The Difference Between Herbs and Spices

The Difference Between Herbs and Spices
By Deborah Prosser

The difference between herbs and spices is rather subtle. But the main difference is in knowing where the plant species originates from and what part of the plant is used. Spices tend to come from plants grown in tropical climates where as herbal plants can be grown in many climates. Most herbs come from the green parts of a plant such as the stem and leaves while most spices come from the root, seeds, bark or flowers of a plant. Cinnamon is a spice made from the bark of the cinnamon tree. Ginger is made from roots while cumin and nutmeg are made from seeds.

Over the passage of time the meaning and definition of herbs and spices have changed and today the words are used interchangeably. One of the important differences between herbs and spices is in how to use them when cooking. For example, herbs are used in larger portions than spices for flavoring foods. Spices are generally stronger tasting and are used in much smaller amounts.

Some favorite herbs are: Thyme, Basil, Parsley, Chives, Oregano, Sage, Marjoram, Rosemary and mint

Some favorite spices are: Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Cloves, Curry, Cumin and Vanilla

Many people seem hesitant to experiment with new food tastes and often stick with the tried and true. If you haven't tried some of these favorite herbs and spices cooked with your foods you may be surprised how good the food will taste. Combine various herbs and spices with foods and you'll find how much you enjoy altering the flavors of ordinary tasting dishes.

Flavorings

Since ancient times, herbs and spices have been used to alter flavoring to foods. Every part of the world has it's own favorite food tastes and if you've experimented with different cuisines then you know how much variety herbs and spices can bring to foods. We are truly fortunate today to have many of the world cuisines right in our own neighborhood restaurants. So, if you haven't already tried them, why not do so. Tasting food from various cultures will give you an appreciation of how herbs and spices can be used. For example, the oregano in Italian foods and curries used in Indian foods surely will demonstrate the difference that using herbs and spices make in cooking.

At home

If you're not prepared to spend money to experiment with restaurant cuisines, then try experimenting with these herbs and spices when cooking at home. Most supermarkets carry a good selection of fresh cut and dried herbs and spices. So, with just a little bit of effort, you can bring this world of flavors into your meals at home.

Using herbs

Herbs and spices are best added near the end of the cooking time to retain most of their flavors. Add them to soups and stews during the last hour of cooking. Adding freshly cut herbs such as parsley, basil and cilantro to salads is a great way to eat herbs right out of the garden. Other common uses of herbs and Spices are in making herbal teas or in the preserving of foods. Herbs have been used for medicinal purposes well before pharmaceutical products were ever invented. Another common use of herbs is in making cosmetic products.

As you can see there are many ways to add wholesome goodness to your life using herbs and spices.

Deborah Prosser is a partner in Ipcor Publishing and Personal Logs.com. She is publisher of the website Get In ShapeFind more information about herbs and spices on her webpage Herbs and Spices Download a Free copy of the e-book '101 Everyday Tips To Lose 10 Lbs' from her Get In Shape website.

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