When it comes to cooking, there is simply no comparison between fresh and dried herbs. Fresh herbs bring a superior flavor and taste to raw meals like salads, dressings, pesto, and garnishes. However, they do require a bit more preparation. Washing, stripping, and chopping fresh herbs can be quite time-consuming, but fear not! There is a tool that can help you prepare them faster – the herb remover.
Herb strippers, as the name suggests, are designed to remove leaves from stems. They come in various sizes to accommodate different herbs. Simply insert the stem into the smallest hole it will fit into and drag it through until all the leaves fall off. Some herb strippers even have blades, making it possible to both strip and chop the herbs with the same handy tool. Others have attached bowls to catch the leaves as they pass through the openings. It’s a game-changer that has the potential to revolutionize the way you cook with fresh herbs.
The convenience and efficiency of the herb stripper may inspire you to use fresh herbs more frequently in your recipes. It might even encourage you to explore different herbs that you’ve never tried before. So here are a few pointers to keep in mind.
To begin, always wash and dry any fresh herbs you purchase to remove any pests or dirt. Wrap the herbs in paper towels and place them in sealable bags to keep them fresh. Just remember to use them within a few days to get the most flavor out of them.
Let’s take a closer look at some popular herbs and how to make the most of their unique flavors.
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Basil: Known for its sweet and slightly spicy taste, basil is widely used in Mediterranean recipes and is a key ingredient in pesto. Add the leaves, not the stems, near the end of the cooking process to maximize the flavor.
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Rosemary: With its fantastic woody and pine-like flavor, rosemary is perfect for dishes like lamb chops, poultry, roast beef, and roasted potatoes. It can even add a delightful twist to flatbread, sweet potato fries, and desserts like cake.
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Cilantro: This herb, also known as coriander leaf, has a bright and zesty flavor that is popular in Asian and Latin American cuisine. It can be enjoyed both raw and cooked, adding a flavorful touch to a variety of dishes without overpowering them.
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Dill: With its fresh and earthy flavor, dill is a frequent addition to German and Scandinavian cuisine. It pairs well with poultry, yogurt, shellfish, salads, soups, and even egg dishes like quiche.
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Marjoram: While milder than oregano, marjoram still packs a punch. It complements vegetables, meats, salads, soups, sauces, fish, and more. Don’t discard the stems – they can be used to enhance the flavor of stocks and soups.
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Thyme: This herb is a staple in French cuisine, thanks to its floral scent and powerful flavor. Use a herb remover to make thyme preparation a breeze. It goes well with roast chicken, bread, potatoes, and even cocktails.
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Mint: Beyond its association with drinks and pastries, mint can be a versatile addition to your meals. It pairs well with salads, poultry, curries, sandwiches, and can even dress up a fruit salad.
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Parsley: Fresh and delicate, parsley is a useful and popular herb. The leaves are the most effective, but the stems can also be used in cooking. Use it as a garnish to season soups or to add a touch of freshness to salads. The possibilities are endless, but parsley particularly complements pasta, butter, eggs, and lemon.
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Oregano: With its strong taste, oregano is a must-have in recipes like chili, pasta sauces, and pizza. Unlike more delicate herbs, oregano can handle heat, so add it at the start of the cooking process. Just remember to use it sparingly, so it doesn’t overpower the other ingredients. Save the stems to flavor stocks and soups.
By using fresh herbs in your cooking, you can elevate the flavor of your dishes and add a touch of freshness to your meals. Embrace the convenience of a herb remover and discover the endless possibilities that await you in the world of herbs. Happy cooking!
