Ground savory is a delicious spice that adds depth and complexity to a range of dishes. Not only is it flavorful, but it's also low in calories, with just 5 calories per teaspoon. Whether you're looking to add some zest to your roasted vegetables or some savoriness to your meat dishes, ground savory is an excellent spice to have in your kitchen.

In addition to being low in calories, ground savory is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help boost your immune system and reduce your risk of disease. It's also a good source of iron, calcium, and magnesium, which are important for strong bones and healthy blood cells.

In this article, we'll explore the different varieties of ground savory, how to use it in cooking, and some tips and tricks for storing and preserving it for future use.

What is Ground Savory?

Ground savory is a spice that comes from the dried leaves of the savory plant. It's part of the mint family and has a pungent, slightly bitter taste that's reminiscent of thyme or oregano. It's commonly used in Mediterranean and French cuisine and pairs well with a variety of other spices, such as garlic, rosemary, and bay leaves. Ground savory is often used to flavor meat dishes, such as stews, roasts, and sausages. It can also be used to add depth to vegetarian dishes, such as roasted vegetables, soups, and grains.

The Low Calorie Count of Ground Savory

As mentioned earlier, ground savory is very low in calories, with just 5 calories per teaspoon. This makes it an excellent choice for those who are watching their weight or trying to maintain a healthy diet. Compared to other spices, such as ground coriander or ground cumin, which can have as many as 20 calories per teaspoon, ground savory is a great option for adding flavor without adding empty calories.

The Health Benefits of Ground Savory

In addition to being low in calories, ground savory also has a number of health benefits. It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help boost your immune system and reduce your risk of disease. It's also a good source of iron, calcium, and magnesium, which are important for strong bones and healthy blood cells. Studies have also shown that savory may have antimicrobial properties that can help fight off harmful bacteria and viruses. Some research has even suggested that it may be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes, as it can help regulate blood sugar levels.

How to Use Ground Savory in Cooking

Ground savory can be used in a variety of dishes to add flavor and depth. It pairs well with a range of meats, such as beef, pork, and lamb, as well as with vegetables, soups, and stews. To use ground savory in cooking, simply sprinkle it onto your dish during the cooking process, or add it to your spice blend before seasoning your meats and vegetables. You can also mix it with other herbs and spices to create your own custom blend.

The Different Varieties of Ground Savory

There are two main varieties of savory: summer savory and winter savory. Summer savory is milder and sweeter than winter savory, which has a more pungent, bitter flavor. Both varieties can be used in cooking, but summer savory is more commonly used in lighter dishes, such as salads and soups, while winter savory is often used in heartier, meat-based dishes.

Substitutes for Ground Savory in Recipes

If you don't have ground savory on hand, there are several other herbs and spices that you can use as a substitute, depending on the flavor profile you're looking for. Thyme, oregano, and rosemary are all good substitutes for the pungent, bitter flavor of winter savory, while marjoram and basil can be used as a substitute for the milder, sweeter flavor of summer savory.

The Culinary Uses of Ground Savory

Ground savory has a range of culinary uses, from flavoring meat dishes to adding depth to vegetarian dishes. Some popular dishes that use ground savory as a key ingredient include French cassoulet, Greek moussaka, and Italian meatballs. It can also be used to add flavor to soups, stews, and roasted vegetables.

The Historical Significance of Ground Savory

Savory has been used in cooking for centuries, dating back to ancient Rome and Greece. It was a popular spice in medieval European cuisine and was often used in meat dishes and stews. In the Middle Ages, it was believed that savory had medicinal properties and could cure a range of ailments, from indigestion to coughs and colds. It was also used as a natural insect repellent and was hung in bundles in homes and gardens to ward off pests.

Storing and Preserving Ground Savory

To keep ground savory fresh and flavorful, it's important to store it properly. It should be kept in an airtight container, away from heat and moisture, to prevent it from losing its potency. If you buy dried savory leaves, you can grind them yourself using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder. This will help preserve their flavor and ensure that you're getting fresh, high-quality ground savory.

Tips and Tricks for Cooking with Ground Savory

- Don't overuse ground savory, as its pungent flavor can quickly overpower other spices and ingredients in a dish. - When using ground savory in a recipe, taste your dish frequently to ensure that you're getting the right amount of flavor. - Experiment with different flavor combinations to find the ones that work best for your taste buds.