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Aromatic Herbs & Spices
Spices and aromatic herbs are ingredients that are increasingly used in the kitchen, giving a unique flavor to their dishes. Sometimes it happens to confuse one with the other, even if they are different products, but their function is usually the same, that is to flavor the dishes, enhancing their flavor. The taste and benefits of aromatic herbs With the expression aromatic herbs, we generally refer to vegetables or herbs grown in pots and in the garden, but also available in the wild. There are several types, but among the best known products stand out bay laurel, basil, borage, oregano, parsley, thyme and sage. The aromatic herbs in the kitchen are used in many countries: for example pasta with tomato and basil is an indispensable must of Italian cuisine. The nutritional value of aromatic herbs is in itself rather poor, but these are very important ingredients because they vary the palatability of the foods and allow some useful substitutions for the body's well-being, such as spicy herbs as an alternative to salt. The aromatic herbs for sale on Natura d’Oriente are products of the highest quality, ideal for making your dishes tastier and to amaze your guests with unforgettable recipes. The taste and the benefits of aromatic spices The term spices indicate dry vegetable products that generally come from tropical countries or in any case from quite distant places, widely used since the past to preserve and flavor foods. Aromatic spices are obtained from different parts of the plants: cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric and ginger stand out among the most appreciated. Spices and aromatic herbs can give any recipe a unique touch, whether it is a meat dish or a tasty side dish: the secret is to find the right balance!
These fleshy and aromatic leaves of wild garlic show a smell similar to common garlic but more delicate. Perfect for flavoring fish dishes, potatoes, omelettes and for creating wild garlic pesto, suitable for filling ravioli, gnocchi, risotto and handmade pasta. In Northern European cuisine, the leaves are known for flavoring butter and for having healthy properties on the digestive system.
Contemporary phytotherapy uses dill leaves to relieve digestive difficulties and irritation of the oral mucous membranes. The diuretic and purifying properties make it an ally against water retention and cellulite, as it helps eliminate the accumulation of excess fluids. Dill tips are excellent in the kitchen for flavoring fish-based dishes such as salmon, with their spicy and intense flavour.
This aromatic herb gives seeds with a delicate, acidic flavor with a pleasant citrus aftertaste, much appreciated in oriental and Mexican cuisine. Coriander seeds are included in many recipes to give taste, aroma and benefits thanks to the many antioxidants. They protect cells from oxidative damage, help digestion and the body's purifying action.
Coriander is an aromatic herb with a sour flavor and sweet notes, with a citrus aftertaste that evokes lemon. In its ground version, coriander is used as a spice in the kitchen in a practical way for many recipes. It is also known for the benefits of its antioxidants which protect cells from oxidative damage, help digestion and cleanse the body.
Herbs of Provence are a blend of fresh or dried aromatic plants. Unmissable in the recipes of local cuisine, these herbs are used to give the final touch in vegetable-based dishes, in stews, sauces, ragu and in grilled fish and meat, such as that of Sisteron lamb.
Ground fenugreek is a tasty spice with many beneficial properties. Used in cooking for many recipes, with its pungent and slightly bitter taste, it enriches spicy mixtures, first and second courses. It has an emollient action on the digestive system, and positively stimulates the metabolism of carbohydrates and triglycerides.
The beneficial properties of juniper berries were known from the time of the ancient Egyptians. They were in fact used for embalming and for disinfecting rooms. The numerous active ingredients contained in juniper berries give them important therapeutic benefits. Widely used in folk medicine to treat various ailments.
Like all oil seeds, they are a source of fat and protein but are also a reserve of manganese, calcium, Omega 6 and vitamin E. They are also used as a natural remedy for anxiety and as an anti-stress food, a feature that makes them a natural ally in alternative medicines. Finally, poppy seeds help lower blood cholesterol.
Wild fennel flowers are the small inflorescences that form the umbrella of the plant, highly appreciated as a condiment in cooking. They are collected at the beginning of flowering, dried and then "shelled" in order to obtain this fragrant spice, with a complex and balanced taste. The fennel flower is particularly suitable for flavoring pork, mushrooms, aubergines, olives and typical dishes such as snails in a pan.
These small and aromatic seeds are known for their excellent properties, used both in cooking and for beneficial infusions. They give a very intense aroma and a slightly bitter taste to many recipes, appreciated in Asian, French and Cajun cuisines. Celery seeds are excellent for soups, broths, sauces, flavoring meat and the famous celery salt. They contain precious nutrients and antioxidants, useful for our well-being.
Chervil is an officinal and aromatic plant with diuretic and purifying properties, and useful for the respiratory system and against constipation. It is an aromatic herb very similar to parsley, but much more delicate. Rich in vitamin C, carotene, mineral salts, iron, calcium and magnesium, important for muscles and nerves.
Nettle is an excellent nutritional supplement, rich in varied nutrients such as minerals and vitamins. Antioxidants are important for maintaining physical and mental conditions. The use of nettle can also help improve skin, nails, hair, general health conditions, mood stabilization and sleep quality.
