Skip to content

5 Dried Herbs You Need in Your Kitchen

Whoever said dynamite comes in small packages must have been thinking about the dried herbs in your kitchen cupboard. They add flavor, depth and a distinctive aroma to any meal (and that’s without getting into their many health benefits), which is why they’ve been used in meal preparation around the world for thousands of years.

Here are the top 5 herbs that you need to keep in your kitchen:

1. Oregano

With its distinctive aroma, Oregano is a herb native to Europe and a staple of many Mediterranean meals, but that’s not all it’s good for. Besides pizza and pasta, Oregano can also be used in most sauces and chili; it likes to play a starring role, so avoid pairing it with too many other intense flavors.

2. Basil

Whether you’re whipping up a basic marinara or a fresh salad, Genovese basil (the most commonly used variety) is sure to be a feature. Don’t be fooled by the strong aroma, the actual taste of basil is noticeably more subtle and most chefs love to pair the herb with tomato-based dishes as the flavors of the tomato and basil complement each other.

3. Sage

Sage is an interesting addition to this list as it’s one that many tend to avoid. It’s excellent in sauces, seasonings and marinades for meat dishes like chicken and turkey, although it also pairs well with pumpkin.

4. Rosemary

The woody, earthy flavors of rosemary make this a versatile herb often added to roasts, root vegetables, stews and soups. It has a powerful flavor profile, so less is often more. Don’t forget to adjust your measurements if your recipe calls for fresh herbs. One teaspoon of dried herbs equals one tablespoon of fresh herbs, so you need to reduce the amount you use to between a quarter and half of what the recipe calls for.

5. Thyme

If you’re looking for a multi-purpose herb that goes well with just about anything, thyme would be a good addition to your dried herb collection. It’s great with chicken, adds depth and flavor to soups and casseroles and can be added to just about any pasta.

The convenience and value of using dried herbs can’t be overestimated due to their ability to transition a dish from bland to tasty in a single moment. So, next time you find yourself standing at the stove, trying to think what to add to your food, don’t forget your dried herbs – they’re all you need to transform your meal.

No comment yet, add your voice below!


Add a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Posts

Recipe

Embracing the Flavours of the Season: Transitioning from Spring to Summer Cooking

As the temperature rises, we find ourselves transitioning from the freshness of spring to the...
Recipe

Best spices for spring cooking

Spring is the season of rejuvenation, and nothing adds more freshness and flavour to your...
Recipe

The Health Benefits of Turmeric: How This Spice Can Boost Your Wellness

Turmeric is a bright orange spice that has been used in traditional medicine for thousands...

Looking for a specific product?
Give us a call at (905) 265-1202

Sign up for our newsletter

Get all the latest trends in the food industry. Get new product updates, chef tips and recipes.

Fully Customizable Spice Gifts Sets!