Fresh Coriander is the Best! A BIG Shout-out to all the Coriander / Cilantro / Dhaniya lovers! Anytime is a good time to grow Coriander in your garden and enjoy an abundance of fresh leaves. Such joy to go out and pick fresh bunches of leaves every day. Only a lack of imagination will limit […]
At this time of year it is appropriate to reflect that herbs are the most generous of plants, with a cornucopia for gifts for the gardener. Plant a herb garden and you have at your fingertips plants that flavour food, heal common ailments, lift the spirits, help dull hair to shine, keep pets happy, perfume […]
It seems like bad timing that just as salad season reaches its peak, the heat makes lettuce bolt. One way of getting round that is to grow the loose leaf or multi-leaf lettuce varieties, from which individual leaves can be harvested. They are less likely to bolt if planted in a cooler part of the […]
Bathing by candlelight in a scented bath is still one of the most romantic ways to relax. The natural way to do it is with fragrant herbs that soothe away the stress. Herbal baths combine the therapeutic effects of water and the particular actions of herbs. Warm water quietens and soothes the body, slowing down […]
Herbs for Happy Hour Drinks As summer heats up the idea of a long, cool drink is especially appealing. Herbs with a tropical tang, like pineapple or lemon, are the most popular for flavouring cocktails and coolers. The hint of lemon grass, lemon balm or lemon verbena is particularly refreshing while pineapple sage and pineapple […]
Coriander is one of those herbs that can evoke a strong reaction. Here’s a clue; Coriandrum comes from the Greek word “coris’ meaning ‘bedbug’, because of the similar odour of the leaves. The fresh leaves may be an acquired taste for Western palates but are an essential ingredient in many Southern Asian and Chinese dishes. […]
Rosemary How easy it is to take rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) for granted. Once it is in the garden it is just there – doesn’t demand water, doesn’t over-grow everything, and doesn’t mind heat or cold. Winter is a fine time to become reacquainted with this herb. It flavours succulent roasts, can be added to bathwater […]
Classic French cuisine is both sophisticated and simple and herbs are an essential ingredient. Subtly flavoured herbs like tarragon, chervil, chives, and fennel are used with a light touch, while thyme is favoured for the robust flavour it imparts to casseroles, roasts and soup. BOX: Traditional herb combinations The French use herbs differently, making their […]
Lemon flavoured herbs Only a hint of lemon is needed to add zest to food and enhance delicate flavours. While lemony herbs have a more subtle taste compared to pure lemon juice they are just as useful as a natural flavouring. Lemon grass, lemon verbena, lemon balm, and lemon thyme can be used in salads […]
Herbal Vinegar Making a batch of vinegar infused with delicious fresh herbs is simple following the directions below. Flavoured vinegar can be a great gift idea for holidays or birthdays, and even as a hostess gift at gatherings. It can also be great to cook with at home and will taste fresher than the store […]