At Peppercorn Catering, we believe that the secret to unforgettable dishes lies in the use of fresh, flavourful herbs. Today, we’re diving into the top 10 herbs that will elevate your marinades and sauces, starting with the vibrant and aromatic lemongrass. Plus, as a bonus, we’re including a special mention of Chinese five spice and hoisin sauce for your Asian-inspired marinades.
1. Lemongrass
Flavour Profile: Citrusy, lemony with a hint of ginger.
Best Used In: Lemongrass is a staple in Asian cuisine, particularly in Thai dishes. It’s perfect for marinades and sauces for seafood, chicken, and beef, imparting a fresh, zesty flavour that’s hard to beat.
2. Basil
Flavour Profile: Sweet, peppery, with a hint of mint.
Best Used In: Basil shines in Italian sauces like pesto and marinara. It’s also fantastic in marinades for chicken, adding a fresh and aromatic touch.
3. Rosemary
Flavour Profile: Pine-like, earthy, slightly bitter.
Best Used In: This robust herb is a favourite for Mediterranean marinades and sauces. It pairs beautifully with lamb, chicken, and roasted vegetables.
4. Thyme
Flavour Profile: Earthy, slightly minty, with floral notes.
Best Used In: Thyme is a versatile herb that enhances the flavour of poultry, beef, and vegetable dishes. It’s a key ingredient in French cuisine and adds depth to hearty sauces and marinades.
5. Cilantro
Flavour Profile: Fresh, citrusy, slightly peppery.
Best Used In: Cilantro (or coriander) is essential in Mexican salsas, Indian chutneys, and Southeast Asian dishes. Its bright flavour is perfect for marinades and sauces for fish and chicken.
6. Dill
Flavour Profile: Fresh, tangy, slightly grassy.
Best Used In: Dill’s distinctive flavour is wonderful in pickling brines, creamy dressings, and sauces for fish. It’s also great for marinades for lamb and chicken.
7. Mint
Flavour Profile: Cool, refreshing, sweet.
Best Used In: Mint adds a refreshing touch to Middle Eastern marinades and sauces, especially for lamb. It’s also a great addition to yogurt-based dips and dressings.
8. Oregano
Flavour Profile: Robust, slightly bitter, aromatic.
Best Used In: Oregano is a must-have in Italian and Greek marinades, particularly for lamb, chicken, and seafood. It also adds depth to tomato-based sauces.
9. Parsley
Flavour Profile: Fresh, slightly peppery, mild.
Best Used In: Parsley is a versatile herb used in gremolata, tabbouleh, and chimichurri. It’s also excellent in marinades and sauces for fish and chicken, adding a fresh, green flavour.
10. Sage
Flavour Profile: Earthy, slightly peppery, with a hint of eucalyptus.
Best Used In: Sage’s unique flavour is ideal for poultry marinades and brown butter sauces. It’s also a classic herb for stuffing mixes and roasted vegetables.
Bonus: Chinese Five Spice and Hoisin Sauce
Chinese Five Spice
Flavour Profile: A blend of sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami.
Best Used In: This spice mix is perfect for Asian-inspired marinades, adding depth and complexity to pork, chicken, and beef dishes.
Hoisin Sauce
Flavour Profile: Sweet, salty, and slightly tangy.
Best Used In: Hoisin sauce is a staple in Chinese cuisine, excellent for marinades and glazes for meats, especially in stir-fries and barbecued dishes.
Bringing it All Together
At Peppercorn Catering, we understand that the right combination of herbs and spices can transform a dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re marinating meat for the BBQ or whipping up a quick sauce, these herbs are your go-to for adding flavour and depth. Experiment with these herbs to find your perfect blend, and watch your dishes come to life.
Why Choose Peppercorn Catering?
Choosing Peppercorn Catering means choosing quality, creativity, and passion for food. We take pride in using the freshest ingredients to create dishes that not only taste amazing but also tell a story. Our commitment to excellence ensures that every event we cater is a memorable culinary experience.
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