Herbs that you can easily grow in your room
Having at least some herbs handy at home is definitely a good idea. But if you want to have access at all times you should grow your own herbs in your garden. However, if you do not have a garden you may still be able to grow some herbs indoors and have some handy when you need them most. Few basil leaves will certainly improve almost any salad. The same goes to thyme and for other common herbs that we cannot do without. So, let us give you a small list of herbs that you should definitely have handy at home.
Basil. A great aromatic herb
Basil is widely used especially in Italian cuisine but also in many other cuisines all over the world. Its annual form is grown in many regions. Basil loves heat and comes in many different varieties, from sweet large leaves to spicy Thai. Basil also offers many health and nutritional benefits and it is an important source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
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Great rosemary
A woody perennial known for its typical woody scent reminiscent of pine and for a strong flavour, which can be described as a cross between sage and lavender. Rosemary is used to season poultry, meat, stews and various casseroles. The less woody and delicate type is grown as an annual even in colder zones. Small plants should be brought inside for the winter because they will have a hard time to survive outside without some type of cover.
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Oregano. No pizza is complete without oregano
In addition to mint, oregano is the very foundation of Italian and Mexican cuisine. The robust spicy flavour is used for poultry, beans, spaghetti and pizza, of course. This undemanding plant is resilient and you can grow it indoors or outdoors.
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Incredibly fragrant lavender
This popular Mediterranean perennial is known for its soothing scent and therapeutic properties. Buds are used in various food and recipes or preserved in a many ways. For example in as essential oils, bath salts, bags and potpourris. Although lavender prefers to be outdoor under hot and dry conditions, you can also grow it in a sunny spot indoors and you can do it either from seeds or small plants.
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The common vervain and an intense citrus scent
Verbena officinalis is known for high content of essential oils and for releasing an intense citrus scent, especially when you brush against the leaves. Leaves are used as a refreshing addition to fish and poultry dishes, dressings, jams and drinks. It offers many health benefits too and it is also used in potpourris and even in various cleaning products. You can grow this delicate perennial in a container in cooler spots, but you need to bring it indoors for the winter.
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No one can do without parsley
One of the most common and easiest herbs to grow is parsley. Its slightly bitter flavour has become an icon of taste and it is used to enhance the taste of soups, stews, salads. Parsley is a very common ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine. It also improves digestion and contains plenty of vitamins A and C.
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Unique taste of sage
Sharp pine-like flavour of sage is best when combined with other strong-flavoured herbs such as rosemary, thyme or bay leaf. It is often used to season meats, sauces, root vegetables and various stews. This perennial shrub can grow outdoors but you can also grow it indoors from seeds on a sunny windowsill for example.
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Tarragon, the herb of connoisseurs
French tarragon is a typical ingredient in Béarnaise sauce and chicken salads. Its also works well in soups, egg and seafood dishes. This fast-growing herb does best outdoors in a sunny and well-drained location.
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Common thyme
The strong and earthy flavour of thyme is commonly used in European, African and Latin cuisine to enhance stews, roasted vegetables and soups. It is also a part of marinades, teas and cocktails. You can grow this carefree and happy perennial outdoors or indoors from seed.
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Chives, the most popular herb in our part of the world?
Chives can almost be a substitute for garlic. It has a mild flavour that gets even softer when cooked. The typical long grassy leaves are finely chopped and used to flavour eggs, fish, potatoes and soups. Ball shaped flowers are edible. Did you know that?
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Ever-growing mint
The clean and refreshing taste of mint has been utilized by the Mediterranean and Asian cuisine for ages. In addition to the typical peppermint flavour there are also pineapple and even chocolate-like flavours. Its pungent leaves offer a range of health benefits mainly related to digestion. We all know peppermint flavoured tea, yogurt, salads and even main dishes. Mint can grow anywhere, so it is a good idea to grow it in a flower pot and have it handy at all times.
Photo: Pixabay
Unique dill
Sharp and characteristic taste of dill is most often utilized in marinades and brines during various pickling processes but probably the most popular use of dill is to enhance the taste of lamb, fish, salads and vegetables. It also offers therapeutic benefits mainly used to support digestion and to reduce swelling and spasms. It is easily grown from seeds.
Photo: Pixabay
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Gardening is my hobby, I have a lot of experience and I am happy to share it.
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