Do you know the difference between the two?
A number of people answer the question online, but I think Sam Herbert does a great job explaining the basic differences. This is just some of the information he shares on Ezine articles, where he also writes a little bit about their history and uses:
"The essential difference between an herb and a spice is where it is obtained from on a plant. Herbs usually come from the leafy part of a plant, and are usually dried. However, some herbs can be used fresh. Spices can be obtained from seeds, fruits, roots, bark, or some other vegetative substance. Spices are not necessarily as fresh as some herbs can be. Herbs can be found many places around the world, while spices are more commonly found in the Far East and tropical countries."
Cooking Tip:
1 teaspoon dried herb for 3 tablespoons fresh herb
If you need (or want) to substitute one for the other, keep that 1:3 ratio in mind. Some people say 1:2, but OChef writes, "let taste be your guide." Read his comment to understand more about it.
What's your favorite fresh or dried herb or spice? Add your opinion to the poll. If you choose "other," leave a comment saying which one. Cumin is one of my favorites.
Pictured: The really beautiful purple & green basil I found this spring.
Posts
Thank you for the clarification of herbs and spices. Know I know what I am talking about, yet I did not see a reference to the following and Colonel Sanders:
ReplyDelete"Dad, how can you hate "The Colonel"?"
"Because he puts an addictive chemical in his chicken that makes ya crave it fortnightly!"
11 original herbs and spices, indeed! Great recipe, for "Heroine" Chicken. Because anyone who has the time to cook while doing schoolwork is truly heroic (and not heroin-ic)!
Jeff
Jeff,
ReplyDeleteI never heard of that exchange regarding Colonel Sanders. It is indeed perfect for this recipe and post! Thanks for the encouraging words.