About RosemaryRosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a woody, perennial herb with fragrant evergreen needle-like leaves. It is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the mint family Lamiaceae, which also includes many other herbs.
The name rosemary has nothing to do with the rose or the name Mary, but derives from the Latin name rosmarinus, which is from "dew" (ros) and "sea" (marinus), or "dew of the sea" - apparently because it is frequently found growing near the sea.
Buying Rosemary
Look for straight, supple leaves. Take hold of the end of the "needle"; if the leaf does not bend, the rosemary has begun to dry out.
Storing Rosemary
Store in a perforated plastic bag in the vegetable crisper of the refrigerator.
When frozen, rosemary loses some of its piquancy.
Preparing Rosemary
Rosemary has the unique quality of adding a salty flavor; it’s important to keep this in mind when seasoning.
Chop or snip the leaves coarsely to cover a roast.
Wrap the leaves in a cheesecloth sachet and add to a dish to flavor it.
Once the leaves are removed, the branches can be used as skewers for brochettes.
Cooking Rosemary
Rosemary has a strong flavor that goes well in marinades and with red wine. Infused into a jelly, it makes a good accompaniment to pâté and game.
Use it generously to flavor veal, poultry and lamb, particularly in dishes braised with wine, garlic and olive oil.
Rosemary loves garlic, tomatoes, any roasted meat, olive oil… and apple jelly.
Its flavor, with hints of evergreen, stands up to high heat and is perfect for barbecuing.
Brush your lamb chops with a mixture of mustard and rosemary before cooking.
Easy idea - Place a few rosemary leaves on some Italian bread brushed with olive oil. Toast in the oven. Serve with a tomato salad, olives, etc.
Nutritional Values
Rich in calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin C and provitamin A.
Health Benefits
The wonderful smell of rosemary is often associated with good food and great times. But it could just as easily be associated with good health. Rosemary contains substances that are useful for stimulating the immune system, increasing circulation, and improving digestion. Rosemary also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may make it useful for reducing the severity of asthma attacks. In addition, rosemary has been shown to increase the blood flow to the head and brain, improving concentration. So, the next time you enhance the flavor of some special dish with rosemary, congratulate yourself for a wise as well as delicious choice.
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