7 Best Indoor Herbs to Keep Your Kitchen Stocked All Winter
If you enjoy spending time in the garden on a hot summer day, you may experience a feeling of loss when the temperatures decrease and the days get shorter. But you don’t have to put your green thumb away for the winter. There are several herbs that may be grown from the warmth and comfort of your windowsill. You may easily cultivate these seven herbs during the winter season if you have a deep enough perch where you can set your plants and a window that receives several hours of sunshine each day.
1. Oregano
A must for Italian, Mexican, Central American, and Middle Eastern cuisines, oregano is a member of the mint family. Strip the leaves from snipped stems and add to tomato sauces, meat, casseroles, soups, and stews. The dried leaves are more pungent compared to fresh ones. Grow oregano as you would other mints. Water when the surface of the soil is dry, but don’t let it dry out. Give the plants moderate to strong light. The more you harvest the leaves, the more the plant will regrow, so don’t be afraid to clip leaves often.
2. Sage
Sage is an herb with a long history of medicinal and culinary use. The bitter leaves can be used to flavor sausage, added to stuffing, or rubbed onto chicken before cooking. In addition to being a delicious herb, sage is also rich in compounds that offer health benefits. Sage contains antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage, and it also has anti-inflammatory properties. When growing sage, make sure to give the plants plenty of space as they can grow quite large. Water sage when the soil is dry and place the plant in a sunny spot. Harvest the leaves by cutting back the stems as needed.
3. Thyme
Thyme is a popular herb that is used in all sorts of dishes, from roasted chicken to lamb stew. It’s also one of the key ingredients in bouquet garni, a bundle of herbs used to flavor soup, stocks, and other dishes. Thyme has a light, lemony flavor that pairs well with many other herbs and seasonings. Pot thyme in a fast-draining soil mix in a warm, sunny window. Water when the soil’s surface is dry, but don’t let it wilt.
4. Rosemary
Rosemary is a fragrant herb that is often used to flavor roast lamb, chicken, and grilled fish. The leaves can also be used to make a flavorful tea. Rosemary is rich in antioxidants and has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb to treat various ailments. When growing rosemary, water when the soil is dry and give the plant plenty of sunlight.
5. Cilantro
Cilantro is a versatile herb that is commonly used in Mexican, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisine. It has a fresh, citrusy flavor that can brighten up any dish. Cilantro is also a good source of antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and K. When growing cilantro, water when the soil is dry and give the plant plenty of sunlight.
6. Basil
Basil is a sweet, fragrant herb that is commonly used in Italian cuisine. It’s often used to flavor tomato sauce, pesto, and other dishes. Basil is also a good source of antioxidants and vitamins A and K. Avoid chilly, drafty areas, particularly in the winter. Basil is not a good houseplant for the long run. You may preserve and use it for many weeks, or until the stems get woody. Plant a new set of seeds every few weeks to guarantee a consistent supply.
7. Parsley
Parsley is a popular herb that is used in all sorts of dishes, from roasted chicken to lamb stew. It’s also one of the key ingredients in bouquet garni, a bundle of herbs used to flavor soup, stocks, and other dishes. Parsley’s light, lemony flavor pairs well with many other herbs and seasonings. Grow in a deep pot with rich, organic potting soil and provide strong light.
Conclusion
By following these simple tips, you can easily grow a variety of herbs right on your windowsill. These herbs will not only add flavor to your dishes, but they are also packed with antioxidants and other nutrients that offer health benefits.
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