Monday, November 30, 2009

What Is Dried Summer Savory

Summer savory is an annual herb commonly used in cooking and one is of the ingredients in Herbes de Provence. Many supermarkets do not carry fresh summer savory. However, dried summer savory is usually available in the spice section of most markets.


Classification


Summer savory, Satureja hortensis, is a member of the mint family. The plant grows 6 to 12 inches tall and 9 to 12 inches wide. It flowers from mid to late summer. The leaves are harvested before the plant flowers and are used fresh or dried for later use.


Characteristics


The leaves of summer savory have a flavor similar to thyme. The herb is exceptionally flavorful when combined with rosemary. Just a few fresh leaves are sufficient to flavor a dish without overpowering it. Dried summer savory has a more intense flavor; 1 tsp. of dried summer savory is used in place of 1 tbsp. of fresh.


Uses


Dried summer savory is used to add spice to meat and vegetables and is often used in sausage and stuffing. It adds depth of flavor to beans and lentils. It is also used as a substitute for thyme.







Tags: summer savory, Dried summer, savory used, summer savory used