10 Common Culinary Herb Questions Answered

Culinary herbs have been an integral part of human history, adding flavor, color, and depth to dishes across cultures. From ancient civilizations to modern kitchens, herbs continue to play a crucial role in cooking. But beyond just enhancing the taste, they can also help replace salt and sugar, improving the nutritional profile of meals. Some herbs even offer health benefits that are just beginning to be fully understood. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or an experienced chef, there are often questions that arise about the use and care of these versatile plants. Below, we answer the 10 most common questions people have about culinary herbs.

Question #1: What is an herb, anyway?

Botanically, an herb is defined as any plant with a non-woody stem. This includes plants whose aerial parts (leaves, flowers, stems) die back to the ground at the end of each growing season. However, in cooking, this definition is a bit more relaxed.

Culinary herbs are generally plants whose leaves, seeds, or flowers are used in small quantities to add flavor to food. These plants can be either annuals or perennials, and they can have a range of growing habits—from tiny, ground-hugging herbs like basil to larger, woody plants like rosemary.

While rosemary is technically a woody shrub, it’s still classified as an herb in the kitchen because of its aromatic leaves that enhance dishes. Other herbs, such as parsley, thyme, and cilantro, are used primarily for their fragrant and flavorful leaves.

Question #2: What is the difference between herbs and spices?

The distinction between herbs and spices can be a bit confusing, especially since they’re both used to enhance the flavor of food.

The primary difference lies in which part of the plant is used. Herbs are typically made from the leaves of plants, while spices come from other parts of the plant, such as seeds, bark, roots, or flowers.

For example, basil and mint are herbs because we use their leaves, while cinnamon and cloves are spices because they come from the bark and flower buds, respectively. In some cases, you might find both an herb and a spice coming from the same plant. Take cilantro, for instance: its leaves are used as a fresh herb, while its seeds are dried and ground into the spice known as coriander.

This distinction plays a key role in culinary applications, as herbs are often used fresh, while spices are usually dried and can be stored for longer periods. The contrast between the two adds complexity to the flavors in cooking, allowing chefs to create balanced and nuanced dishes.

Question #3: What is responsible for the flavor and smell of culinary herbs?

The distinct aroma and flavor of herbs come from essential oils that plants produce. These oils are volatile compounds that serve various functions in nature, including defending the plant against herbivores and attracting pollinators.

The intensity of these oils can be influenced by factors like the plant's growing environment, soil composition, and the time of day or season when the herb is harvested. For example, a plant grown in full sun will often produce more aromatic oils than one grown in the shade. Interestingly, certain herbs act as “companion plants,” benefiting one another’s growth and enhancing the essential oil production of neighboring plants. For instance, basil can boost the flavor of tomatoes, making it a great companion plant for those growing the fruit in the garden.

Essential oils in herbs contain various compounds that give them their unique flavor profiles. For example, mint’s menthol gives it a refreshing, cool taste, while rosemary’s high concentration of rosmarinic acid offers a warm, slightly piney flavor. These compounds are also responsible for the various health benefits associated with herbs, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Question #4: Are herbs hard to grow?

Growing herbs can be relatively easy, but like all plants, they have specific needs. Understanding those needs is key to success. For instance, most herbs require ample sunlight—generally six to eight hours a day—so they’re best grown in a sunny spot or windowsill. Additionally, herbs prefer well-draining soil, as they do not thrive in overly wet conditions. Over-watering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it's important to allow the soil to dry out between watering.

While herbs can be forgiving, some are more finicky than others. For instance, basil thrives in warm weather and doesn’t like to be exposed to cold temperatures, while thyme and rosemary are more tolerant of drought and slightly cooler conditions. Some herbs, such as cilantro, can be sensitive to heat and bolt quickly when temperatures rise, while others, like mint, are known for being invasive and spreading aggressively in the garden. Knowing the specific care requirements of each herb will help ensure a successful harvest.

Question #5: What are the top three culinary herbs to grow indoors?

If you're growing herbs indoors, certain varieties are particularly well-suited to the indoor environment. Chives, parsley, and oregano are three of the best herbs to grow inside, and they don’t require extensive care.

Chives are a low-maintenance herb that grows well in small pots on a windowsill. Their mild onion flavor is a great addition to a variety of dishes, such as soups, salads, and eggs.

Parsley is another indoor-friendly herb that thrives in pots. While it requires a bit more attention to ensure proper moisture levels, it’s worth the effort. Fresh parsley can be used to brighten up a range of dishes, from Mediterranean salads to hearty stews.

Oregano is a hardy perennial that can be grown indoors in a pot and enjoys plenty of sunlight. It’s commonly used in Italian and Mediterranean cooking, and its robust flavor makes it a favorite for pizza and pasta sauces.

Having these herbs on hand can elevate your cooking and save you money by reducing the need to buy fresh herbs at the grocery store.

Question #6: What is the relation between fresh and dried herbs as to the amount used in a recipe?

When substituting fresh herbs for dried herbs or vice versa, it’s important to adjust the amounts because drying concentrates the flavor. As a general rule of thumb, you should use one-third to one-fourth the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh herbs. For instance, if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fresh basil, you can substitute it with 1 teaspoon of dried basil.

This difference is due to the fact that drying removes most of the water content from the herbs, which intensifies their flavor. Keep in mind that the texture and potency of dried herbs can change depending on how they are stored. If you’ve had a container of dried oregano sitting in your cupboard for years, its flavor may have diminished significantly.

Question #7: Is there a difference in taste between fresh and dried herbs?

The debate about whether fresh or dried herbs taste better is subjective, but many chefs and home cooks agree that fresh herbs have a more vibrant and intense flavor. This is because fresh herbs contain more essential oils, which contribute to their aromatic qualities. Dried herbs, on the other hand, often lose some of their delicate aromas during the drying process, which can result in a slightly less intense flavor.

That said, there are certain dishes where dried herbs might work better than fresh ones. Dried herbs are excellent for slow-cooked dishes, such as soups, stews, and braises, where the flavors have time to meld and intensify. Fresh herbs, however, are ideal for garnishing and brightening up dishes just before serving, as their flavor tends to dissipate when exposed to heat for too long.

To get a clearer idea of the difference in taste, try a simple experiment at home: make two small portions of tomato sauce—one using fresh oregano and the other using dried oregano—and compare the flavors. You'll likely notice a difference in both the aroma and the overall taste.

Question #8: Where should I store my dried culinary herbs?

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the flavor and potency of dried herbs. Many people store dried herbs in jars on their kitchen counters for easy access, but this is not the best method if you want to preserve their quality. Herbs are highly sensitive to heat, light, and moisture, all of which can cause them to lose their flavor over time.

To ensure your dried herbs last as long as possible, store them in airtight containers in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a kitchen cupboard or pantry. Exposure to direct sunlight or heat can cause essential oils to degrade, leading to a loss of flavor. Additionally, make sure that the containers are sealed tightly to prevent moisture from entering, as humidity can cause herbs to lose their potency or develop mold. If stored correctly, dried herbs can retain their flavor for up to a year, but their quality will decrease over time, so it's best to use them within a few months.

Question #9: Do culinary herbs add any nutritional value to foods?

While culinary herbs are typically used in small amounts, they still pack a punch when it comes to nutrients. Herbs like parsley, cilantro, basil, and thyme are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, particularly vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron. However, because they are typically used in small quantities, the nutritional contribution of herbs to your overall diet is minimal.

The primary nutritional benefit of using herbs is that they allow you to flavor your food without relying on unhealthy additives like salt, sugar, or excessive amounts of oil. This can help reduce your intake of these ingredients, contributing to healthier meal choices. Additionally, herbs can be used to add complexity and depth to dishes, making it easier to enjoy meals with less seasoning.

Question #10: Does adding herbs to foods contribute to our health?

The health benefits of culinary herbs are widely recognized, and research continues to explore their potential in promoting overall well-being. Many herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, and basil, are packed with antioxidants, which help protect cells from oxidative damage. These compounds may play a role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and various infections.

In addition to their antioxidant properties, many herbs have antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have shown that herbs like oregano and garlic possess antimicrobial properties, which can help fight off harmful bacteria and viruses. Adding herbs to your food may also increase your intake of plant-based antioxidants, which support a healthy immune system and combat free radicals that contribute to aging and disease.

Interestingly, research has shown that the way herbs are prepared and cooked can influence their health benefits. For example, simmering or stewing herbs can release beneficial antioxidants, enhancing their effectiveness. However, high-heat cooking methods like grilling or frying can reduce the antioxidant capacity of herbs, so it's important to consider your cooking methods when seeking to maximize the health benefits of herbs.

As studies continue to investigate the functional properties of culinary herbs, it's clear that incorporating these flavorful plants into your daily diet can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

Some flavourful final words

As you saw, incorporating culinary herbs into your meals is more than just a way to enhance flavor—it’s an opportunity to improve your nutrition and health. From boosting your immune system to replacing unhealthy additives, these versatile plants are essential tools in any kitchen. Whether you’re growing your own herbs or simply using them in your cooking, the possibilities are endless.

Now, it’s time to bring these benefits to your table. Start experimenting with fresh herbs in your dishes, grow a small indoor herb garden, or make use of dried herbs for flavor-packed meals. Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you!

What’s your favorite culinary herb to use in the kitchen? Share your go-to herb and recipe ideas in the comments below, and start making your meals healthier and more flavorful today!