The Joy Of Cooking With Your Own Herb Garden
Wallace Brigs writes for DIYHydroponics.org and offers tips on finding the right hydroponic gardening system. Visit http://www.DIYHydroponics.org for info on the best plant grow lights for your garden.
If cooking is your passion then you would know what a joy it is to have an herb garden of your own. Fresh garden grown herbs not only liven up your food. Most of them have medicinal qualities too. What is great about growing your own herbs is that you won’t have to settle for the dried and bottled herbs. Your house smells fragrant with the aroma of the leaves. What’s more, herbs enhance the flavor in your dishes and make them stand out.
In order to grow your herb garden, there is one very important thing that you should consider. Space – Consider how much space you have in your home for an herb garden. Just a small patch of soil is all you need. If you don’t have much space in your yard, this is not a problem either. You can always use that space outside your window or your kitchen counter. This will work well for people who live in high-rise apartments that normally don’t have the luxury of space. Also remember that potted herbs will provide a warm, fragrant and very natural accent to your kitchen.
There are many different kinds of herbs. Here are some herbs that people would commonly use:
Oregano – The oregano is widely popular among herb enthusiasts. Known as aromatic and balsamic in flavor, this herb is among the favorites in Italian kitchens. A popular application of the oregano is as flavoring to pasta sauces and soups. It enhances the flavor of pizzas.
Basil – The basil is another famous “Italian” herb. The basil’s flavor is sweet and fragrant. Italian tomato dishes are not complete without a sprinkling of basil. The sweetness of the basil balances off the tartness of the tomato. It is also adds great flavor to meat and vegetable dishes.
Chives – A sprinkling of chopped chives gives great color and life to a dish. Chives freshen up fish dishes and are great additions to soups and sauces. They are also known to improve blood circulation in the body.
Dill – The dill is one herb that is at its best when used fresh. Commonly used as a spice, its applications include flavoring soups and cured salmon. It gives an added punch and gives out sweet aroma to dishes. Dill oil is known to have a calming effect in the stomach and can be used to relieve acidity or indigestion.
Thyme- Thyme is a very popular herb and is used as a flavoring in a wide range of cuisines. However, it is not only in the kitchen that this herb is useful. In ancient Egypt, the people had another use for thyme other than for cooking in the kitchen. During those days, thyme was even used to embalm the dead!
Cilantro – The cilantro is a favorite addition in Mexican cuisine. It is commonly used to flavor sauces, salads, salsas and other Mexican favorites. Like thyme, this is also widely used in many cuisines.
They say variety is the spice of life. There are a lot more that can be part of your garden. Whatever herb you choose, you can never go wrong.
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April 23rd, 2010 - 7:36 pm
I live in a flat/apartment. I really like the idea of having a small herb garden on the counter top. Just need to chose which ones now so really appreciate your herb guide.