What's the difference between Spices and Herbs?
- Kaylee Bolton
- Jul 23, 2024
- 2 min read
Did you know there is a difference between the two? An herb is often the green, leafy part of the plant. A spice is from the root, stem, or seeds of the plant.
Here are some examples -
Herbs: Rosemary, Thyme, Basil, Sage, Parsley, Oregano
Spices: Cinnamon, Ginger, Tumeric, Black Pepper
The terms Herb and Spices often get confused because of how they are used interchangeably. Spices are more concentrated overall and in the aromatic sense because in the process of grinding down to a powder the volatile oil is released. You don't need much spice to give your meal its flavor. When cooking with fresh herbs they are often for the finishing touches of a plate to give it that extra boost of fresh flavor like cilantro, parsley, mint, basil, etc. Of course, they are both extremely beneficial and I love cooking with both together to get the medicinal benefits of the fresh plant material and the dried parts of the plant like the root, stem, and seeds.
Fun Fact: Corriander and Cilantro come from the same plant. So it can be described as both a spice and an herb. Corriander is the dried seeds of the plant. Cilantro is the fresh leaves and stalk.
Here are some things to consider when shopping for herbs and spices :
Try to locally source your spice/herbs or buy from organically sustainable sources. Many of our easy-grab "spices" at HEB are not grown naturally.
Research and prepare herbs and spices in complementary ways that pair well together.
Make sure that your store-bought spices have a fresh smell to them. Quality is key!
Buy small amounts at a time, this ensures the spices stay fresh and don't go stale. Bulk is not always better with your spices/herbs.
Research and learn about our local herbs/spices that are native to our area and Texas in general
Try to grow your own! Fresh is Best!
Places online to buy quality herbs/spices :
Native Texas Herbs:
Texas Cedar Sage
Feverfew
Goldenrod
Yarrow
Wild Onion
Echincea
Slippery Elm
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