Chives are associated with the element fire and the planet Mars. They are an ancient type of a bulb-forming perennial culinary herb directly related to garlic, onion, scallions, and leeks; although among all of those spices, chives are the only species of Allium native to both the New and Old World. Chives are members of the lily family, they’re grown for their leaves and flowers which are equally popular in the garden, and the kitchen.
Mystically chives are known for their protection against evil and diseases. This herb quickly gained the reputation of chasing away evil spirits and disease: so it is commonly planted outside a home’s windows and brought indoors to the kitchen.
The medicinal benefits of chives are similar to those of garlic, but not as strong. Chives are a mild antiseptic; and are anti-hypertensive, in large quantities can lower blood pressure. A historical (never medically tested) use of Allium schoenoprasum was to expel intestinal parasites. Chinese medicine suggests chives can be used for colds, flu, and lung congestion.
Culinary
Because their flavor is so mild and their color so vivid, chives are an ideal addition to spreads, herb butters, and dips, tossed in salads; and even used as a flavoring for vinegars. Using the blossoms in the vinegar colors soft pink, and makes a nice gift when bottled in decorative glass. Add to dishes just before serving, because their mild flavor is destroyed by heat. The purple flowers of onion chives float beautifully in soup.
One of the most popular uses of chives today is as one of the components in the traditional herb mixture fines herbs. Combined in equal portions with tarragon, chervil, and parsley this blend adds aromatic flavors to chicken and fish dishes, and is especially tasty with eggs. Omelets made with fines herbs, asparagus, goat cheese, and garnished with chive blossoms makes a delicious spring entree.
Gardening
Chives are cultivated both for their culinary uses and their ornamental value; the violet flowers are often used in fine herb blends, and ornamental dry bouquets.
Culinary
Because their flavor is so mild and their color so vivid, chives are an ideal addition to spreads, herb butters, and dips, tossed in salads; and even used as a flavoring for vinegars. Using the blossoms in the vinegar colors soft pink, and makes a nice gift when bottled in decorative glass. Add to dishes just before serving, because their mild flavor is destroyed by heat. The purple flowers of onion chives float beautifully in soup.
One of the most popular uses of chives today is as one of the components in the traditional herb mixture fines herbs. Combined in equal portions with tarragon, chervil, and parsley this blend adds aromatic flavors to chicken and fish dishes, and is especially tasty with eggs. Omelets made with fines herbs, asparagus, goat cheese, and garnished with chive blossoms makes a delicious spring entree.
Gardening
Chives are cultivated both for their culinary uses and their ornamental value; the violet flowers are often used in fine herb blends, and ornamental dry bouquets.
Chives thrive in well-drained soil rich in organic matter, and it’s best to plant them in full sun. In late summer, dig up a couple of plants; pot them, and move them to your windowsill for a nice winter source of fresh flavorful snips.
Harvest & Storing
You can begin harvesting chive leaves as soon as they are tall enough to clip. Cut them from the outside of the clump about 1/2 inch above soil level, always leaving plenty to restore energy to
the plant.
Harvest & Storing
You can begin harvesting chive leaves as soon as they are tall enough to clip. Cut them from the outside of the clump about 1/2 inch above soil level, always leaving plenty to restore energy to
the plant.
You can store extra’s for winter use by chopping and freezing the leaves, or you can preserve them in herb butters, oils, and vinegars; they blend well with parsley and tarragon.
#aromatic #chives #chiveflowers #culinary #enchantments #flavoredvinegar #gardening #healthyeating #herbs #herbharvest #herbstoring #livinggreen #naturalfoods #noordinarychick #ornamentaldrybouquets
#aromatic #chives #chiveflowers #culinary #enchantments #flavoredvinegar #gardening #healthyeating #herbs #herbharvest #herbstoring #livinggreen #naturalfoods #noordinarychick #ornamentaldrybouquets
No comments:
Post a Comment