ALL ABOUT

ROSEMARY!

Culinary Guide
Unlock the secrets of rosemary in your kitchen!

Overview
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a robust, aromatic herb native to the Mediterranean. Its needle-like leaves and woody stems impart a piney, citrusy flavor with peppery notes, ideal for hearty dishes and aromatic infusions.

Flavor Profile

• Key Notes: Pine, lemon, pepper, and a subtle minty undertone.

• Intensity: Strong; use sparingly to avoid overpowering dishes.

Culinary Uses

• Roasting & Grilling: Perfect with lamb, chicken, pork, or root vegetables (potatoes, carrots). Place sprigs under meats or chop leaves finely.

• Stews & Soups: Add whole sprigs early for slow-cooked depth (remove before serving).

• Marinades & Oils: Infuse olive oil or vinegar with sprigs for dressings or bread dips.

• Baking: Incorporate into focaccia, crackers, or citrus desserts (e.g., lemon-rosemary shortbread).

• Cocktails: Garnish gin tonics or bloody marys for an herbal twist.

Ideal Pairings

• Proteins: Lamb, beef, poultry, fish (especially oily varieties like salmon).

• Vegetables: Potatoes, tomatoes, mushrooms, beans, squash.

• Herbs/Spices: Thyme, sage, garlic, lemon zest, black pepper.

• Cuisines: Mediterranean, Italian, French, Middle Eastern.

Preparation Tips

• Fresh: Strip leaves from stems; mince finely for even distribution.

• Dried: Use 1/3 the amount of fresh (e.g., 1 tsp dried ≈ 1 tbsp fresh).

• Whole Sprigs: Add to slow-cooked dishes; remove before serving.

Storage

• Fresh: Wrap in a damp paper towel; refrigerate up to 2 weeks.

• Drying: Hang bundles upside down in a cool, dark place.

• Freezing: Chop leaves into ice cube trays with olive oil.

Health Benefits

• Antioxidant-rich; may aid digestion and circulation.

• Note: Consult a doctor before using medicinally, especially if pregnant or on medication.

Growing Tips

• Sunlight: 6–8 hours daily.

• Soil: Well-drained, slightly alkaline.

• Harvesting: Snip stems as needed; prune regularly to encourage growth.

Cautions

• Overuse can dominate flavors.

• Rare allergies possible; test in small amounts.

Cultural Notes
Symbolizes remembrance and loyalty. Traditionally used in weddings, memorials, and as a natural air purifier.

Pro Tip: Grow your own! Fresh rosemary elevates dishes and thrives in gardens or pots.

The information above represents just a selection from Jane Griffiths' comprehensive guide, "Jane's Delicious A-Z of Herbs", focusing on the Rosemary herb.

Click on the image below to access additional information on Rosemary and the complete range of herbs available in South Africa!

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drawing on all 7 of Jane's published works!