Top Five Reasons To Make Your Own Herbes de Provence (and How To Do it!)
Herbes de Provence is mixture of dried Provencal herbs that are considered typical of the Provence region of southeastern France.
When I was growing up, I remember my mom adding this to everything! It is very versatile, and it is an easy way to add depth and flavor to any dish.
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Where can you get Herbes de Provence?
Each time I go to France, I pick up a few bags at the local market. If you are in the south of France, especially the Provence region, you can be sure that there will be at least one vendor selling bags or jars of this tasty blend of herbs.
The last time I was there, I stocked up. But recently, I used the last little bit that I had left.
So, I went to our local grocery store and bought a jar of Herbs de Provence in the herbs and spices section. But, I was disappointed. I found that it didn’t taste as fresh, it had extra things added to it, and it was definitely not as good as the real deal.
Store bought herbes de Provence just isn’t as good.
I decided to make my own, and I was pleasantly surprised at how authentic it tasted! I noticed a big difference in the flavor that it added compared to the store bought kind.
This convinced me that making my own was a far better option.
The top five reasons to make your own Herbes de Provence
There is no set recipe for Herbes de Provence. But, most blends include a similar set of herbs.
- The flavor is more authentic.
- No other added flavors like the ones in the grocery store.
- Control how fresh your ingredients are.
- Go as far as growing your own herbs, drying them, and making a wonderfully fresh blend.
- Depending on what you are seasoning, you get to decide how much of each herb you add to the blend.
- Never run out.
- Whip up a batch in five minutes, and never be stuck without it again!
- This blend makes a thoughtful, homemade gift for friends and family for nearly any occasion.
What is in Herbes de Provence?
I checked out the label that was on the last bag that I bought from the market in Cucuron, France. It listed the following ingredients:
- Thyme
- Basil
- Rosemary
- Savory
- Marjoram
Sometimes you will also see other herbs, such as Tarragon, Bay leaf, or Oregano added.
Dried lavender is sometimes included. But, this is not the “typical” blend. In my opinion, it adds too much of a floral taste. I find that sticking to the original five herbs makes the blend much more versatile.
Heres how to make It
Herbes de Provence
Equipment
- food processor – optional
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp dried Thyme
- 2 tbsp dried Basil
- 2 tbsp dried Rosemary
- 2 tbsp dried Savory
- 2 tbsp dried Marjoram
Instructions
- Measure out all of the ingredients into a jar with a lid, and shake until combined.
- If you are using your home grown dried herbs, measure out all of the ingredients into a food processor, and blend until the desired consistency is reached.
- Yields approximately 2/3 cup of herbs
Uses for Herbes de Provence
Herbes to Provence is a very versatile blend of herbs that can be added to virtually anything!
When I was growing up, we added it to our gumbo, and soups. My mom also used it on chicken breasts, before baking them. You can sprinkle it over any meat or fish before, or during cooking.
Some people like it sprinkled onto salads, or marinades.
Try it on this classic French mushroom dish.
Mix it into homemade breads, like this one from Sally’s baking addiction.
Try sprinkling some over olive oil, for a delicious dip for your crusty baguette.
How long do Herbs de Provence last?
Store your Herbs de Provence in tightly sealed container, in a cool, dark place, away from direct heat or sunlight, and it will last anywhere from 1-3 years. Once it loses its fragrant smell, then you should probably toss it, and make a new batch.
Herbes de Provence
Now that you know how to make your own, go ahead and experiment with adding it to different dishes.
I know you will love the flavor. Don’t be surprised when you start putting it on everything!
Bon appetit!
-Gaby
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