Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices come in many forms, and their flavors take us around the world. Products that make it easy to boost flavor abound – here are a few options in our stores to try:
Fresh Herbs – Organic fresh herbs are the go-to at Price Chopper and Market 32. Find individual herbs and some blends already assembled for your culinary needs in the Produce section of the store.
The Gourmet Garden – squeeze garlic, spices, herbs, and blends are in the Produce department – find them by the fresh greens. Add them to recipes, or use them to finish dishes, like adding Italian herbs to a cooked chicken breast, or a rice dish before serving. Use the garlic as a base rub on roasted meat or vegetables – you can add other spices (like dried herbs) and they will adhere nicely to the dish while it cooks.
Salt-free dried herb blends are quick and easy – brand names include PICS, Mrs. Dash, and McCormick Salt-free Perfect Pinch, Weber Salt-Free Hamburger, Chicken and Steak seasoning.
Tip – Look for small plastic packages of new flavors – easy to buy and try for just $1 or $2.
Tip – Dried herbs should be replaced after 1 year – they do not “go bad”, but they lose flavor and quality over time. Purchasing smaller quantities more often ensures the best flavor profile.
Fresh ginger, garlic, turmeric, scallions, cilantro, and a variety of organic, fresh packaged herbs including rosemary, chives, and basil are easy to find in many food stores.
Tip – Fresh herbs lend their flavors best to dishes when they are added at the end of cooking, for 10 minutes or less. If recipes call for herbs to be added before cooking, dried are the better and more economic choice.
Tip – Freeze leftover roots as is, chop herbs and freeze in ice cube trays. No salt added tomato paste leftovers can be placed into a plastic bag, (shape into a cylinder), frozen, then sliced and used to enhance flavors of soups and sauces.