Is pepper actually an herb or a spice? And what about coriander? Or ginger? In other words: what ís actually the difference between herbs and spices? In this blog we tell you the answer to this question and explain more about their use. Care to read along?
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HERBS AND SPICES
The difference lies in the source and origin. You can see that herbs mainly grow in a temperate climate and are primarily from small, green, herbaceous plants. Often the leaves and stems are used. Examples of these are thyme, basil and parsley.
On the other hand, spices come from a (sub)tropical climate and mainly come from flower buds, stamens, seeds, fruits, barks and roots. Clove for example comes from the flower bud. Saffron comes from stamens. The fruits of plants provide, among others, coriander and pepper. Ginger and turmeric (curcuma) come from the root. And cinnamon is for example made from the bark.
THE SIMILARITIES BETWEEN HERBS AND SPICES
Besides the differences there are also similarities. One thing is certain: both are fantastic flavor enhancers. Not only do the nicest aromas waft through your kitchen, but they both give a delicious, aromatic twist to any dish. Think, for example, of a hint of cinnamon or vanilla through your oatmeal or yogurt. Or a bit of clove or bay leaf in stews. And you can make a delicious sauce, for example, with oregano, thyme, basil or sage. Appearance matters too, of course, and spices and herbs come in handy for that. Think, for example, of turmeric or paprika powder that give any dish a real color boost. As you can see, a whole experience for all your senses.
By the way, we see one more similarity. Both herbs and spices are in our newest herb mixes for home. Or actually herb-spice mixes ;-). Have you tried them yet?
THE USE OF HERBS AND SPICES
Now that you know the difference between herbs and spices it is also useful to know when to add an herb or spice to a dish. Is that at the beginning or after cooking? There is no single answer to this. It varies per herb or spice and of course also depends on which dish you want to make with it.
BUT…
We hope to be able to help you a bit. Herbs are added both at the beginning and at the end. For example, you add thyme at the beginning of the cooking process so that it has time to release its flavor well. But for example basil, dill and parsley release their flavor quickly, so you’re best adding these at the end of the cooking process.
Spices are often added at the beginning. You can do this by getting a pan very hot with a splash of (olive) oil in it. Then add spices. To release even more flavor, it’s best to crush the spices beforehand. This can be done with the flat side of your knife or you can use a mortar and pestle.
If you’re unsure about the use of the herbs and spices, you can always take a look at our product pages. And of course you can always send us an email. We’ll be happy to help you further!
All in all, herbs and spices, the plant-based flavor makers, ensure that you can easily turn a simple dish into a culinary masterpiece. And we haven’t even mentioned the convenience and health benefits yet…
Frequently asked questions about herbs and spices
1. What is the difference between herbs and spices?
The difference is in the origin of the plant. Herbs usually come from the leaves and stems of green plants that grow in a temperate climate, such as basil and thyme. Spices often come from (sub)tropical areas and are obtained from seeds, roots, barks, fruits or flower buds, such as pepper, cinnamon and clove.
2. Is pepper an herb or a spice?
Pepper is a spice. It is made from the dried fruits (peppercorns) of the pepper plant and grows in a tropical climate.
3. Is ginger an herb or a spice?
Ginger is a spice. It is obtained from the root (rhizome) of the plant and therefore falls under spices.
4. When do you add herbs and spices while cooking?
Spices are often added at the beginning of the cooking process so they can release their flavor well. Herbs can be added both at the beginning and at the end. Hard herbs like thyme can be cooked early on, while soft herbs like basil and parsley are better added at the end.
5. Can you use herbs and spices together?
Absolutely. Herbs and spices actually complement each other. Many herb mixes combine both for a balanced flavor. By combining them smartly, you give any dish more depth, aroma and character.
