Are you curious as to when to use dried herb and fresh herb? According to professional chefs, the fresh herb has a more distinct flavor than dried herb. The composition of herbs includes compounds such as aldehyde, hydrocarbons, ketones, and phenois. These compounds are exposed to external elements that can affect the consistency of their original flavor. Among these elements is exposed to high temperature for a prolonged period and processes during cooking. So, when to use herbs?

Fresh Herb

Fresh herb is usually added during the final stage of cooking. In fact, professional chefs and cooks add fresh herb as garnishing on a dish. The commonly used fresh herb varieties that are added on cooked dishes are basil, chervil, chives, cilantro, mint, parsley and tarragon.

Fresh herbs are mostly available at your local farmer or supermarket while dried herb is bought from a wholesaler of spices and herbs. You can also plant your own herb garden and enjoy freshly picked herbs. The right timing to add fresh herb on any dish at during the simmering phase and must not go beyond 45 minutes to ensure it retains the original flavour of the fresh herb.

Dried Herb

Similar to frozen fruits vegetable dried herb also has the same nutritional value as their fresh counterparts. Dried herb products are best when added at the early stage of cooking. Why? The cooking process will allow the flavour of dried herb to perfectly blend with the rest of the ingredients, creating a more flavourful dish.

If you will compare the prices of dried herb from freshly harvested herb it’s a lot cheaper for dried herb, especially if you buy from a wholesaler. Another advantage of using dried herb instead of fresh herb is that it’s more convenient to acquire and use. Among the types of herbs that have distinct flavour when in dried form are bay leaves, oregano, sage, rosemary and thyme.

Before you cooking take time to read carefully the recipe’s requirement on herbs, whether dried herb or fresh herb. If the recipe suggests using the dried herb, then, follow this advice strictly. However, if the recipe mentioned using only fresh herb for the frozen fruits vegetable dish to improve the overall taste, then, add this at the final stage of the cooking process.

Dried herb can provide the same distinct flavour to any cooked dish is you just follow the step-by-step cooking procedure. Be sure to buy your dried herb at a reputable supplier or wholesaler of dried herbs and spices. If you wish to source locally your bulk orders of dried herbs in Australia contact the representative at Takin, a leading supplier and wholesaler of Persian and Mediterranean fine food products including frozen fruits vegetable products.