How to Use Summer Savory in Cooking: A Chef’s Guide for Everyone
Summer savory (Satureja hortensis) is a culinary herb that’s been a staple in kitchens for centuries, thanks to its peppery flavor and versatility. Often described as a cross between thyme and mint with a hint of marjoram, summer savory can elevate your cooking with its unique, earthy profile.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into how to use summer savory like a chef. Whether you’re a home cook or an aspiring food enthusiast, this article will teach you how to bring the best out of this underrated herb.
What Does Summer Savory Taste Like?
The flavor of summer savory is bold, peppery, and slightly spicy, with subtle hints of mint and thyme. It’s less overpowering than winter savory, making it ideal for delicate dishes and everyday cooking.
- Key Flavor Notes: Peppery, earthy, slightly sweet, and mildly minty
- Best Uses: It shines in savory dishes, balancing rich flavors like fatty meats, legumes, and creamy sauces.
Culinary Applications of Summer Savory
1. Beans and Legumes: The “Bean Herb”
Chefs have long called summer savory the “bean herb” because it complements the earthiness of legumes and helps reduce their gassiness.
- How to Use: Add dried or fresh leaves to lentils, chickpeas, or any bean-based dish during cooking.
- Recipes:
- White bean soup with summer savory and garlic
- Lentil stew seasoned with savory and smoked paprika
2. Meats and Poultry
Summer savory’s bold flavor cuts through the richness of fatty meats, making it a perfect seasoning for pork, lamb, chicken, and turkey.
- How to Use:
- Rub chopped fresh leaves or dried savory onto meats before grilling or roasting.
- Add it to marinades for an extra layer of flavor.
- Recipes:
- Herb-crusted lamb chops with summer savory
- Roasted chicken infused with savory and lemon
3. Vegetables
Summer savory pairs beautifully with roasted or sautéed vegetables, especially root vegetables, squash, and green beans.
- How to Use:
- Sprinkle fresh leaves over vegetables before roasting.
- Toss into sautéed zucchini or green beans for a flavorful finish.
- Recipes:
- Roasted carrots with honey and savory
- Sautéed zucchini with garlic and summer savory
4. Soups and Stews
As a robust herb, summer savory enhances the depth of broths and stews without overpowering other ingredients.
- How to Use:
- Add it early in the cooking process for soups and stews to let the flavor meld.
- Use as a garnish for a fresh, herbal note.
- Recipes:
- Beef stew with savory and thyme
- Potato leek soup with a sprinkle of summer savory
5. Herb Blends and Seasonings
Summer savory is a key ingredient in traditional herb blends like herbes de Provence and stuffing mixes.
- How to Use:
- Mix with rosemary, thyme, and oregano for an all-purpose herb blend.
- Use it in stuffing or breadcrumbs for meats and vegetables.
- Recipes:
- Homemade herbes de Provence blend
- Savory breadcrumb topping for baked casseroles
6. Baking with Savory
Though less common, summer savory can add a unique twist to savory baked goods.
- How to Use:
- Incorporate chopped leaves into bread dough or biscuit batter.
- Use it in savory scones or quiches.
- Recipes:
- Summer savory and cheddar biscuits
- Herb-infused focaccia with savory and rosemary
7. Infusions
Summer savory can be used to infuse oils, vinegars, and even honey, creating flavorful bases for dressings, marinades, and drizzles.
- How to Use:
- Heat olive oil with a few sprigs of fresh savory, then strain for a homemade herb oil.
- Steep savory in vinegar for a tangy, herbal infusion.
- Recipes:
- Savory-infused olive oil for salads
- Herb vinegar for marinades
Using Fresh vs. Dried Summer Savory
- Fresh Summer Savory:
- Best for recipes requiring a bright, herbal flavor.
- Use as a garnish or add toward the end of cooking.
- Substitution Ratio: 3 parts fresh = 1 part dried.
- Dried Summer Savory:
- More concentrated in flavor, ideal for slow-cooked dishes.
- Add early in the cooking process to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for Cooking Like a Chef
- Balance the Flavors: Pair summer savory with other herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley to create layered flavors.
- Experiment with Dishes: Don’t be afraid to add a pinch to unexpected recipes like savory pancakes or infused cocktails.
- Know When to Add It:
- Use dried savory early in cooking for maximum infusion.
- Add fresh savory at the end for a bright, herbal touch.
Health Benefits of Cooking with Summer Savory
Beyond its flavor, summer savory adds a nutritional boost to your meals:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Protects against free radical damage.
- Aids Digestion: Reduces bloating and gas, especially in bean-based dishes.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Helps combat inflammation and promote overall wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use summer savory as a substitute for thyme?
Yes, summer savory is a great substitute for thyme, but its flavor is bolder and more peppery.
2. How do I store summer savory?
- Fresh: Wrap in a damp paper towel and store in the fridge for up to a week.
- Dried: Keep in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
3. Can I grow my own summer savory?
Yes! It’s an easy-to-grow annual herb. Plant it in well-drained soil and a sunny spot for a fresh supply all season long.
Conclusion
Summer savory is a culinary powerhouse that every home cook should embrace. From seasoning hearty beans to elevating grilled meats and roasted vegetables, it adds a unique depth of flavor to any dish. By incorporating it into your cooking, you can create restaurant-quality meals with ease.
