Get the most out of fresh herbs in your recipes

Fresh herbs are that final touch that transforms an ordinary recipe into a memorable dish. Their aroma, flavor, and color can elevate any preparation, from a simple salad to an elaborate stew. However, we often don’t know how to handle them properly to make the most of them. In this article from KuokoKitchen, we explain how to get the most out of fresh aromatic herbs in your cooking, with practical tips and essential recommendations.

Why Use Fresh Herbs?

Unlike dried herbs, fresh ones bring a more vibrant flavor and a delicate texture. They’re ideal for finishing dishes or adding just before serving. Plus, many have beneficial nutritional properties: parsley is rich in vitamin C, basil contains antioxidants, and cilantro helps with digestion.

Including fresh herbs in your recipes is not just about flavor, but also about health and presentation. A dish garnished with freshly cut green leaves always looks more appetizing.

Essential Tools for Working with Fresh Herbs

Having the right tools in the kitchen makes a big difference when it comes to handling herbs for cooking. Here are the must-haves:

1. Multi-blade Kitchen Scissors

These scissors are specially designed to quickly cut herbs into even pieces. Their multiple blades allow you to chop without crushing, preserving their aroma and freshness.

2. Sharp Chef’s Knife

If you prefer the traditional method, a good knife is essential. Make sure it’s very sharp to avoid bruising the leaves. A clean cut better preserves the essential oils that give flavor.

3. Bamboo or Silicone Cutting Board

These bamboo cutting boards or silicone ones are gentle and don’t easily absorb odors or colors. They’re also easy to clean, which is ideal when working with herbs that stain, like basil or parsley.

4. Herb Spinner

Drying herbs properly after washing is crucial. A small-sized herb spinner is perfect for removing excess water without damaging the leaves.

5. Mortar and Pestle

To prepare mixes like pesto or chimichurri, a bamboo or stone mortar is ideal. Crushing herbs by hand releases more essential oils than using electric processors.

Storage: How to Keep Them Fresh Longer

Once you buy your fresh herbs, the ideal is to use them soon. But if you need to store them, here are some useful tips:

• In water, like flowers: Place herbs (like parsley, cilantro, or basil) in a glass of water, cover them with a plastic bag, and store in the fridge.
• In damp paper: Wrap them in slightly moistened kitchen paper and store in a ziplock bag.

Freezing: Some herbs like chives or dill can be chopped and frozen in ice cube trays with olive oil.

Tips for Using Them in Your Dishes

• Add them at the end of cooking: Many herbs lose their flavor if cooked for too long. Add them just before serving to preserve their aroma.
• Mix flavors: Try combinations like basil with mint, or rosemary with thyme, to add depth to your dishes.
• Don’t be afraid to use them raw: Herbs aren’t just for cooking. Add them to your salads, sauces, or drinks for a fresh touch.

Easy Recipes to Get Started

If you want to start using fresh herbs, here are some simple ideas:

• Tomato and Basil Salad: All you need is ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, and sea salt.
• Herb Butter: Mix room-temperature butter with parsley, chives, and a bit of garlic. Perfect for meat, fish, or bread.
• Mint and Lemon Infusion: Boil water and add fresh mint leaves and lemon slices. Refreshing and good for digestion.

Making the most of fresh herbs not only enhances your dishes but also turns your kitchen into a more creative and healthy space. With the right tools and a bit of practice, you’ll discover that these little green leaves can work wonders in your recipes.

In our online store of non-toxic kitchen utensils, you’ll find everything you need to work with fresh herbs like a professional chef. Take the step and fill your kitchen with aroma, flavor, and color!