HERBS & SPICES
Not only do herbs and spices add flavor but they are good for your health. By using more of them and less salt, high blood pressure may be avoided. Flavoring vegetables improves our diet and lessons obesity. Lastly, on grilled meats potential carcinogens are decreased.
The difference between herbs and spices is that herbs are the leafy part of plants. Spices are from the woody or non-woody part of the plant. Some examples are: root-like stems (ginger, turmeric), flower buds (capers, cloves), flower stigmas (saffron), fruits (peppercorns, allspice), seeds (cardamom, cumin) and bark (cinnamon). Vegetables such as garlic, onions, celery, and chili peppers are another category of seasoning.
Desserts can benefit with herbs too. Fresh basil pairs well with peaches. Mint is refreshing with strawberries, melons, or fruit salads. Rosemary enhances lemon sorbet and lemon-flavored baked goods. |