When it comes to cooking, herbs are an essential ingredient that can add flavor and depth to any dish. While many people opt for pre-packaged herbs, there is something special about crushing your own herbs by hand. Not only does it allow you to control the texture and intensity of the herbs, but it also releases their essential oils, resulting in a more flavorful and aromatic dish.
To start, it’s important to choose the right herbs for your dish. Fresh herbs are always the best option, but if they’re not available, dried herbs can be a suitable substitute. Some herbs, such as basil and parsley, are best crushed by hand to release their flavor, while others, like rosemary and thyme, are better chopped finely. It’s important to experiment with different techniques to find what works best for each herb.
Once you’ve selected your herbs, it’s time to start crushing them. The most common method is to use a mortar and pestle, which allows you to grind the herbs into a fine powder. Alternatively, you can use a rolling pin or the flat side of a knife to crush the herbs on a cutting board. Whatever method you choose, be sure to take your time and work in small batches to ensure the herbs are evenly crushed.
Preparing Herbs
Gathering Herbs
Before preparing herbs, the first step is to gather them. One can either buy fresh herbs from a grocery store or grow them in a garden. It is important to choose herbs that are fresh and have a good smell. Some of the commonly used herbs for cooking include basil, rosemary, sage, parsley, thyme, mint, and oregano.
Washing Herbs
Once the herbs are gathered, the next step is to wash them. To do this, one can fill a bowl with water and place the herbs in it. The herbs should be swirled around in the water to remove any dirt or debris. If the herbs are particularly dirty, the process can be repeated with fresh water. It is important to use a lot of water when washing herbs to allow the dirt to settle and the herbs to float clear.
Drying Herbs
After washing the herbs, it is important to dry them thoroughly. One can do this by placing the herbs on a clean towel and patting them dry gently. Alternatively, one can use a salad spinner to remove excess water. It is important to ensure that the herbs are completely dry before proceeding to the next step.
Crushing Herbs
The final step in preparing herbs is to crush them. This can be done using a knife or a mortar and pestle. To chop herbs with a knife, one can gather the leaves and stems together and slice them into small pieces. To crush herbs with a mortar and pestle, one can place the herbs in the mortar and grind them with the pestle until they are finely crushed.
Overall, preparing herbs for cooking is a simple process that involves gathering, washing, drying, and crushing the herbs. By following these steps, one can ensure that the herbs are clean and ready to be used in food.
Cooking with Crushed Herbs
When it comes to cooking with fresh herbs, crushing them can release their full flavor and aroma. Here are some ways to use crushed herbs in your cooking:
Adding Herbs to Recipes
Crushed herbs can be added to a variety of recipes, such as soups, stews, marinades, and pastas. Simply sprinkle them over the dish towards the end of cooking to add a burst of flavor. For example, crushed bay leaves can add depth to a borscht, while crushed marjoram can enhance the flavor of roasted potatoes.
Using Crushed Herbs in Salads
Crushed herbs can also be used to add flavor to salads. Mix them with a vinaigrette or sprinkle them over the salad as a garnish. For example, crushed dill can add a fresh taste to a cucumber salad, while crushed mint can complement the sweetness of an apple salad.
Making Herb Sauces and Pesto
Crushed herbs can be used to make herb sauces and pesto. Simply combine them with garlic, olive oil, and other seasonings to create a flavorful sauce. For example, crushed basil can be used to make a classic Genovese pesto, while crushed Thai basil can add a spicy kick to a stir-fry sauce.
Pickling Herbs
Crushed herbs can also be used for pickling vegetables. Simply add them to the pickling liquid along with other spices and seasonings. For example, crushed Mexican oregano can add a smoky flavor to pickled jalapenos.
When using crushed herbs, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Alternatively, freeze them in ice cube trays with a little bit of olive oil for later use.
Overall, using crushed herbs can add depth and complexity to your dishes, and is a great way to make the most of your fresh herbs.
Storing Crushed Herbs
When it comes to storing crushed herbs, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that they remain fresh and fragrant for as long as possible. Here are some tips on how to store your crushed herbs properly.
Storing Fresh Herbs
If you have freshly crushed herbs, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. One way to do this is to wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. The damp paper towel will help keep the herbs hydrated and prevent them from drying out, while the plastic bag will help keep them fresh.
Another way to store fresh herbs is to keep them in a glass of cold water. Simply trim the ends of the herbs and place them in a glass of cold water, making sure that the stems are submerged. Cover the glass with a plastic bag and store it in the refrigerator. This method works particularly well for herbs like basil, parsley, and cilantro.
Freezing Crushed Herbs
If you have an excess of crushed herbs that you won’t be able to use before they go bad, freezing them is a great option. To freeze crushed herbs, simply place them in an airtight container or plastic bag and store them in the freezer. Frozen herbs can last up to six months.
Storing Dried Herbs
If you have dried crushed herbs, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their flavor and aroma. The best way to do this is to store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Avoid storing them in a place that is exposed to light, as this can cause the herbs to lose their essential oils and flavor.
It’s also important to make sure that your dried herbs are completely dry before storing them. If there is any excess water left in the herbs, it can cause them to mold or spoil.
In conclusion, by following these simple tips for storing crushed herbs, you can ensure that your herbs remain fresh, fragrant, and flavorful for as long as possible.
