Spice It Up! by Rupa Sethu

Sage

What Is It?

Sage is a common herb, that is part of the mint family. It is full of nutrients and medicinal properties and has a strong, earthy flavor profile. Mediterranean dishes often use sage as a key herb to provide culinary depth to vegetable and meat dishes. In addition, sage burning or smudging, is an ancient spiritual ritual, to cleanse a space and promote healing and wisdom.

Where To Find It?

Sage is very common in the western world.

  • You can find it readily in the fresh produce section along with other herbs.
  • Alternatively, you can find the dried rolled leaves or powdered sage in the spice section of your favorite store.
  • If you live in a part of the world where sage is not common, try your luck online. I have found many delightful online stores that carry some of the harder to find spices.

Health Benefits

Most herbs are rich in antioxidants and provide many health benefits. Here are some excellent reasons to incorporate sage into your diet:

  • Sage is packed with nutrients, especially vitamin K.
  • It can help with brain function and lower cancer risk, due to the antioxidants.
  • With many anti-microbial properties, sage can help with your dental health, by preventing plaque.
  • Sage is thought to reduce hot flashes and irritability in menopausal women.
  • May lower LDL or the ‘bad’ cholesterol and raise HDL or the ‘good’ cholesterol.
  • Sage is also a traditional diarrhea remedy.

Read the 12 Health Benefits and Uses of Sage for further details on this lovely herb!

Culinary Uses

  • Sage is used in soups, stews, roast vegetables, and in meat dishes, both as a fresh herb and in dried form.
  • As soon as the weather starts turning cooler in the Fall, sage starts making an appearance in my kitchen – often paired with pumpkin and winter squashes like butternut and acorn squash.
  • Brown butter, lemon and fresh sage are a great topping for a quick baked fish dinner. Just go light on the sage since it can overpower the dish!
  • Many bartenders are using herbs like sage as a feature ingredient in cocktail recipes. Here’s a guide on how to use sage in your drinks!
  • The Pioneer Woman has a lovely article on How To Cook With Fresh Sage.

If you are not already familiar with sage, I encourage you to try this lovely, aromatic herb. Your taste buds and your health will both thank you!