As a culinary enthusiast, I often find myself gravitating towards a select few herbs to enhance the taste of my meals. But what are the 20 commonly used herbs in the kitchen? Being aware of the herbs that are commonly used can aid in broadening your gastronomic scope and experimenting with novel flavors in your cooking.
After conducting some research, I’ve found that the 20 most commonly used herbs in the kitchen include basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, parsley, dill, cilantro, mint, chives, bay leaves, tarragon, marjoram, fennel, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and turmeric. These herbs are used to enhance the flavor of various dishes, ranging from soups and stews to baked goods and desserts. They also have various health benefits and can be used as natural remedies for common ailments.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting in the kitchen, understanding the most commonly used herbs can help you elevate your cooking game and impress your friends and family with delicious, flavorful dishes. In the following sections, I’ll explore each of these herbs in more detail, discussing their flavor profiles, culinary uses, and health benefits.
The Importance of Herbs in the Kitchen
As a home cook, I find that herbs are essential ingredients in my kitchen. They help to add flavor and depth to dishes and can turn a bland meal into something delicious. Herbs are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to baked goods and desserts.
One of the most significant benefits of using herbs in cooking is the added flavor they provide. Herbs can transform a dish from ordinary to extraordinary, making it more enjoyable to eat. For example, adding basil to a tomato sauce can bring out the sweetness of the tomatoes and add a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Another benefit of using herbs in cooking is their health benefits. Many herbs have medicinal properties and can help to improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system. For example, ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while garlic has been shown to have antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Herbs are also a great way to add variety to your meals. With so many different herbs available, you can experiment with different flavors and create new and exciting dishes. For example, you can use rosemary to add a savory flavor to roasted meats, or cilantro to add a fresh, citrusy flavor to salsa.
Herbs are an essential ingredient in any kitchen. They add flavor, depth, and variety to dishes and have numerous health benefits. As a home cook, I highly recommend experimenting with different herbs to create new and exciting dishes.
Top 8 Herbs Originating from Europe
As a food lover, I appreciate the richness and flavor that herbs bring to my dishes. As I researched the most commonly used herbs in the kitchen, I found that many of them originated from Europe. Here are some of the most popular herbs that have their roots in Europe:
Number 1: Sage
Sage is an herb that is native to the Mediterranean region and has been used for centuries in European cuisine. It has a strong, earthy flavor and is often used to season meat dishes, stuffing, and sauces.
Number 2: Rosemary
Another herb that is native to the Mediterranean region is rosemary. It has a strong, pine-like flavor and is often used to season roasted meats, potatoes, and vegetables.
Number 3: Thyme
Thyme is a versatile herb that is commonly used in European cuisine. It has a slightly sweet and earthy flavor and is often used to season meat dishes, stews, and soups.
Number 4: Parsley
Parsley is a popular herb that is commonly used as a garnish in European cuisine. It has a mild, slightly bitter flavor and is often used to add freshness to salads, soups, and sauces.
Number 5: Oregano
Oregano is a herb that is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly used in Italian and Greek cuisine. It has a strong, pungent flavor and is often used to season tomato-based dishes, meats, and vegetables.
Number 6: Marjoram
Marjoram is a herb that is native to the Mediterranean region and is closely related to oregano. It has a milder flavor than oregano and is often used to season meat dishes, soups, and stews.
Number 7: Fennel
Fennel is a herb that is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly used in Italian cuisine. It has a sweet, licorice-like flavor and is often used to season fish dishes, salads, and soups.
Number 8: Tarragon
Tarragon is a herb that is native to Europe and is commonly used in French cuisine. It has a slightly sweet and anise-like flavor and is often used to season chicken dishes, salads, and sauces.
These are just a few of the many herbs that have their roots in Europe. By incorporating these herbs into your cooking, you can add depth and richness of flavor to your dishes.
Top 4 Herbs Originating from Asia
As an avid cook and lover of Asian cuisine, I am always on the lookout for the best herbs to use in my dishes. Here are some of the most commonly used herbs originating from Asia:
Number 1: Mint
Mint is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. In Asian cuisine, it is often used in salads, curries, and chutneys. There are several varieties of mint, but the most commonly used in Asian cooking is spearmint. It has a refreshing taste and a cooling effect, making it perfect for hot and spicy dishes.
Number 2: Cilantro
Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a staple herb in many Asian cuisines. It has a bright and citrusy flavor that pairs well with spicy and savory dishes. It is often used in salsas, chutneys, and curries. In some cultures, the roots of the cilantro plant are also used in cooking.
Number 3: Coriander
Coriander is the seed of the cilantro plant and is often used as a spice in Asian cuisine. It has a warm, nutty flavor and is used in curries, soups, and stews. In some cultures, coriander is also used to make a refreshing drink.
Number 4: Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a fragrant herb that is commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine. It has a lemony flavor and is often used in curries, soups, and stir-fries. It is also used to make tea and is believed to have several health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving digestion.
These four herbs are essential ingredients in many Asian dishes and can add depth and complexity to your cooking. Whether you are making a spicy curry or a refreshing salad, these herbs are sure to take your dish to the next level.
Top 2 Herbs Originating from South America
As a food lover and a culinary enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the diverse range of herbs and spices used in different cuisines. South America is a region that has contributed significantly to the world’s culinary heritage with its unique and flavorful herbs and spices.
Number 1: Mexican Oregano
One of the most well-known herbs from South America is Mexican oregano. This herb is commonly used in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine to add a warm, slightly citrusy flavor to dishes. Mexican oregano is a member of the mint family and is native to Mexico and Central America. It is often used in chili and other spicy dishes, as well as in marinades and sauces.
Another popular herb originating from South America is aji amarillo. This bright yellow-orange chili pepper is a staple in Peruvian cuisine and is known for its fruity, slightly sweet flavor and medium heat. Aji amarillo is often used in ceviche, stews, and sauces, and is a key ingredient in the popular Peruvian dish, causa.
Number 2: Cayenne Pepper
South America is also home to a variety of peppers, including the famous cayenne pepper. This spicy pepper is commonly used in South American, Caribbean, and Cajun cuisine to add heat and flavor to dishes. Cayenne pepper is made from dried and ground cayenne chili peppers, which are native to South America.
In addition to these well-known herbs and spices, South America is also home to a variety of lesser-known herbs, such as huacatay and muña muña. Huacatay, also known as Peruvian black mint, is a herb used in Peruvian cuisine to add a unique, minty flavor to dishes. Muña muña, on the other hand, is a type of mint that is native to the mountainous regions of South America and is often used in teas and infusions.
Overall, South America has contributed a wide range of flavorful herbs and spices to the world’s culinary heritage. From spicy peppers to unique herbs, these ingredients have played a significant role in shaping the cuisines of the region and beyond.
Herbs Originating From Africa – What are the 20 Commonly Used Herbs in the Kitchen?
I have researched and compiled a list of commonly used herbs in the kitchen, and some of them originate from Africa. These herbs not only add flavor to dishes but also have medicinal properties.
Cumin
Cumin is a spice that has been used for centuries in African cuisine. It has a warm and earthy flavor and is commonly used in stews, soups, and meat dishes. Cumin is also believed to have medicinal properties, including aiding digestion and reducing inflammation.
Cloves
Cloves are another spice that is commonly used in African cuisine. They have a sweet and warm flavor and are often used in spice blends and marinades for meat dishes. Cloves are also believed to have medicinal properties, including relieving toothaches and aiding digestion.
Other African Herbs
Many other herbs are commonly used in African cuisine, including:
- Fenugreek: This herb has a slightly bitter taste and is often used in spice blends and marinades.
- Ginger: Ginger has a spicy and pungent flavor and is commonly used in soups, stews, and meat dishes.
- Rosemary: Rosemary has a pine-like flavor and is commonly used in meat dishes and marinades.
- Thyme: Thyme has a slightly sweet and earthy flavor and is commonly used in stews, soups, and meat dishes.
These herbs not only add flavor to dishes but also have medicinal properties. For example, ginger is believed to aid digestion and reduce inflammation, while mint is believed to relieve nausea and headaches.
In conclusion, African herbs are an important part of the culinary world and have been used for centuries in African cuisine. They not only add flavor to dishes but also have medicinal properties, making them a valuable addition to any kitchen. Don’t forget to add The Herb Prof to your favorites so you don’t miss out on future articles.
References – What are the 20 Commonly Used Herbs in the Kitchen?
Little Herb Encyclopedia, by Jack Ritchason; N.D., Woodland Publishing Incorporated, 1995
The Ultimate Healing System, Course Manual, Copyright 1985, Don Lepore
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Lotus Press, 1988
Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, by James A. Duke, Pub. CRP Second Edition 2007
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, Published by Dorling Kindersley
Check the Following Articles!
Home Remedies for Sunburn: A Herbalist’s Guide!
What Herbs Can Be Planted Together?
What Are The 10 Most Used Herbs: Number 4 Is The Best!
Frequently Asked Questions – What are the 20 Commonly Used Herbs in the Kitchen?
What are the 20 Commonly Used Herbs in the Kitchen?
As a chef, I can say that some of the most commonly used herbs in cooking include basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, parsley, dill, cilantro, mint, chives, bay leaves, tarragon, marjoram, fennel, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and turmeric. These herbs are used in various dishes to enhance their flavor and aroma.
What are the essential herbs for a well-stocked kitchen?
If you want to have a well-stocked kitchen, it’s important to have some essential herbs on hand. These include basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, parsley, dill, cilantro, and mint. These herbs are versatile and can be used in various dishes, from soups and stews to salads and marinades.
What are the top 20 herbs that every home cook should have?
As a seasoned chef, I recommend having the following herbs in your kitchen: basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, parsley, dill, cilantro, mint, chives, bay leaves, tarragon, marjoram, fennel, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and turmeric. These herbs are versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes.
What are the must-have herbs for home chefs?
If you’re a home chef, it’s important to have some must-have herbs on hand. These include basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, parsley, dill, cilantro, and mint. These herbs are essential for adding flavor and aroma to a wide range of dishes, from pasta sauces to roasted meats.
What are the best herbs to keep in your kitchen?
The best herbs to keep in your kitchen are those that you use most frequently. In general, it’s a good idea to have basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, parsley, dill, cilantro, and mint on hand. These herbs are versatile and can be used in many different dishes.
What are the go-to herbs for everyday cooking?
For everyday cooking, the go-to herbs are those that are versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes. These include basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, parsley, dill, cilantro, and mint. These herbs can be used in everything from soups and stews to salads and marinades.