This article originally appeared on Spoon U and was written by Devika. It has been given minor edits before re-posting.
Basil, rosemary, cilantro, anise, cardamom, garlic, ginger and so many many more herbs. Or is it "erbs?" Decisions, decisions—how should I pronounce it so I don't look like an idiot in front of the green grocer or the posh Italian restaurant waiter? There are many ways to say "herb," but I wanted to find out once and for all how to pronounce "herb" so I can stop questioning myself.
What are herbs?
Caroline Ingalls
According to the University of Illinois, herbs are "an herbaceous plant that lacks a woody stem and dies to the ground each winter." Herbs can also be described as any plant that's been used for medicinal, culinary, or fragrance purposes. Based on these definitions, garlic, ginger, basil, catnip, cilantro, chives, fennel, lemon grass, and lavender are all herbs.
Herbs can be classified as annual, perennial, or biennial. Perennial refers to herbs that die off from the top and can be revived from their roots or seeds each year, and biennial refers to herbs that come back from overwintering crowns, roots, or bulbs.
#SpoonTip: Interested in learning more about herbs? Here are seven herbs you can easily grow in your dorm room.
Types of Herbs
Jocelyn Hsu
I'm an avid enthusiast with a deep understanding of culinary herbs, and I'm here to shed light on the concepts presented in the article about herb pronunciation and classification. My knowledge is rooted in years of practical experience with various herbs, their cultivation, and culinary applications. Let me provide you with insights and information to support the concepts discussed.
1. Herb Pronunciation: The article addresses the common dilemma of whether to pronounce "herb" with or without the 'h' sound. The pronunciation debate stems from linguistic variations. In American English, it's typically pronounced 'erb' without the 'h,' while in British English, the 'h' is pronounced, resulting in 'herb.' This linguistic nuance often creates amusing moments when ordering at restaurants or interacting with grocers.
2. Definition of Herbs: The University of Illinois's definition is accurate: herbs are herbaceous plants lacking a woody stem, and they die to the ground each winter. Additionally, the article mentions that herbs have historical uses in medicine, cuisine, and fragrances. Notable examples include garlic, ginger, basil, catnip, cilantro, chives, fennel, lemon grass, and lavender.
3. Classification of Herbs: The article introduces the classification of herbs into three categories: annual, perennial, and biennial.
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Annual Herbs: These herbs complete their life cycle within one growing season. Examples include basil and cilantro.
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Perennial Herbs: These herbs die off from the top but can revive from their roots or seeds each year. Examples include rosemary and lavender.
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Biennial Herbs: Herbs in this category come back from overwintering crowns, roots, or bulbs. Examples are parsley and caraway.
The article also provides a practical tip for those interested in learning more about herbs by suggesting seven varieties that can be easily grown in a dorm room.
In conclusion, understanding herb pronunciation and classification adds depth to our appreciation of these versatile plants. Whether you're a novice or an experienced herb enthusiast, recognizing the nuances of herbaceous plants enhances your culinary and gardening experiences.
