HOMEMADE TUSCAN HERB SEASONING – VERSATILE SPICE BLEND
A robust and aromatic herb blend inspired by Tuscan flavors, perfect for seasoning chicken, pork (especially ribs), lamb, potatoes, beans, and more. Fresh herbs combined with lemon zest, garlic, and black pepper create a fragrant, savory mix.
⏲️ Prep Time: 15 min + 2 days drying
🍽️ Yields: About 60 g dried seasoning
🥣 Ingredients
- 30 g fresh sage leaves
- 30 g fresh rosemary leaves
- 1 head garlic (whole cloves peeled)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 heaping tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon salt
👩🍳 Instructions
- Strip sage and rosemary leaves from stems.
- In a mortar, crush lemon zest, garlic cloves, and black peppercorns into a paste.
- Add the herb leaves and salt to the paste. Using a sharp knife, finely chop everything together until very minced.
- Spread the herb mixture thinly on parchment paper.
- Allow to dry in a sunny spot for 2 days, turning occasionally.
- If not fully dried after 2 days, dry further in a low oven (preheated and turned off) for a few hours.
- Once dry, grind the herbs into a powder using a coffee grinder or spice mill.
- Store in an airtight jar for long-term use.
💡 Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality herbs for best flavor.
- Drying slowly preserves aroma better than high heat.
- This blend is excellent as a dry rub or mixed with oil for marinades.
- Label your jar with preparation date for freshness.
🎉 Perfect For
- Roasting and grilling meats and vegetables
- Adding bright herbal notes to stews and beans
- Seasoning potatoes and legumes
- Mediterranean and rustic cooking
📝 Final Thoughts
This Tuscan-inspired herb seasoning brings fragrant, savory depth to many dishes. Its blend of garlic, lemon, pepper, and fresh herbs creates a versatile and delicious all-purpose seasoning that elevates everyday meals.