If you're looking for a delicious way to add flavor to your meals while only adding 77 calories per ounce, then savory spice may just be what you need. This lesser-known herb has a unique taste that's similar to thyme and mint, making it a fantastic addition to many different meals.

Not only is savory a tasty spice, but it's also a great way to add some extra nutrients to your diet. It's high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, including iron, calcium, and magnesium.

In this article, we'll explore the health benefits of savory and how you can incorporate it into your recipes.

Savory Spice

Savory spice is derived from the annual herb called Satureja hortensis, which is native to the Mediterranean region. There are two main types of savory spice: summer savory and winter savory. Summer savory has a milder flavor, while winter savory has a stronger, more pungent taste. Savory spice can be used in a variety of dishes, including stews, soups, sauces, and roasted meats. It pairs well with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano.

Savory in a Low-Calorie Diet

If you're looking to maintain a low-calorie diet, then incorporating savory into your meals can be a great way to add flavor without adding many calories. Savory has been found to have appetite-suppressing effects, thanks to its high fiber content. It also helps to stabilize blood sugar levels and can improve digestion, making it an excellent addition to any weight loss diet. However, it's important to note that adding savory to meals won't automatically lead to weight loss - it needs to be paired with a healthy diet and exercise routine.

1 Oz Savory and Weight Loss

Just one ounce of savory spice contains only 77 calories, making it a great low-calorie addition to any meal. As mentioned earlier, savory can also help you lose weight by suppressing your appetite, stabilizing blood sugar levels, and improving digestion. Incorporating savory into your meals can be a great way to keep you feeling full for longer periods, helping you to eat less and stay on track with your weight loss goals.

How to Incorporate Savory in Your Recipes

Savory can be used in many different types of dishes, from soups and stews to roasted meats and vegetables. To incorporate savory into your recipes, start by adding a small amount to see how it affects the taste. If you're using fresh savory, add it towards the end of the cooking time to preserve its flavor. You can also mix savory with other herbs to create unique flavor combinations, or use it as a substitute for other herbs like thyme or oregano. The possibilities are endless!

Savory Health Benefits

Not only is savory a tasty addition to your meals, but it's also packed with nutrients that can benefit your health. Savory is high in antioxidants, which help to protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. It's also high in calcium, iron, and magnesium, which are essential for bone health, blood oxygenation, and nerve function. Other potential health benefits of savory include improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and boosting the immune system.

Savory Nutritional Information

One ounce of savory spice contains 77 calories, 14 grams of carbohydrates, and 7 grams of protein. It's also high in fiber, with 7 grams per ounce, and low in fat, with just 1.4 grams per ounce. Savory is also packed with vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and K. Overall, savory is a great way to add nutrition and flavor to your meals without adding many calories.

Precautions for Using Savory

Savory is generally safe for most people to consume in moderation, but there are a few precautions to keep in mind. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, it's best to avoid using savory in medicinal amounts, as there's limited research on its safety during these times. In rare cases, some people may be allergic to savory, so it's important to watch for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, itching, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using savory immediately and seek medical attention.

How to Store Savory

To keep your savory spice fresh for longer periods, it's best to store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or any heat sources. You can also store fresh savory in the refrigerator in a plastic bag, but be sure to use it within a few days. Dried savory can last for several months if stored properly. To check if your savory is still good, give it a sniff - if it smells musty or off, it's time to replace it.

Substitutes for Savory

If you don't have any savory on hand or can't find it at your local grocery store, don't worry - there are several spices that can be used as substitutes. Thyme is a great substitute for summer savory, while rosemary or sage can be used in place of winter savory. Oregano and marjoram are also similar to savory in taste and can be used as substitutes. While these spices may not have the exact same taste as savory, they can still provide a similar flavor that will complement many different dishes.

The History of Savory

Savory has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb and a flavoring agent in many different cuisines. The ancient Greeks and Romans used savory to aid digestion and treat various ailments, while medieval Europeans used it to flavor sauces and meats. Today, savory is still used in many traditional dishes around the world, from French cassoulet to Italian pasta sauces.