Jan
Dried Savory and Its Magical Use in Cooking
Savory is one of the most versatile and aromatic herbs in cooking. Not only does it add an incredible flavor to dishes, but it also has numerous health benefits. This herb, which belongs to the mint family, can be used both fresh and dried in various recipes. If you’d like to learn about the uses of savory, its unique flavor, and how to store it, keep reading!
Flavor and Aroma of Savory
Savory has a warm aroma and a mild, slightly spicy taste that can easily replace heavier spices. Its unique flavor adds balance to dishes, especially in meats and soups, creating a rich and distinct taste. Savory enhances the flavors in a dish, making it seem more complex and professional, giving a sense of the chef’s expertise.
Health Benefits of Savory
In addition to its delightful scent and taste, savory is packed with medicinal properties that have been recognized in traditional medicine for centuries. This herb has been widely used in traditional cooking for its health benefits, which include:
- Digestive Health: Savory helps with better digestion and is beneficial for bloating and indigestion.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: It contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can assist in relieving various health issues and fighting certain diseases.
- Boosting the Immune System: Savory, thanks to its antioxidants, helps strengthen the body’s immune system.
- Lowering Blood Sugar: Some studies suggest that savory can help reduce blood sugar levels.
Uses of Savory in Cooking
Savory is used in a variety of traditional and modern dishes. Due to its unique characteristics and flavor, it can bring a different twist to your cooking. Let’s explore how savory can be used in different categories of dishes:
Meat Dishes: Savory is an excellent choice for seasoning all kinds of meats. It pairs wonderfully with red meats, giving them a rich and pleasant flavor. For example:
- You can use savory in stews, meatballs, or casseroles.
- It also adds a wonderful flavor when combined with grilled or pan-fried meats.
Meatballs (Koftas): Savory is one of the main spices used in making koftas. A small amount of dried savory in the meat mixture creates a unique aroma and flavor, filling the air with a delightful scent!
Seasoning Chicken and Fish: Savory is perfect for marinating chicken and fish, as it helps to remove any unpleasant odors. Depending on your taste, you can:
- Add dried savory to your chicken marinade.
- Sprinkle a little savory on fish before grilling or frying.
Ground Meat Dishes: Savory is a popular spice in dishes made with ground meat, such as meatballs, homemade burgers, kebabs, lasagna, and meat casseroles.
Soups and Stews: Savory is widely used in soups and stews, adding a special fragrance and taste. It’s especially great in dishes like noodle soup, barley soup, and vegetable soup.
Vegetarian Dishes and Vegetables: If you enjoy plant-based meals, savory is a perfect seasoning for steamed vegetables, salads, and even bean or lentil stews.
How to Store Savory
The distinct aroma and flavor of savory are what make it so special. To enjoy tasty and aromatic dishes, it’s important to store this herb properly. Here’s how you can keep fresh and dried savory in the best condition:
Storing Fresh Savory
- Wash and Dry: Wash fresh savory with cold water and dry it thoroughly with paper towels or a kitchen towel.
- Refrigerate: Place the savory in a plastic bag or an airtight container and store it in the vegetable drawer of your refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 5 to 7 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze fresh savory by placing it in a ziplock bag. This method will keep it fresh for several months.
Storing Dried Savory
- Keep in a Cool, Dark Place: Store dried savory in airtight glass or plastic containers in a cool, dark place. This will help preserve its aroma and flavor for up to a year.
- Avoid Moisture: If the container is not completely moisture-proof, you can use moisture absorbers like silica gel. Be careful that the silica gel does not come into direct contact with the dried herb.
Savory, this small yet fragrant herb, can add a delightful and unique flavor to your dishes. Whether fresh or dried, with proper storage and the right use, you can enjoy its incredible aroma and health benefits. If you haven’t tried savory in your cooking yet, give it a try today and add a new layer of taste to your meals!
Author: Zahra Barani
