Using herbs to boost your cooking skills
Cooking with herbs is a fantastic way to add flavour and depth to your dishes. Herbs are versatile and can be used in various cooking methods, from adding them to marinades, rubs, and sauces to cooking them with your vegetables and meats. In this article, we will explore some of the most commonly used herbs and how to use them to take your cooking skills to the next level.
Basil
Basil is a herb that comes in a variety of colours, including green, purple, and red. It has a sweet and slightly peppery flavour, which makes it perfect for salads, pizzas, pesto sauce, and pasta dishes. Basil is best used fresh and is ideal for garnishing dishes. Its aromatic qualities make it the perfect ingredient for when you want to add some fresh flavours to your cooking.
Cumin
Cumin is an earthy spice that originates from the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. It has a slightly bitter flavour with a hint of smokiness. Cumin is mostly used in spice blends and rubs, curries, and stews to add depth and warmth to dishes. It is best used ground, but you can also use whole seeds when toasting or frying them.
Thyme
Thyme is a herb that comes in various varieties, most commonly used in cooking is the common thyme. It has a warm, earthy flavour with a hint of sweetness and is a staple in European cooking. Thyme is perfect for adding flavour to meat and poultry dishes, as well as soups and stews. It also pairs well with garlic, bay leaves, and rosemary.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a herb that has a sweet, slightly resinous flavour. It is native to the Mediterranean and is a staple in Italian and Greek cuisine. Its distinct aroma makes it perfect for marinades, rubs, and sauces for meat and poultry dishes. It is also a favourite herb for grilling and roasting and is perfect for adding to roasted vegetables.
Sage
Sage is a herb that has a strong, slightly bitter flavour. It is commonly used in stuffing for poultry dishes and pairs well with fatty meats such as pork and duck. Sage is also perfect for adding to pasta dishes and risottos. Its aromatic flavour makes it a perfect herb for use in teas and as a garnish for cocktails.
Parsley
Parsley is a herb that comes in two varieties, curly and flat-leaf. It has a fresh, slightly peppery flavour and is mostly used as a garnish for salads, soups, and sauces. However, parsley is also perfect for adding flavour to dishes such as meatballs, meatloaf, and pasta dishes. It pairs well with garlic, lemon, and vinegar and can be used as a substitute for cilantro if you are not a fan of its soapy taste.
Mint
Mint is a herb that has a refreshing, cool flavour. It is perfect for adding to desserts, cocktails, and teas. Mint pairs well with chocolate and fruit and is perfect for making Mojitos and other cocktails. It is also an excellent herb for use in salad dressings and marinades for lamb and chicken dishes. Mint can be used fresh or dried and is ideal for use in infusions and syrups.
Conclusion
In conclusion, herbs are a fantastic way to add flavour and depth to your cooking skills. They are versatile and can be used in various cooking methods, from marinades to soups and stews. Using herbs to enhance your cooking skills is a great way to experiment with new flavours and techniques. By experimenting with different herbs, you can elevate your dishes to a whole new level of deliciousness. So, go ahead and explore the world of herbs and discover how to use them to boost your cooking skills!