The Must-Have Kitchen Tool That Makes Prepping Herbs So Much Easier
When it comes to fresh and dried herbs, there is no contest. Fresh herbs are essential in dishes like salads, dressings, pesto, and garnishes because they offer a much richer and more vibrant flavor than dried herbs. However, the downside is that fresh herbs require more preparation. While dried herbs are ready to use immediately, fresh herbs need to be washed, stripped, and chopped. This can be a time-consuming process depending on the type of herb.
If you enjoy working with fresh herbs, the herb remover is a useful tool that can speed up your preparation. As the name suggests, herb strippers help strip leaves from stems efficiently. These tools feature various hole sizes to suit different herbs. To use, insert the stem into the smallest fitting hole and pull it through until the leaves come off. Some herb removers also have larger holes suitable for kale or other leafy greens.
Certain models of herb strippers come equipped with a blade, enabling you to strip and chop herbs with a single tool. Others include attached bowls to catch the leaves as they fall through the openings. This innovative technology could transform the way people cook with fresh herbs. After witnessing how quickly the stripper operates, it may encourage individuals to use herbs more often and experiment with different varieties. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using an herb stripper with a bowl.
Start by washing and drying any fresh herbs you buy right away to get rid of any pests or dirt. Wrap them in paper towels and store them in sealable bags. The paper towels will help keep the herbs fresh, but aim to use them within a few days to enjoy the best flavor. Thankfully, there are many ways to savor the unique tastes of fresh herbs. Basil, for instance, is a favorite herb thanks to its sweet and slightly spicy flavor. It’s commonly used in Mediterranean dishes but can also enhance other cuisines.
Basil is also the key ingredient in pesto and can elevate many dishes. To maximize its flavor, add the leaves (without the stems) near the end of cooking when preparing fish, chicken, or pasta sauce. Rosemary can be tricky to handle, so an herb remover is particularly useful. Its leaves offer a wonderful woody, pine-like flavor that complements dishes such as lamb chops, poultry, roast beef, and roasted potatoes. Rosemary is also a great addition to flatbread, sweet potato fries, and even desserts like cake.
Cilantro, also known as coriander leaf, can be a polarizing herb. While some appreciate its fresh, zesty flavor, others compare its taste to soap. Nevertheless, cilantro is a staple in Asian and Latin American dishes. It’s versatile, enhancing both raw and cooked dishes without being overpowering. Dill is a common herb in German and Scandinavian cuisines, offering a subtle yet robust flavor that is fresh and earthy. It pairs well with various dishes, including poultry, yogurt, seafood, salads, soups, and egg-based recipes like quiche.
Marjoram has a milder flavor than oregano but remains quite potent. It pairs well with vegetables and meats and can also be used to enhance salads, soups, sauces, fish, and more. While the leaves are used for these dishes, you can save the stems to add depth to a stock or soup. Thyme, commonly found in French cuisine, brings a floral aroma and robust flavor that complements dishes without overshadowing other ingredients. An herb remover, similar to rosemary, simplifies thyme preparation. Thyme is a great addition to roast chicken, bread, potatoes, and even cocktails.
Mint is often associated with beverages and desserts, but there are many other ways to enjoy this versatile herb. It complements salads, poultry, curries, and sandwiches and can also add a refreshing touch to a fruit salad. Parsley is another popular herb known for its fresh and mild flavor. Although the leaves are the most commonly used part, the stems can also be utilized in cooking. Add parsley as a garnish to season soups or enhance salads. Its applications are vast, but parsley pairs especially well with pasta, butter, eggs, and lemon.
Oregano’s robust flavor is essential in dishes like chili, pasta, and pizza sauces. Unlike herbs such as basil, oregano can withstand high heat, making it ideal to use early in the cooking process. However, be mindful to use oregano in moderation to avoid overpowering other ingredients. You can also save the stems to enhance the flavor of stocks and soups.
