Introduction
Herbs are an essential part of every kitchen pantry. Not only do they add vibrant flavors and aromas to your meals, but they also boast a variety of health benefits. From basil to bay leaves, there are many herbs to choose from, each with its own unique flavor and health benefits. In this article, we’ll explore the top 20 herbs that every home chef should have on hand and how to use them in creative recipes.
List of the 20 Most Commonly Used Herbs in the Kitchen
When it comes to herbs, there is no shortage of options. Here is a list of the 20 most commonly used herbs in the kitchen:
- Basil
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Rosemary
- Parsley
- Sage
- Mint
- Dill
- Tarragon
- Chives
- Garlic
- Marjoram
- Coriander
- Bay Leaves
- Fennel
- Savory
- Cilantro
- Lavender
- Curry Leaves
The Top 20 Herbs Every Home Chef Should Have on Hand
Every home chef should have these 20 herbs on hand for their culinary adventures. Here are some tips for shopping for and storing herbs:
Shopping Tips
If you’re shopping for fresh herbs, look for ones with vibrant color and fragrant aroma. Avoid wilted herbs, as they may be past their prime. If you’re shopping for dried herbs, make sure to check the expiration date. For more intense flavor, purchase whole dried herbs instead of pre-ground.
Storing Tips
Fresh herbs should be stored in the refrigerator in a sealed plastic bag or container. Dried herbs should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Both fresh and dried herbs should be used within six months of purchase.
A Guide to Cooking with 20 of the Most Popular Herbs
Now that you know which herbs to buy and store, it’s time to learn how to use them! Here’s a guide to cooking with 20 of the most popular herbs:
Flavor Profiles
Each herb has its own distinct flavor profile. Basil is sweet and peppery; oregano is earthy and pungent; thyme is lemony and slightly bitter; rosemary is piney and woodsy; parsley is bright and grassy; sage is sweet and savory; mint is cooling and refreshing; dill is sweet and salty; tarragon is anise-like and herbal; chives are mild and onion-like; garlic is pungent and spicy; marjoram is sweet and citrusy; coriander is nutty and citrusy; bay leaves are woodsy and mild; fennel is sweet and anise-like; savory is peppery and herbal; cilantro is tangy and citrusy; lavender is floral and slightly sweet; and curry leaves are pungent and aromatic.
Pairing Tips
Certain herbs pair better with certain ingredients. For example, basil is great with tomatoes, oregano pairs well with olives, thyme goes well with potatoes, rosemary is delicious with roasted vegetables, parsley is wonderful in salads, sage is perfect for stuffing, mint adds brightness to fruit dishes, dill is excellent with seafood, tarragon is wonderful with chicken, chives are fantastic in omelets, garlic is great with almost anything, marjoram is perfect with mushrooms, coriander is lovely with legumes, bay leaves enhance the flavor of soups and stews, fennel is delicious with fish, savory is wonderful with beans, cilantro is great with Mexican dishes, lavender is lovely in desserts, and curry leaves are great in Indian curries.
Substitutions
If you don’t have a particular herb on hand, you can always substitute it with another. For instance, if you don’t have basil, use oregano; if you don’t have oregano, use thyme; if you don’t have thyme, use rosemary; and so on. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Exploring the 20 Essential Herbs for Delicious Meals
Now that you know all about the 20 essential herbs for delicious meals, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen! Here are some ideas for incorporating herbs into your meals:
Creative Recipes
Herbs are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Try adding fresh herbs to salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, pizza, omelets, soups, stews, sauces, marinades, and grilled meats. Or use dried herbs to season roasted vegetables, baked goods, and slow cooker dishes. You can even make your own herbed oils, vinegars, and butter spreads.
Health Benefits
In addition to being flavorful and versatile, herbs are also packed with nutrients. Many herbs contain vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium. Herbs are also rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals, which can help reduce inflammation and boost immunity. So not only do herbs add flavor to your meals, but they can also provide numerous health benefits.
Conclusion
Herbs are an essential part of every kitchen pantry. Not only do they add vibrant flavors and aromas to your meals, but they also boast a variety of health benefits. From basil to bay leaves, there are many herbs to choose from, each with its own unique flavor and health benefits. Now that you know the top 20 herbs to have on hand and how to use them in creative recipes, you’re ready to start exploring the world of herbs and incorporating them into your meals.
