About Rosemary:
Rosemary is a versatile, aromatic herb. It is used in a wide variety of dishes, including fruit salads, soups, vegetables, meats (especially lamb), fish, eggs, stuffings, dressings and even desserts. It is also used to scent cosmetics and perfumes, in insect repellants, and has medicinal uses.
Botanical Name:
Rosmarinus officinalis, meaning dew of the sea
Common names and other names:
rosemarin, romero, romarin, rosemarino, mi tieh hsiang, rozmarin, alecrim
Rosemary Availability:
All forms of rosemary are available year-round in most markets.
Rosemary Selection:
Fresh rosemary sprigs should have green pliable leaves that are not brittle or dry.
Rosemary Forms:
Fresh rosemary is available in the produce section of most markets year-round. Dried and powdered versions are readily available in the spice section.
Rosemary Storage:
Store fresh rosemary in a plastic bag or in a glass of water in the refrigerator. To dry your own rosemary, hang fresh sprigs in a warm, dry place. Be sure to strip off the leaves before storing. This is easily done after the sprigs are dry by putting them in a plastic bag and rubbing them off the stem. Store in an airtight container, in a cool, dry place, away from light, to preserve freshness and flavor.
Miscellaneous Rosemary Information:
Warning: Essential, distilled rosemary oil, (not not to be confused with flavored cooking oils), should never be taken internally. It is poisonous in strong doses. Be sure to consult your physician before attempting any medicinal use of any herb, spice or other home remedy.
