Golden Spices: What is the difference between herbs and spices?
The difference between herbs and spices
We often use the words herb and spice interchangeably. Herbs and spices are obtained from plants. Salt is neither a spice nor an herb. It is a mineral. Herbs and spices are used primarily for adding flavour and aroma to food. And both are best used fresh but can be saved by drying. While there are similarities, there also are subtle differences between herbs and spices.
The essential difference between herbs and spices lies with what part of the plant they originate from. An herb is a leaf or other green plant of the plant. Any other element of the plant would be considered a spice—including dried bark, the roots, a berry, seeds, twigs, or other plant matter that is used to season or flavour a dish.
What are herbs?
Herbs are obtained from the leaves of herbaceous (non-woody) plants. They are used for savoury purposes in cooking, and some have medicinal value. Herbs often are used in larger amounts than spices. Herbs originated from temperate climates such as Italy, France, and England. Herb also is a word used to define any herbaceous plant that dies down at the end of the growing season and may not refer to its culinary value at all.
Examples of Herbs:
- Thyme
- Sage
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Marjoram
- Basil
- Chives
- Rosemary
- Mint
A tip for storing herbs: Herbs can simply be placed in freezer containers or bags and placed in a freezer.
What are spices?
Spices are obtained from roots, flowers, fruits, seeds, or bark. Spices are native to warm tropical climates and can be woody or herbaceous plants. Spices often are more potent and stronger flavoured than herbs; as a result they typically are used in smaller amounts. Some spices are used not only to add taste, but also as a preservative.
Examples of Spices:
- Cinnamon - bark of the cinnamon tree
- Ginger - root
- Cloves - flower bud
- Saffron - stigma (female reproductive part) of saffron crocus
- Nutmeg - seed
- Vanilla - undeveloped fruit of an orchid
- Cumin – seed
A tip for storing spices: Spices last longer when stored in a cool, dry location. So, keeping jars of spices right next to your stove will significantly reduce their useful life. An enclosed spice rack or storing them in an opaque container will help your spices keep their flavour longer.
How to use herbs and spices together?
These combinations are just an example of how multiple combinations of herbs and spices can be layered to create a flavour profile. Balance is the key word. While the spices add bold strokes of flavour the herbs add a subtleness to it. Herbs are not only used for flavouring but are also used as a garnish, not only adding flavour but visual appeal to the dish. Spices could be used for garnish but are not as popular as herbs.
Herbs and spices are also functional ingredients, contributing more than just flavour. Many herbs and spices have long been used for their ability to reduce growth of bacteria in foods. For example, it is known that certain herbs and spices – including clove, cinnamon, thyme, oregano and rosemary – can function as antibacterial agents in food.
Golden Spices, quality herbs and spices
At Golden Spices it is our business to supply high quality products to all our customers, and yours. We strive to add flavour to your food and meat products included. If you want to know more about our quality range of products to help you on your culinary journey, feel free to get in touch with us.
If you would like to know more about the range of herbs, spices, and marinades that we have to offer for resale, get in touch with us at info@goldenspices.co.za
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Reference: https://www.butchersa.co.za/seasoning-and-flavouring-for-meats/