savory

Savory

Savory, also known as summer savory or winter savory, is an herb prized for its pungent, peppery flavor. Its delicate leaves, typically green and needle-like, offer a warm, slightly spicy taste with hints of thyme and marjoram. Often used as a substitute for pepper, savory adds a unique depth to culinary creations. Find out more about using savory to enhance your favorite recipes and discover the subtle nuances of this versatile herb. Whether you're looking for information on savory's flavor profile, nutritional benefits, or different types of savory herbs, we've got you covered.

Common Uses

  • Using savory to season meats: Summer savory is excellent for seasoning grilled chicken, roasted pork, and even lamb. Its peppery notes complement rich meats, adding a flavorful dimension without overpowering the dish.
  • Adding savory to bean dishes for enhanced flavor and digestion: Savory is a classic addition to bean dishes like stews, soups, and casseroles. Its compounds are thought to help reduce bloating and gas often associated with bean consumption, while also adding a unique, herbaceous flavor.
  • Infusing oils and vinegars with savory for a flavorful condiment: Create your own flavored oils and vinegars by infusing them with savory. Simply add a few sprigs of savory to a bottle of olive oil or white wine vinegar, letting it steep for a few weeks to extract the herb's essence. Use this savory-infused oil or vinegar as a dressing or marinade.
  • Using savory in herb blends and spice mixes to add depth of flavor: Savory is a great addition to herb blends like herbes de Provence or za'atar. It adds a unique peppery note that complements other herbs and spices, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the blend.
  • Flavoring stuffings and dressings with savory for a unique herbal note: Incorporate chopped fresh or dried savory into your favorite stuffing or dressing recipes. Its aromatic and slightly spicy flavor adds a warm and comforting note, perfect for holiday meals or everyday dinners.
  • Using savory as a substitute for salt and pepper to add flavor without the sodium: Reduce your sodium intake by using savory as a flavor enhancer. Its peppery taste can replace pepper, while its overall flavor profile adds depth and complexity, reducing the need for excessive salt.

Health Benefits

  • May aid digestion and relieve bloating due to its carminative properties.
  • Rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
  • Contains vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and potassium, contributing to overall health.
  • Traditionally used to help soothe coughs and sore throats.
  • May possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing inflammation in the body.
  • Supports healthy blood sugar levels when incorporated into a balanced diet.

Storage Tips

Savory can be stored in several ways to preserve its flavor and potency. Fresh savory should be loosely wrapped in a damp paper towel and stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator; it will typically last for about a week. Dried savory should be kept in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a pantry or spice cabinet. Properly stored dried savory can maintain its quality for up to a year. For long-term storage of fresh savory, consider freezing it. Chop the herb and freeze it in ice cube trays with water or olive oil; transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag once solid.

Make money with your recipes.

Cook, Share, and Earn - get started today!

Background Squiggy
Chefadora App

Get cooking with the Chefadora App.

Available now for early access users.

Download on the App StoreDownload on the App Store
chefadora
© 2025 Chefadora Pty Ltd, All Rights Reserved

Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia