Easy to Grow for Anyone! Characteristics and Uses of Popular Herbs
- Erika
- Apr 6, 2023
- 4 min read
Are you interested in starting your own herb garden, but don't know where to begin? Look no further! In this article, we will introduce you to some popular herbs that are easy to grow and use in various ways.
Characteristics and Uses of Herbs | Points to Consider When Using Herbs |
Over 10,000 Types of Herb
There is no plant called 'herb', and the term is used to refer to plants that have fragrances useful for daily life. The classification of herbs is ambiguous since the same plant may be classified as a 'herb' or a 'spice' depending on the country or use.
Therefore, it is said that there are over 10,000 types of herbs, and not only well-known herbs such as mint and basil, but also herbs like shiso, dokudami, and yuzu are appreciated as herbs.
How to Successfully Grow Herbs: Tips and Tricks
Growing herbs can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be frustrating if you're not seeing the results you want. Fortunately, there are some simple tips and tricks you can follow to increase your chances of successfully growing herbs.
First and foremost, it's important to choose the right location for your herbs. Most herbs need at least six hours of sunlight per day, so find a spot that gets plenty of sun. You'll also want to make sure the soil is well-draining and nutrient-rich. If the soil in your chosen spot isn't ideal, consider planting your herbs in containers with good-quality potting soil.
Another important factor in growing herbs is watering. Over-watering can be just as damaging as under-watering, so be sure to water your herbs only when the soil is dry to the touch. It's also a good idea to water from the bottom up, as this allows the roots to absorb moisture more efficiently.
Finally, don't be afraid to prune your herbs regularly. This will help them grow bushier and produce more leaves. And don't forget to harvest your herbs regularly, as this will encourage new growth and keep your plants healthy.
Characteristics and Uses of Western Herbs
When you think of herbs, most of the ones that come to mind are probably Western herbs, aren't they? Here we introduce herbs that have been beloved in Europe and other Western countries for a long time.
basil
-Characteristics
A strong and refreshing aromatic perennial herb that prefers sunny and well-drained soil.
-Uses
Its fresh leaves are commonly used in salads and pizzas, and the Genovese sauce made by blending it with olive oil is a great way to fully enjoy the flavor of basil.
Coriander (Cilantro)
-Characteristics
It has a unique and distinctive strong aroma and is rich in vitamins. It grows well in soil that receives plenty of sunlight and has good drainage.
-Uses
Its seeds are used as a spice in dishes like curry, while the leaves and stems are used as a flavoring vegetable in ethnic cuisine.
Parsley
-Characteristics
It has a refreshing bitterness and strong aroma, and is rich in vitamins and minerals. It grows well even indoors.
-Uses
It is versatile and can be used fresh or dried, and is used to add color and flavor to dishes of various genres.
Mint
-Characteristics
Mint is a perennial herb with a refreshing and cool scent, and it prefers well-drained soil in partial shade.
-Uses
It is not only used in beverages such as mojitos and mint tea, but also for purposes such as bath salts and insect repellent.
Rosemary
-Characteristics
A perennial herb with a refreshing and strong aroma, it prefers well-drained soil with good sunlight and weak alkaline soil.
-Uses
Used to flavor meat dishes such as lamb, as well as being popular in soaps and bath salts.
Arugula
-Characteristics
Arugula is a perennial herb with a sesame-like fragrance that prefers a sunny, weak alkaline soil.
-Uses
Although it is often used raw as a topping for salads and pasta, it can also be delicious when stir-fried.
Lemongrass
-Characteristics
A perennial herb with a lemon-like aroma. As it is vulnerable to cold, it is best to plant it outdoors after the risk of frost has passed.
-Uses
It is popular as an herb used to add fragrance to ethnic cuisine and as an easy-to-enjoy herbal tea.
Italian Parsley
-Characteristics
A biennial herb with a milder flavor compared to parsley. It prefers soil with good drainage and weak alkaline properties with good sunlight.
-Uses
It has less unique flavor compared to parsley, making it ideal as a flavoring vegetable in dishes such as salads and sautéed dishes.
Rhubarb
-Characteristics
A refreshing and sour perennial herb that prefers sunny and moist soil.
-Uses
The edible part is the stem, and rhubarb jam and syrup are deliciously addictive because of their sweet and sour taste.
Lemon Balm
-Characteristics
A perennial herb with a lemon-like aroma that prefers sunny and well-drained soil.
-Uses
It is used as an accent in salads and sauces, as well as for potpourri and herbal teas.
Points to Consider When Using Herbs
Using herbs can add wonderful flavor and aroma to your cooking, but there are a few things to keep in mind to get the most out of them.
Choose the right herb for the dish. Different herbs have different flavors and intensities, so be sure to choose one that complements the other ingredients in the dish.
Use fresh herbs whenever possible. Fresh herbs have a stronger flavor and aroma than dried ones, so they can make a bigger impact on the dish.
Be careful not to overuse herbs. While they can add great flavor, using too much can overwhelm the dish and make it unappetizing.
Add herbs towards the end of the cooking process. Herbs can lose their flavor if cooked for too long, so it's best to add them towards the end of cooking or even as a garnish.
Store herbs properly. To keep them fresh, store fresh herbs in a container with a damp paper towel in the fridge. Dried herbs should be stored in a cool, dark place in an airtight container.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your herbs and create delicious and flavorful dishes.
The Bottom Line
Growing your own herbs is a fun and rewarding experience. Not only do they add flavor to your meals, but they also provide numerous health benefits. Whether you have a large garden or a small balcony, there is always room for an herb garden. So, get started today and enjoy the benefits of fresh herbs in your cooking!
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