding in relief of dandruff
As an antiseptic mouthwash

As you see, rosemary is a very worthwhile herb to grow. Now you know why it is a favorite herb for many people and has been used for centuries.

2011 copyright

Sage

10/15/2011

Sage

Sage has been revered in many cultures throughout history for it's powers of longevity. The Latin name for sage is salvia which means to be in good health, to cure or to save. The botanical name for the garden variety of sage is Salvia officinalis. Sage is a perennial shrub that grows to 24 inches in height. It has beautiful green gray leaves that grow about 1-2 inches long and it's violet blue flowers are a wonderful way to attract bees to your garden.

Growing Sage
Sage can be grown from seeds, cuttings or as transplants. This herb requires full sun and a well drained soil. It is drought tolerant, so it doesn't require much water. Over watering sage can cause it to become mildewy. Sage does not tolerate frost well so cover it or plant it after the last frost of the season. Like other herbs, sage makes a good container plant. Make sure you place it in a sunny location. Cut sage back and fertilize it often to keep it bushy. If kept from becoming too woody, sage will usually last 3-4 years. Sage leaves should be picked as needed. Make sure to pick the leaves before the flowers appear. When drying sage to save for later, avoid allowing it to become musty.

History of Sage
The Romans thought of sage as a sacred herb. They used great ceremony when gathering it. The selected gatherer would wear a white tunic and offer sacrifices of bread and wine. The Chinese and Persians would would ask "How can a man grow old who has sage in his garden?" Sage was so valued by the Chinese that they would trade three chests of Chinese tea for one chest of sage leaves.

Cooking with Sage
It is believed that sage aids in digesting fatty foods. It adds a wonderful savory flavor to food. Here are some excellent recipes that use sage in them, just remember 1 tablespoon fresh herbs = 1 teaspoon dry herbs.

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/creamy-mushroom-soup.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/halibut-encrusted-with-almonds.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/sirloin-steak-with-sage-butter.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/pork-with-citrus-sage-sauce.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/creamy-orzo-with-mushrooms.html

Using Sage in Skin and Hair Care

•                Sage can be rubbed on your teeth to whiten them.

•                Infused in hot water with mint and allowed to cool, sage can be used as a mouthwash.

•                It can also be used as a facial steam.

•                Infusing sage with green tea makes a wonderful astringent for your skin.

•                Sage has been used since the Middle Ages to get rid of gray hair. Infuse a handful of sage with a pint of hot water, allow to cool and pour over clean hair.

(Infusing- boil hot water and steep a handful of sage leaves in it until the water becomes cool. Remove sage leaves before using.)

Household Uses For Sage

•                Use sage in floral arrangements because of it's wonderful scent, leaves and flowers.

•                Spread dried sage leaves among linens to keep insects away.

•                Put sprigs of sage on a barbecue to helps get rid of cooking smells.

Medicinal Uses For Sage

•                Drink sage tea to aid in digestion, to help reduce sweating, to soothe a cough or sore throat.

•                Never take large doses of sage or use it for long periods.

2011 Copyright

Tarragon

10/7/2011

Tarragon

Tarragon is a perennial herb with woody stems. It has shiny dark green narrow leaves and greenish white flowers that grow in clusters. French tarragon has the botanical name Artemisia dracunculus and is very aromatic. Tarragon grows up to 2 feet in height and spreads very slowly.

Growing Tarragon
If you plan to grow tarragon make sure the ones you purchase are labeled French Tarragon or Culinary Tarragon, other types of tarragon do not have much flavor. Plant transplants in spring after all danger of frost has passed. Tarragon needs 1 inch of water per week and prefers a rich well drained soil. Plant tarragon in full sun to partial shade. For best growth and flavor divide tarragon every three years. Tarragon may die to the ground in colder winter climates but it will grow back in spring.Tarragon makes a wonderful container plant. Harvest leaves as needed. Tarragon can be cut 2 times during its growing season. Once during the first 6-8 weeks of transplanting and again 1 month before frosts begin.

History of Tarragon
The name tarragon is derived from the Latin dracunculus meaning "a little dragon". In the thirteenth century people were encouraged to eat tarragon when taking medication to help improve the flavor of the medicine. Tarragon was thought to cure bites from venomous animals.

Cooking With Tarragon
Tarragon leaves have a bittersweet peppery taste. Tarragon should be used sparingly due to its strong flavor. Here are some great tasting recipes using tarragon.

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/tarragon-spatchcocked-chicken.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/crab-stuffed-chicken.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/tarragon-leeks-sauce.html

Medicinal Uses For Tarragon

•                Infusing tarragon leaves in hot water makes a tea that works as an appetite stimulant.

•                Tarragon is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, iodine and mineral salts.

Thyme

10/2/2011

Thyme

Thymon is the Greek word for courage and is thought to be where the word thyme is derived from. The botanical name for thyme is Thymus. Thyme can be grown as a small shrub or as ground cover. It is wonderful to plant along stepping stones because it releases wonderful aromatic scents when disturbed. There are many different types of thyme, some are lemon scented, others caraway scented.

Growing Thyme

Thyme seeds do not need to be covered with soil. Watering them will wash just enough soil over the tops of them. Plant seeds 8-10 inches apart. This herb needs full sun, a light well-drained soil and 1 inch of water per week. Thyme makes a wonderful container plant. It will keep for years if you harvest the leaves and prune the roots and transplant to a larger pot when needed. Thyme can be grown in greenhouses, just make sure the foliage is kept dry to prevent rot. Cut leaves as needed. If you want to harvest a large amount of leaves wait until mid-summer.

History of Thyme

The Greeks used the expression "to smell of thyme" as a compliment meaning someone had a graceful elegance. They used thyme infused oils for massages. Roman soldiers bathed in thyme water to give them virtue and courage. Thyme was embroidered into tokens by ladies to give to their knights during the Middle Ages. Egyptians knew of thymes preservative and antiseptic qualities. They used thyme to aid in embalming. Thyme is the first herb herb listed in the Holy Herb Charm.

Cooking With Thyme

Common thyme is used in cooking as both a fresh herb and a dried herb. It is added to stocks, soups, marinades and in rubs. It goes well with beef, poultry, fish, seafood, and vegetables. Here are some wonderful recipes that highlight thyme. Remember 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs=1 teaspoon of dried herbs.

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/tomato-and-roasted-red-pepper-soup.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/chicken-quarters-with-roasted-garlic-sauce.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/mediterranean-pork-chops.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/tuna-with-tomatoes-and-herbs.html

•                http://www.fresheasymeals.com/rigatoni-with-tomatoes-and-olives.html

Thyme in Hair and Skin Care

•                Infuse with rosemary and water to use as a hair rinse that will aid with dandruff.

•                Use in baths and facial steams to stimulate circulation and help with skin spots.

•                Make essential oils to use as an antiseptic in toothpastes and mouthwashes.

Household Uses For Thyme

•                Steep in hot water to make a safe household disinfectant.

•                Use to help get rid of mold.

•                Add to potpourri and floral arrangements for it's aromatic scent.

•                Can be used as an air freshener

Medicinal Uses For Thyme

•                Infuse with tea to aid in digestion and to relieve hangovers.

•                Helps relieve sore throats and coughs.

•                Infuse with oil and rub on forehead to help relieve headaches

2011 Copyright

Growing Herbs

9/27/2011

Growing Herbs

So you have always wanted to grow your own herbs and vegetables but thought you never had the time. Maybe you just thought it would be to too difficult or expensive. You can grow both vegetables and herbs even if you have a small yard.
If you have never gardened before or are unsure of how much of a commitment you want to give, you should start small. I would suggest staring with an herb garden. Most herbs can be grown in containers and are pretty fuss free. You can even grow them in the house near a sunny window. Most people like to grow herbs in containers on a kitchen window sill.
Now that you have decided it might not be such a daunting task, you are probably wondering what herbs you should grow. My suggestion is to grow common cooking herbs. Basil, rosemary, oregano, thyme, sage, and parsley are all easy to grow and common in cooking. Any or all of these herbs would be a good choice to begin your garden.

There are two ways to begin your garden. You can buy seeds or transplants. If you want to save money you should begin using seeds. I know it is still freezing in most of the country, but if you are going to plant your herbs outside, now is the time to start thinking of ordering your seeds. I like to use Heirloom Seeds. These are seeds that have not been manipulated to produce certain traits. They are the same plants that people have been using for many, many years. Heirloom plants are also the only type of plants that you can collect the seeds for your next crop, saving you the expense of buying new seed or plants each year.
The other method of planting herbs is to use transplants. This is more costly but faster and easier. With this method you would just set the plants out on the window sill and transplant them into larger pots as needed. You could also wait until after the last frost and plant them in your yard. They make beautiful garden plants, don't take up much room, and can be used in any landscape. Just plant amongst your other plants. Just make sure to label them so you can remember which herb is which. When you are ready to use your herbs in cooking try some of these recipes at fresheasymeals.com. You can find seeds and transplants at seedsavers.com or sustainableseedco.com.
There is nothing stopping you now. It's time to get started. Good luck, and come on back for more tips on growing an edible backyard.

2011 Copyright

Herbs

9/27/2011

Fresh Herbs

I love fresh herbs! I love growing them and cooking with them. The scent and flavor of herbs have enhanced foods for centuries. Every culture from Asian and Indian to European and African have used herbs in cooking. The 16 most common culinary herbs used today are basil, bay leaves, chives, cilantro, coriander, dill, fennel, garlic, marjoram, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, tarragon, and thyme. Using herbs correctly in cooking can transform an ordinary meal into a magnificent one.

Cooking with herbs is easy and fun. If you want to try a new herb you should first smell it then taste it. Think of the the foods you would like to cook with it. An easy way of experimenting with herbs is to add just one herb to some butter. You can use your herb butter on steak, chicken, fish or potatoes. When experimenting with herbs try adding just one at a time to a recipe and taste your creation before adding another herb. Add herbs to sauces, pizzas, salads and soups. Of course you can use my recipes to experiment too. A good rule of thumb when using fresh herbs is 1 tablespoon fresh herbs=1 teaspoon dry herbs.
   It's always best to use fresh herbs when they are available because they have a much more pungent scent and flavor. Having your own herb garden is an easy way to have fresh herbs available year round. If you don't have the room to plant an herb garden outside just choose your favorite herbs and grow them in containers near a sunny window.
   Using the herbs from your garden is as easy as cutting what you need when you need it. You can save your fresh herbs for later use by drying them. Dried herbs should be stored in dark airtight jars for up to a year. Fresh herbs can also be preserved by adding them to oils or vinegars. If you need to buy your herbs from the market store them in plastic bags in the refrigerator.
   Herbs have many uses, not only do they add flavor to the foods we eat but many herbs like mint help in digestion. Herbs are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, for instance, tarragon is a good source of iodine, vitamin A and vitamin C. Chives can stimulate appetites whereas fennel can relieve hunger. If you are interested in growing your own herbs or to find other uses for herbs follow my new blog on herbs.

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Becky

Culinary Herbs

Hello, my name is Becky, I would like to welcome you to My Culinary Herb blog! You will find interesting facts about the most commonly used herbs. You will also find tips on how to use fresh herbs in cooking, skin care and hair care. You can also read more about me.

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