Dill
- Origin
In Europe, South and North America dill had been cultivated for many centuries. Both leaves and seeds were known in ancient Egypt. They were used as a spice as well as for medicinal purposes. For example, Roman gladiators used to season their food with dill oil, because they believed it to give them strength, increase body tonus and help them to win.
It seems that there are very few people who do not appreciate the qualities of dill and do not use it in cookery. Besides it great flavour, dill is very reach in vitamin C. Just 100g of the herb contain 150mg of the C.

- Varieties
Dill leaves (both fresh and dried) are generally used alongside dill seeds.

- Flavour
Dill has a very pleasant smell and somewhat refreshing taste.

- Usage
Chopped fresh dill can be added with equal success to meat, fish and vegetables. It improves the taste and look of many dishes and it has a positive effect on one's appetite. Dill decreases the concentration of salt in the dish and prevents oversaturation of one's body with salt. Along with regular dill, dill oil and essence can be used. However, one has to be careful with them, because too much oil or essence can spoil the dish. That is why they are mostly used in restaurants rather than at home. Fresh dill has to be added to the dish after cooking and just before serving, because high temperatures destroy both taste and scent of the dill. Dill seeds, on the other hand, have to be added at the very beginning, because temperature helps them to release the scent.

- Amount
5-15 grams of fresh dill is enough for one portion of the dish.

- Combinations and substitutes
Dill is great in combination with parsley and leaves of coriander.

- Storage
Dried dill has to be stored in a tightly closed container, so that it keeps it scent for a long time.

< Prev   Next >
Food.ca - It's all about food in Canada!
NEWSLETTERS
Keep yourself updated with our FREE newsletters now!



Share |

 

(NC)—As the warmer weather sets in, so does our appetite for lighter fare and an increased energy level. Spring clean your health regime by treating yourself to wholesome lunch options and an active new lifestyle to get yourself back on track for the summer months. Here are three ways to get you started.
1. Re–introduce activity: After months of using the “it's cold out” excuse for not getting your 45 minutes a day, it is time to get back into the swing of things. Using your lunch break in the middle of the day to enjoy a brisk walk is a great way to get moving again.
Read more...

 

Enhance your health with freshly grown herbs
(NC)—Did you know that one tablespoon of fresh oregano contains the same amount of antioxidants as a medium sized apple?
We know that antioxidants in our bodies are essential to good health. Many fruits and vegetables provide them, but research shows that fresh oregano is at the top of the list in antioxidant activity. Adding fresh herbs to your diet is an easy way to include significant amounts of antioxidants and increase the health value of a meal without adding extra calories–and you can easily grow them right in your own backyard garden or in containers on your patio or balcony.
Read more...

 

Pare down your portions to trim down your waistline
(NC)—We live in a world where “mega, super and grande” sizes have become the norm. Many people use these plus–sized portions to validate their binge–eating habits. Some use over–consumption as a way to comfort emotional distress, others take the “see food” diet approach and always finish what's on their plate.
Here are a few tips I like to follow to ensure I am eating the proper portions.
Read more...

Food.ca-C1