Universal dried herb seasoning (homemade)

Universal Dried Herb Seasoning - Homemade Recipe

If you are a cooking enthusiast and love to explore flavors, I have prepared an exciting recipe for you for universal dried herb seasoning. This blend will not only transform your meals but will also help you control the quality of the ingredients you use, eliminating additives and excess salt from commercial mixes.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Number of Servings: Almost unlimited (depending on the jar used)

A Brief Introduction to the World of Spices

Spices have been an integral part of culinary culture throughout history. Used to enhance flavors, preserve food, or even for medicinal purposes, they have traveled from distant corners of the world to our kitchens. The blend I propose today contains five essential herbs, each with its own benefits and flavors, plus a dash of curry for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.

Ingredients

To prepare this universal dried herb seasoning, you will need the following ingredients:

- Dried thyme - 1 part
- Dried marjoram - 1 part
- Dried lovage - 1 part
- Dried basil - 1 part
- Dried parsley - 1 part
- Curry - 1 part

Pepper Suggestions: If you want to add a touch of intensity, you can use a mix of pepper (white, black, green, and red), which will highlight the flavors of the blend.

Preparation Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Make sure you have all the dried herbs on hand. If possible, choose high-quality spices, preferably organic, for a more intense flavor and enhanced nutritional benefits.

2. Mix the Ingredients: In a jar or a larger container, add one part of each of the five dried herbs. Follow with the curry.

3. Seal the Jar: Close the jar with an airtight lid, then shake well to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.

4. Storage: Keep the blend in a cool, dark place. This will help maintain the fresh flavors.

5. Use with Confidence: This universal seasoning can be used for any type of meat - chicken, turkey, pork, or fish. Add it to marinades, sauces, soups, or even vegetarian dishes to enrich the flavors.

Practical Tips

- Experiment with Proportions: If you have personal preferences, feel free to adjust the proportions of the herbs. For example, if you love the taste of basil, you can add more of it.

- Combine with Other Spices: Try adding a touch of garlic or onion powder to bring another level of depth to the flavor.

- Create Your Version: You can also add other herbs, such as oregano or dill, to customize the blend to your liking.

Nutritional Benefits

This spice blend not only enhances the taste of dishes but also brings numerous nutritional benefits. Here are some of them:

- Thyme: Aids digestion and has antimicrobial properties.
- Basil: Rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory effects.
- Marjoram: Contributes to respiratory health.
- Lovage: Stimulates appetite and has a diuretic effect.
- Parsley: An excellent source of vitamins C and K.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Of course! You can use fresh herbs, but the proportions will need to be adjusted since dried herbs are more concentrated.

2. How long can this blend be stored?
If stored properly, the seasoning can last for six months to a year without losing its flavors.

3. How can I use this blend in cooking?
Add it to marinated meat a few hours before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate, or sprinkle it on vegetables before roasting.

Serving and Combinations

This universal seasoning is perfect for use in various dishes. You can combine it with:

- Grilled vegetables: Toss your favorite vegetables with a little olive oil and this seasoning for a delicious accompaniment.
- Rice or quinoa: Cook rice or quinoa with a dash of this blend for an unusual flavor.
- Salads: Sprinkle over a fresh salad for an extra burst of flavor.

Personal Note

A personal trick I use is to mix this seasoning with a bit of olive oil and use it as a marinade for meat. It creates an aromatic blend that perfectly combines all the notes, leaving the final dish incredibly tasty.

In conclusion, with this recipe for universal dried herb seasoning, you can turn any meal into a true feast of flavors. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and get cooking! Vegetables, meat, or vegan dishes - everything will take on a special flavor. Enjoy your meal!