Herbs and Spices Add More Than Flavor

FOOD + LIFESTYLE:

Adding herbs and spices to a dish can transport a meal to far away lands. Think about it. Galanga, cilantro and chilies are signature ingredients for Thai food. Oregano, basil and garlic are the triumvirate of Italian cuisine. Herbs and spices can make ho hum, everyday dishes vibrant and exotic.

Beyond adding enticing flavors, herbs and spices do wonders imparting healthful benefits too. 

Click links to read more:
A Beginner's Guide to Herbs and Spices
Spice of Life

International Grocery 543 9th Ave NYC 10018
photo: wbj

Enjoy,

Cooking Lounge

From a Brooklyn Garden

LIFESTYLE + FOOD:

arugula, basil, yellow grape tomatoes, Tuscan kale, poona keera, cucumber, sage

As August rolls into September, summer starts to fade while backyard gardens burst with homegrown pride. After a visit to a friend's garden in Clinton Hill, I left with Tuscan kale, arugula, sage, basil, yellow grape tomatoes, and an odd cucumber (poona keera...thought it was an eggplant at first). The sun kissed warmth of the fragrant herbs and just picked vegetables almost radiated from the crowded canvas sack. 

chili pepper

Headed to the nearest grocery store. Decided to cook beef sauteed with the fresh sage, onions, garlic and Union Square Farmers' Market chili peppers. In the check-out line, a woman inhaled deeply and exclaimed in a bright, melodic Caribbean lilt the basil's aroma was "wonderful." Without hesitation, I shared the basil and even some of the sage. The check-out girl smiled in disbelief. I texted my friend, the gardener. Her reply..."See gardens r for sharing."

Enjoy,

Cooking Lounge

photos:wbj