Dried Herbs: Unleashing the Flavors and Health Benefits of Cooking with Dried plants
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Dried Herbs |
Dried Herbs
as Nutritious Additions to Meals
Dried
plants offer numerous health benefits when added to foods. Being low in calories
yet high in nutrients, herbs can significantly boost the nutritional value of
meals. Herbs are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
Incorporating different dried plants into meals is an easy way to obtain a wide
range of these essential nutrients.
Herbs Pack Antioxidants
Almost all culinary herbs are rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, phenolic
acids, and carotenoids. Many dried plants contain higher antioxidant levels
than fresh Dried
Herbs. The drying process helps concentrate the antioxidants. Regular
consumption of antioxidant-rich herbs protects cells from damage and reduces
risks of chronic illnesses. Common high-antioxidant herbs include oregano,
thyme, basil, sage and rosemary.
Herbs Add Vitamins and Minerals
Beyond antioxidants, dried plants also provide vitamins and minerals. For
example, oregano is a good source of iron, vitamin K, manganese and dietary
fiber. Thyme contains calcium, iron, manganese and vitamin K. Basil is rich in
vitamin A, K and dietary fiber. Dried sage contains calcium, iron, vitamin K
and antioxidants. Just a teaspoon of these herbs adds beneficial nutrients to
meals with few calories.
Different Herbs, Different Health Perks
While all culinary herbs offer general health benefits, certain dried plants
provide additional medicinal qualities relevant to particular health
conditions. Here are some examples:
Dry Rosemary Supports Brain Health
Rosemary is one of the most potent herb sources of carnosic acid, a potent
antioxidant that readily crosses the blood-brain barrier. Regular consumption
of dried rosemary may help protect brain cells, sharpen memory and reduce risks
of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease. Studies show rosemary
promotes cognitive function.
Dried Herbs Oregano Benefits Digestion
Along with being packed with antioxidants, oregano is high in fiber and
contains phytonutrients carvacrol and thymol. These compounds give oregano
strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe
gastrointestinal issues like bloating, gas and indigestion. Its fiber also aids
regularity.
Thyme Fights Respiratory Infections
Thyme has powerful antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effects useful for
respiratory infections. The high concentration of antioxidants in dried thyme
attacks pathogens and reduces inflammation in the lungs and nasal passages,
preventing colds, flu and respiratory infections from taking hold.
Basil Boosts Immune Function
Basil is loaded with vitamin A and other immunity-boosting antioxidants and
phytonutrients. Research shows basil extract promotes the activity and number
of infection-fighting white blood cells in the immune system. Using dried basil
regularly in meals may lead to stronger immunity.
Easy Ways to Use Dried plants in Meals
There are many simple ways to incorporate different dried plants into a variety
of dishes to boost nutrition and flavor. Here are some popular methods:
- Sprinkle dried basil, oregano, thyme or rosemary over pastas, soups, stews,
eggs, salads and roasted vegetables before serving.
- Add dried mint, basil or cilantro to hummus, tzatziki, pesto or other dips.
- Use dried thyme, sage or oregano to season meats before roasting, grilling or
pan frying.
- Mix finely chopped dried rosemary or sage into butter or olive oil then use
as a seasoning or cooking fat.
- Toss dried plants with homemade trail mix, nuts or seeds for a healthy snack.
- Steep dried plants in hot water to make antioxidant-rich herbal tea.
- Blend dried plants into oatmeal, yogurt, rice dishes or other breakfast
foods.
- Add dried plants straight to cooked rice, quinoa, barley or other grains for flavor.
- Stir dried plants into soups, casseroles and pasta sauces during cooking.
By experimenting with different herb combinations, dishes can take on infinite
layers of nutritious and delicious flavors. Even a small amount of dried plants
goes a long way.
Storing Dried plants Properly
To preserve optimal nutrition and potency, it's important to store dried
culinary herbs correctly. Place herbs in airtight glass jars away from direct
sunlight. The refrigerator provides cool, dark conditions to help keep herbs
fresh for 6-12 months. Discard any herbs that aren't as fragrant or vividly
colored after a year.
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Herbs
About Author:
Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market
research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from
different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology,
healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191)
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