Herbs vs. Spices — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on November 5, 2023
Herbs are from plant leaves; Spices come from other plant parts. Both enhance flavor and offer health benefits.
Difference Between Herbs and Spices
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Herbs and Spices both originate from plants and are primarily used to add flavor to dishes. While Herbs are derived from the leaves of plants, Spices are obtained from other parts such as seeds, roots, and bark.
Herbs typically have a milder flavor, and their freshness can be determined by their green hue. Spices, on the other hand, can be more pungent and aromatic and come in various colors, often dried.
In terms of usage, Herbs are often added at the end of the cooking process to preserve their delicate flavors. Spices are typically added at earlier stages, allowing their flavors to infuse the dish more deeply.
The storage of Herbs and Spices varies. Fresh Herbs are usually stored in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness, while Spices, particularly in their dried form, are stored in cool, dark places to preserve their potency.
Around the world, different cultures have harnessed the benefits of Herbs and Spices. Herbs often have medicinal properties and have been used in traditional medicines, while Spices not only add zest to dishes but also have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
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Comparison Chart
Origin
Derived from plant leaves.
Derived from non-leafy parts like seeds & roots.
Flavor Intensity
Generally milder.
Often more pungent and aromatic.
Usage in Cooking
Added later for freshness.
Added early for deep infusion.
Storage
Refrigerated when fresh.
Stored in cool, dark places when dried.
Colors
Typically green when fresh.
Varying colors depending on the type.
Compare with Definitions
Herbs
Green leaves of plants used for flavoring in cooking.
Fresh basil Herbs gave the pasta a delightful aroma.
Spices
Aromatic substances from plant parts used to flavor food.
The curry was rich with various Spices giving it a robust flavor.
Herbs
Culinary additions that enhance food freshness.
The soup was garnished with Herbs like parsley and cilantro.
Spices
Natural substances that also offer medicinal benefits.
Certain Spices are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Herbs
Leafy greens that can be consumed fresh or dried.
Dried Herbs can be stored for longer durations without losing flavor.
Spices
Dried seeds, bark, or roots used in cooking.
Ground cinnamon is one of the Spices loved in desserts.
Herbs
Plants with edible leaves often used in salads and garnishes.
The chef added a mix of Herbs to elevate the salad's taste.
Spices
Ingredients in cuisine that can be sweet or savory.
Some Spices, like nutmeg, are used in both main courses and desserts.
Herbs
Medicinal or aromatic plants.
Many Herbs are used in natural remedies for common ailments.
Spices
Seasoning agents enhancing dishes' depth and aroma.
Spices like turmeric and cumin have distinct colors and flavors.
Herbs
A plant whose stem does not produce woody, persistent tissue and generally dies back at the end of each growing season.
Spices
Any of various pungent, aromatic plant substances, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, used to flavor foods or beverages.
Herbs
Any of various often aromatic plants used especially in medicine or as seasoning.
Spices
These substances considered as a group.
Herbs
(Slang) Marijuana.
Spices
Something that adds zest or interest
The controversy added spice to the political campaign.
Herbs
Plural of herb
Spices
A pungent aroma.
Spices
To season with spices.
Spices
To add zest or interest to
Uses witty rhymes to spice up the song.
Spices
Plural of spice
Common Curiosities
What are Herbs?
Herbs are the leaves of plants used for flavoring in dishes.
What are Spices?
Spices are aromatic substances from non-leafy parts of plants, like seeds or roots.
Are Spices always dried?
Most often, Spices are dried for storage, but some like ginger are used fresh.
Are Herbs used in medicine?
Yes, many Herbs have been used traditionally for their medicinal properties.
Can Herbs be grown at home?
Yes, many Herbs like basil and mint can be grown in home gardens.
Can Herbs be dried?
Yes, Herbs can be consumed both fresh and dried.
How should fresh Herbs be stored?
Fresh Herbs should be refrigerated to maintain their freshness.
How should dried Spices be stored?
Dried Spices should be kept in cool, dark places to retain their potency.
Are all Spices hot in taste?
No, while some Spices like chili are hot, others like cardamom are sweet.
Which has a stronger flavor, Herbs or Spices?
Generally, Spices have a more pungent flavor compared to Herbs.
Do Spices have health benefits?
Absolutely, many Spices have antimicrobial, antioxidant, and medicinal properties.
Are Spices only used in savory dishes?
No, Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are often used in desserts.
Do Herbs originate from a specific region?
While some Herbs are native to certain regions, they are grown worldwide today.
Where are Spices primarily grown?
Spices can be grown in various climates, but many originate from tropical regions.
Can Herbs and Spices be used together in a dish?
Absolutely, many recipes combine both Herbs and Spices for a balanced flavor profile.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
