Herbs

If you need to add flavour to your food … think about using herbs. Herbs come from the fragrant leaves of a plant and can be used either fresh or dried. Geography and climate are important factors that determine the herbs that can be found in the cooking of a region or country. Fresh or dried? Chopped fresh herbs can be added to a dish just before serving. However, dried herbs need time to rehydrate. Use sparingly until you know the impact a flavour a particular herb can have on a dish.

Spices

The majority of spices come from dried roots, bark, buds, fruit, and seeds of the plants. Regional tradition and history often determines the spices or spice mixes that will be used in food. They are often dried, because many spices travel halfway around the world before they are used. Spices usually need some preparation before use. Bruising, cutting or grinding releases the oils and perfume of the spice being used.