The Practical Guide to Using Herbs

Author: Jessica Houdret Joanna Farrow

ISBN10: 754816478
ISBN13: 9780754816478

Publisher: Lorenz Books

Price: £14.99
Pages: 512
Edition: Hardback with plc and jacket
Publish date: julio 2006

Outline:
A comprehensive visual A-Z botanical directory of herbs for easy plant identification, including full descriptions and information on history, habitat & cultivation, related species and uses of the herbs, with many detailed features on major herbs. How to design various styles of herb garden, with examples, planting lists and illustrated plans, from kitchen gardens, raised beds and herb wheels to informal beds and borders, containers and window boxes. Expert advice on planting and cultivation techniques, including step-by-step propagation, planting, training, acre and maintenance, harvesting, drying, preserving and storing. More than 300 delicious and unusual recipes that make the most of fresh herbs, from soups, snacks and fresh salads to delectably fragrant fish, meat, rices, breads and desserts - each beautifully illustrated with step-by-step shots and the final mouthwatering dish. Over 1500 stunning colour photographs of herbs, herb gardens and herb recipes. Herbs have been highly regarded by different cultures throughout history. Today they are prized for their range of scents and seasoning qualities as much as their medicinal properties and they are widely used both in the kitchen and as an integral ingredient in natural remedies - as well as being appreciated as garden plants of beauty and fragrance.This comprehensive book contains everything you need to know about successfully growing and cooking with these robust plants, including expert advice on choosing which plants to grow and where to grow them, as well as instructive step-by-step techniques to guide you through the entire growing process, from planning and preparation to harvesting, drying and preserving. There are garden designs with illustrated plans to follow, from knot gardens to raised beds, herb wheels and herb containers.The botanical A-Z directory of herbs contains over 250 individually photographed herbs with plant descriptions. Essential information on habitat, cultivation, and the parts of the herb used for their culinary fragrance or medicinal properties is given.Many herbs have a natural affinity with food, and they can be used both to complement and enliven ingredients in a subtle way or permeate the whole dish with a deliciously pungent scent. Chopped, torn and sprinkled, herbs add interest to a whole variety of dishes - from soups and summery salads to herb breads, meat and poultry, fish, vegetable dishes, cakes, desserts and ices. Over 300 aromatic recipes include Sorrel, Spinach and Dill Soup, Pork Belly with Five Spices, Baked Herb Crepes, Warm Herby Bread and Lavender Cake. Herbs can also be used to flavour teas, drinks, cordials, sugars, salts, butters, stocks, sauces, chutneys and marinades, and for decorative garnishes.With more than 1500 stunning colour photographs and easy-to-follow expert advice this book will help you to harness the scent, flavour and health benefits of these deliciously versatile plants, both in the garden and at the dinner table.