Micro herbs are an exciting and versatile new addition to the culinary world. These tiny plants are grown in small quantities and harvested for their nutrient-rich and intensely flavorful leaves and are becoming more and more popular, as they offer a unique and exciting way to add flavor and texture to dishes. They can be grown almost anywhere, making them perfect for urban gardeners and those with limited outdoor space. Micro herbs are incredibly fresh and have a much more intense flavor than traditional herbs.
Micro Herbs be used in a variety of recipes, from salads to sauces, and are the perfect way to add a punch of flavor to any dish.
Whether you’re a home cook or a professional chef, micro herbs are sure to be a delicious addition to any dish that you’re preparing.
What Are Micro Herbs?
Micro Herbs:
Often referred to as “baby herbs” or “mini herbs,” are young seedlings of herb plants that are allowed to grow slightly longer than microgreens. They are harvested after the first true leaves have developed, but before they reach full maturity. Usually, around 14 to 30 days after germination, this allows them to exhibit more developed flavors compared to microgreens.
They are often less than 1 inch tall and are cultivated in small pots and granular substrate, rather than in soil. Incredibly flavorful, with a much more intense taste than their larger counterparts, and can be found in a range of different types, including basil, tarragon, rosemary, and thyme; often sold as small pots with multiple plants in each, which you can then start to grow at home. These types of greens are an excellent, less expensive alternative to the bulk herbs that are often used in restaurants, and they can be used in many different types of dishes, from salads and soups to sauces and marinades. They can be used fresh or dried, making them incredibly versatile and useful in a range of different recipes.
What’s the Difference Between Micro Herbs and Microgreens
Microgreens and micro herbs are both young vegetable greens that are harvested at different stages of growth. Microgreens are typically harvested 7 to 21 days after germination, once the plant’s first true leaves have emerged. They are approximately 1 to 3 inches tall and are considered baby plants, falling somewhere between a sprout and baby leaf vegetable1. On the other hand, micro herbs are more mature than microgreens and are harvested after the plant has developed its first set of true leaves.
Microgreens are known for their intense aromatic flavor and concentrated nutrient content. They come in a variety of colors and textures, adding a welcome splash of color to a variety of dishes. Despite their small size, they pack a nutritional punch, often containing higher nutrient levels than more mature vegetable greens, and are rich in potassium, iron, zinc, magnesium, and copper.
Micro herbs, on the other hand, are rich in flavor and add a burst of color to dishes. They are more mature than microgreens and have a stronger taste. Micro herbs can be used as garnishes or incorporated into various recipes to enhance the flavor profile.
In Summary:
Microgreens are young vegetable greens that fall somewhere between sprouts and baby leaf vegetables. They have an intense aromatic flavor and concentrated nutrient content.
Micro herbs are more mature than microgreens and have a stronger taste.
Both microgreens and micro herbs offer unique flavors and can be used to enhance the visual appeal of your dishes. They also provide various health benefits due to their high nutrient content.
Please note that while there is no specific nutritional information available for micro herbs, studies have shown that microgreens contain higher concentrations of most micronutrients compared to mature vegetables or herbs. However, more research is needed to determine the exact nutritional value of micro herbs.
How To Grow Micro Herbs
Micro herbs can be grown almost anywhere, making them an excellent choice for urban gardeners and those with limited outdoor space. Unlike most herbs, micro herbs are best grown indoors, in pots. They do not require large amounts of sunlight and will quickly become too large if grown outdoors. To start growing micro herbs, you first need starter plants from a garden supply store or online. It is important to choose the correct varieties, as they will have different requirements and growth patterns. Once you have your plants, it is important to understand their watering and lighting requirements. In general, they require less water than traditional herbs and prefer to be kept in a cool, dim environment. Once they are established, they can be harvested every few weeks.
How To Harvest Micro Herbs
If you’re growing micro herbs indoors, they can be harvested whenever you need them. If they are planted outdoors, they should be harvested in the spring and brought indoors before the first frost. Micro herbs are typically harvested when they are still young, although some varieties, such as rosemary, can be left to mature and be used for cooking. It is important to use the correct harvesting techniques to ensure the longevity and freshness of your herbs. For example, you should use clean scissors to cut your herbs, to ensure that no soil or grit will get on your food.
How To Store Micro Herbs
If you are harvesting micro herbs from your own plants, it is important to store them properly so they stay fresh for as long as possible. Basil, cilantro, and parsley shouldn’t be washed before storage, as the water may cause them to rot. Instead, gently pat the leaves with a paper towel. Chervil, chives, and tarragon should be wrapped in damp paper towels and stored in an airtight container, such as a sealed plastic bag. Herbs such as mint, oregano, and rosemary need to be kept in the refrigerator to stay fresh, while dill and fennel can be left on the counter. Make sure to remove any wilted leaves, as they can quickly spoil the rest of the bunch.
How To Use Micro Herbs
Micro herbs can be used in a variety of different dishes, from soups and stews to sauces and marinades. The best way to use them is to add a few sprigs at the very end of a dish, as they will lose their flavor and freshness if cooked for too long. Here are a few ideas for what to do with your new micro herbs: – Sprinkle chopped micro herbs on top of salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. – Chop the leaves and use them to flavor soups and stews. – Add chopped herbs to sauces and marinades. – Create herb butter by mixing chopped herbs with a stick of butter.
- Harvested after the first true leaves have appeared.
- Longer growth period compared to microgreens.
- More pronounced and mature flavors resemble the taste of the fully grown herb.
- Often used as flavor accents in dishes.
- Used similarly to mature herbs, but in smaller quantities.
Microgreens:
On the other hand, microgreens are young, edible plants harvested at an early stage of growth, typically when they have developed their first set of true leaves. They are known for their vibrant colors, intense flavors, and concentrated nutritional content. Microgreens are usually harvested within 7 to 21 days after germination, depending on the plant variety. They are grown from various types of seeds such as lentil microgreens, vegetables, herbs, and even some grains.
Key characteristics of microgreens:
- Harvested at an early growth stage.
- Typically have two fully developed leaves and a short stem.
- Wide variety of flavors, ranging from mild to intense.
- The diverse color palette, adds visual appeal to dishes.
- Used as garnishes, salad toppings, and flavor enhancers.
Culinary Uses:
Micro herbs and microgreens are both prized for their ability to add flavor, texture, and visual appeal to various dishes. They are commonly used as garnishes, salad components, and flavor enhancers in a wide range of culinary creations. Their small size and intense flavors allow chefs and home cooks to experiment with unique and creative presentations, transforming ordinary dishes into extraordinary ones.
In summary, the main difference between micro herbs and microgreens lies in their growth stage and flavor intensity. Microgreens are harvested at an earlier stage with milder flavors, while micro herbs are allowed to develop more pronounced herbaceous flavors. Both of these tiny plants contribute to the culinary world by elevating dishes with their distinct characteristics and enhancing the overall dining experience.
greens are harvested at an earlier stage with milder flavors, while micro herbs are allowed to develop more pronounced herbaceous flavors. Both of these tiny plants contribute to the culinary world by elevating dishes with their distinct characteristics and enhancing the overall dining experience.
What Are The Benefits?
These tiny herbs as you already know are a great way to add flavor to almost any dish. They have a stronger flavor than traditional herbs, so they only need to be added in smaller quantities. This makes them perfect for chefs who need a bold flavor without the overpowering taste. Micro herbs are also much more affordable than bulk herbs and can be grown at home, making them an excellent choice for anyone who loves to cook. Whether you’re a home cook or a professional chef, micro herbs are sure to be a delicious addition to your culinary repertoire.
Different Types
The most popular micro herbs include basil, chervil, chives, cilantro, dill, fennel, mint, oregano, rosemary, sorrel, lemon thyme, and tarragon. Other varieties are becoming more popular and can be found in different supermarkets and online stores.
Recipes
– Cobb salad – This classic salad is a great way to use micro herbs, as well as other vegetables and meat. You can also add any of your other favorite herbs to make it even more delicious.
– Asian chicken salad – a variety of different herbs and is a great way to use up any extra micro herbs you have on hand.
– Chicken and herb pie – delicious and hearty dish, perfect for a cold winter night. – Herb and goat cheese focaccia
– This herb and goat cheese focaccia is a delicious Italian dish that is sure to impress.
– Italian herb chicken – This Italian herb chicken is a delicious and simple recipe that will have you craving more.
Looking to Buy Micro Herbs And Store It?
Before you buy micro herbs, it is important to look for a few key things. First, make sure that the herbs are fresh. They should have a crisp, clean smell and their leaves should be bright and green. Make sure they are free of wilting and yellowing leaves, as they will go bad much more quickly. It is also important to check the packaging to make sure they are the correct variety.
While storing micro herbs can be difficult, there are a few things you can do to make sure they keep as fresh as possible for as long as possible. First, make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight, as it will quickly cause them to wilt and rot. Next, make sure to keep them in a cool, dark environment, such as a cupboard. Finally, make sure to keep them away from ethyl alcohol, such as is found in most cleaning products.