No two mixtures of Herbes de Provence are alike, but they all contain some combination of aromatic herbs essential to Provencal cooking. This mix recipe contains dried thyme, oregano, rosemary, basil, savory, and marjoram. Sprinkle it on grilled foods or season tomato sauces, omelets, stewed meats, soups, Baked Potatoes, and marinades. 😉
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What is Herbes de Provence?
Herbes de Provence is a mixture of dried herbs commonly used in Provence's cuisine in southeastern France. The blend typically includes a combination of savory, thyme, rosemary, marjoram, oregano, and sometimes other herbs such as basil, fennel, or sage. The exact composition of the blend can vary depending on the producer or the cook.
Still, herbs are usually chosen to complement various dishes, including roasted meats, fish, vegetables, stews, and sauces. Herbes de Provence is a popular seasoning in French and Mediterranean cooking and is also used in other international cuisines. It is available in most grocery stores and can be easily made at home by combining herbs in the desired proportions.
Ingredients
Note: The full ingredients list is provided in the recipe card below.
- Dried Thyme: Thyme adds a warm, earthy, and slightly minty flavor. It is a versatile herb that complements many dishes, from roasted meats to soups and stews.
- Dried Oregano: Oregano provides a bold and slightly bitter flavor with hints of citrus and pine.
- Dried Rosemary: Rosemary has a strong, woody, and pine-like aroma and flavor.
- Dried Basil: Basil imparts a sweet and slightly peppery taste with a hint of anise. It's a key ingredient in Italian and Mediterranean cooking and is often used in tomato-based sauces.
- Dried Savory: Savory has a savory, peppery, and slightly minty flavor.
- Dried Marjoram: Marjoram is a member of the oregano family and has a delicate, sweet, and floral flavor with hints of citrus.
Tools you'll need
How to Make Herbes de Provence
Note: The full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.
In a small mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients. Store in an air-tight container.Substitutions
- Thyme: If you don't have dried thyme, substitute it with dried marjoram or oregano. Both herbs have a similar flavor profile and can work well in the blend.
- Oregano: Dried marjoram can be a good substitute for oregano if you prefer a milder flavor. You can also use dried basil or a combination of basil and thyme for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Rosemary: If you don't have rosemary, you can try using dried tarragon, savory, or a combination of dried thyme and sage. Each herb will add its unique flavor to the blend.
- Basil: If you're out of basil, you can use dried parsley or tarragon as alternatives. They won't have the same flavor as basil, but they can contribute to the overall herb blend.
- Savory: If you can't find savory, a good substitute would be dried thyme or a combination of dried and marjoram. It will provide a similar earthy and peppery flavor.
- Marjoram: If you don't have marjoram, use dried oregano or thyme instead. They will add a slightly different flavor but still work well in the blend.
Variations
- Lemon Herbes de Provence: Add some lemon zest or dried lemon peel to the traditional blend for a citrusy twist.
- Add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the traditional blend for a bit of heat.
- Mediterranean Herbes de Provence: Add dried lavender, tarragon, or sage to the traditional blend for a Mediterranean twist.
- Citrus Herbes de Provence: Add some dried orange peel or lemon thyme to the traditional blend for a citrusy flavor.
- Provençal Herbes de Provence: Use only the herbs that are native to the region of Provence, such as savory, thyme, rosemary, and oregano, for a more authentic flavor.
How to Serve
- As a seasoning for grilled meats and vegetables: Sprinkle Herbes de Provence on chicken, steak, fish, or vegetables before grilling to add flavor.
- In tomato-based sauces: Add Herbes de Provence to tomato sauces for pasta, pizza, or lasagna for a savory flavor.
- In soups and stews: Add Herbes de Provence to soups and stews for a fragrant and flavorful seasoning.
- In omelets or scrambled eggs: Add a pinch of Herbes de Provence to omelets or scrambled eggs for a savory breakfast.
- On roasted potatoes or vegetables: Toss roasted potatoes or vegetables with Herbes de Provence and olive oil before roasting for a flavorful side dish.
- In marinades: Use Herbes de Provence as a marinade for chicken, fish, or beef to add flavor before cooking.
How to Store
It is best to keep Herbes de Provence in an airtight container or a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as exposure to light and heat can degrade the flavors and aromas of the herbs. Properly stored, the blend can maintain its quality for several months, although the flavors may diminish. Be sure to label the container with the date of preparation for reference.
Make-Ahead
To make Herbes de Provence, combine the dried herbs—such as thyme, oregano, rosemary, basil, savory, and marjoram—in a small mixing bowl. Mix them thoroughly and transfer the herb blend into an airtight container or glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Label the container with the name and date, and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, such as a pantry or spice cabinet. This allows you to have the Herbes de Provence readily available for future use, making it convenient to season your dishes with the aromatic flavors of Provence.
Tips for Making The Best Herbes de Provence
- Use good-quality dried herbs: The herbs' quality will directly impact your seasoning's flavor. Be sure to use high-quality, fresh, fragrant dried herbs for the best results.
- Adjust the proportions to your taste: The Herbes de Provence blend can be adjusted to your preferences. Play around with the ratios of the different herbs until you find the perfect combination you love.
- Use a mortar and pestle: For the best flavor, consider using a mortar and pestle to grind the herbs together. This will help to release the essential oils and enhance the flavor of the seasoning.
- Store the seasoning properly: Store the seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help to preserve the flavor and aroma of the herbs.
- Use it in moderation: Herbes de Provence is a potent seasoning, so it's best to use it in moderation. Start with a small amount and taste to avoid overpowering the dish with too much seasoning.
- Customize the blend: Add other herbs or spices to create your unique blend. For example, add dried lavender or fennel seeds for a different flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
While the recipe is traditionally made with dried herbs, you can certainly use fresh herbs if you have them. Remember that fresh herbs have a higher water content than dried herbs, so you may need to adjust the proportions accordingly.
Can I make this recipe without one of the herbs listed in the recipe?
You can make the recipe without one or more herbs listed in the recipe. Just be sure to substitute with a similar herb that will complement the other flavors in the blend.
Should I crush or grind the herbs before mixing them?
You can choose to crush or grind the herbs before mixing them if you want a finer texture. This can help distribute the flavors more evenly in your dishes. However, keeping the herbs whole can also work well, especially if you prefer a more rustic texture.
Can I use Herbes de Provence as a substitute for other herbs?
Yes, Herbes de Provence can be used as a substitute for other herbs in recipes, especially if the recipe calls for a blend of herbs. Remember that Herbes de Provence has a distinct flavor profile, so it may not be the best substitute for every herb.
How can I tell if my Herbes De Provence has gone bad?
If your Herbes De Provence has lost its aroma and vibrant color or developed an off-putting smell, it may be past its prime and should be replaced. Proper storage helps extend its shelf life.
Related Recipes:
Recipe
Easy Herbes De Provence
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons dried rosemary
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 2 tablespoons dried savory
- 2 tablespoons dried marjoram
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients together. Store in an air-tight container.
Notes
All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods, and portion sizes per household.