Organic Herbs and Spices

The sense of smell plays a crucial role in determining the flavour of a dish. Research suggests that as much as 80% of flavour comes from aroma. This strong correlation between aroma and flavour helps to explain the widespread use of herbs and spices in cooking.

Spices and herbs are widely used in the culinary world for their unique and distinct flavours. They are sourced from a wide variety of plant species and can be harvested from various parts such as seeds, leaves, bark, roots, nuts, flowers and berries. Each plant species has its own unique flavour profile, depending on the part of the plant used.

However, what all these spices and herbs have in common is their strong and distinct pungency, which sets them apart from other crops. The unique and distinct flavour profile of spices and herbs make them an ideal ingredient in the kitchen, as they have a strong signature flavour that cannot be replicated by other ingredients.

Organic Herbs:

Organic Herbs are an important aspect of cooking, adding flavour and aroma to dishes. They are the leaves and flowers of plants that are used, either fresh or dried, to enhance the taste of culinary dishes.

Herbs are the leaves of plants that are used for flavouring and seasoning food. Some popular herbs include basil, thyme, rosemary, and cilantro. These herbs have distinct and unique flavours that can be used to add depth and complexity to dishes.

Basil is a sweet, spicy, and slightly peppery herb that is often used in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. Thyme is a strong, pungent, and slightly minty herb that is often used in meat dishes, stews, and soups.

Rosemary is a strong, pungent, and slightly woody herb that is often used in meat dishes, stews, and soups. Cilantro is a strong, pungent, and slightly bitter herb that is often used in Asian and Latin American cuisine.

Organic Spices:

Organic Spices are the seeds, roots, bark, or other parts of plants that are used for flavouring and preserving food. Some popular spices include cinnamon, black pepper, cumin, turmeric, and ginger. 

Black pepper is a strong, pungent, and slightly spicy spice that is often used to season meat, fish, and vegetables.

Cinnamon is a sweet, warm, and slightly spicy spice that is often used in sweet dishes, such as pastries and cakes, as well as savoury dishes, such as stews and curries. Turmeric is a warm, bitter, and slightly spicy spice that is often used in savoury dishes, such as curries and stews. Cumin is a strong, earthy, and slightly spicy spice that is often used in meat dishes, stews, and curries.

Ginger is a strong, pungent, and slightly spicy spice that is often used in savoury dishes, such as stews and curries, as well as sweet dishes, such as cakes and cookies.

Organic Herbs and Spices vs. Non-organic Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices are essential ingredients in any recipe, they can elevate the flavours in any dish. They perfectly balance the creaminess of coconut milk in curries, add depth to pasta dishes, amplify the natural earthy taste of vegetables such as parsnips, eggplant, and mushrooms, and even enhance the flavours of the simplest meals. However, did you know that there are ways to extract even more flavour from your herbs and spices?

Consumers are increasingly aware of the impact of the food they eat on the environment and the farmers who grow it. They are looking for sustainable and ethical food options, such as organic and locally-sourced products, to ensure that their food supports the communities and the environment.

This growing trend has led to an increased demand for organic and sustainably-grown herbs and spices, as well as an awareness of the importance of fair-trade practices in the spice industry. Consumers are also interested in learning more about the origin of their food and how it is grown and processed.

When it comes to buying herbs and spices, choosing organic options can provide a number of benefits. On your next trip to the market, you might want to choose organic for the following reasons:

Non-organic Herbs and Spices with Fillers

Non-organic herbs and spices may contain fillers, which are added to increase the weight or volume of the product. These fillers can be other herbs, spices, or even non-food materials, such as sawdust or sand, which are added to stretch the product and make it appear to be of higher quality or quantity.

Fillers can also be added to non-organic herbs and spices to reduce the cost of production and increase profit margins. This can result in a product that is less pure and less flavorful than an organic or pure version of the same herb or spice.

Reduce Pesticides and Synthetics with Organic Spices and Herbs

Organic herbs and spices are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilisers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This means that they are not exposed to potentially harmful chemicals, making them a good choice for you and your family.

Organic farmers use natural methods to control pests and diseases, such as crop rotation and companion planting, rather than relying on synthetic chemicals.

Organic Herbs and Spices: They Taste Better

Organic farming methods rely on natural fertilisers and pest control methods, which can help to promote the growth of plants with a diverse range of phytonutrients. These phytonutrients can contribute to the overall flavour and nutritional quality of the crops. Additionally, organic farming often promotes biodiversity, which can further improve the flavour of the crops.

The use of synthetic chemicals in conventional farming can mask the unique characteristics and flavour of the herbs, fruits and vegetables that are grown in specific regions.

Organic farming allows the terroir (the unique combination of soil, climate, and other natural factors) to come through in the crops. This can result in more distinct, complex and unique flavours, as each crop will have its own unique characteristics that are determined by the growing region.

Organic Herbs and Spices: A Greener Flavor Profile

Organic farming practices can have a positive impact on the environment by reducing emissions and pollution, preserving soil health, and promoting biodiversity. Organic farming practices like crop rotation, composting, and the use of natural pest control methods can help to reduce the use of synthetic chemicals and fossil fuels, which can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. 

Additionally, organic farming practices such as cover cropping and minimal tillage can help to improve soil health and sequester carbon in the soil, which can help to mitigate the effects of climate change.

At Thames Organic Store, we offer a wide selection of organic herbs, spices, and seasonings, all sourced from the freshest ingredients. We strive to make your shopping experience effortless and convenient.