The scientific name is Rosmarinus offinialis and it is from the Labiatae or Lamiaceae (mint family). Rosemary’s taste is a bit cooling, woody, minty, peppery and somewhat balsamic. Rosemary’s aroma is strong while also being a bit warm and piney with hints of tea.

Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean region where it was grown around monasteries. Today it is still very popular in French and Italian cuisine. It is also now grown in Algeria, England, France, Germany, Italy, Morocco, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Turkey and in the US. Our Ground Rosemary is grown in Morocco.

Rosemary is quite popular in Mediterranean cuisine, where it compliments a variety of dishes. In France it’s used in flavoring slow cooked lamb and vegetable dishes. Rosemary is a staple ingredient in the French blends bouquet garni and Herbs de Provence. In Italian cuisine it’s frequently combined with chiles, honey, garlic or wine and used to grill or roast fish, goat, lamb, rabbit and veal dishes. In other parts of Europe rosemary is used in fruit based desserts, marinades, potatoes, pot roasts, roasted chicken, lamb or veal, soup stocks, stews, stuffings and vinegars.

In this country rosemary is used to flavor baked fish, chicken, cream cheese, eggs, fish, marinades, mushrooms, onions, oranges, potatoes, tomatoes and winter squash. Rosemary is also the perfect compliment in soups, stews and sauces, with apples and other fruits. Its balsamic undertone is relished in breads, herb vinegars and salad dressings.

Helpful hint: Unlike many seasonings, rosemary doesn't lose any of its potent flavor or aroma during cooking.

Our Ground Rosemary is perfect to use in blends or when you want a more even flavor distribution. Rosemary needles (even those that are cut quite small) can create flavor explosions.

Rosemary pairs well with bay leaves, chives, garlic, oregano, parsley, sage and thyme.

Rosemary is especially good when used with apricots, cabbage, chicken, eggplant, eggs, fish, lamb, onions, oranges, tomatoes, veal and winter squashes.

In addition to Ground Rosemary we carry a Moroccan grown Rosemary that is cut and sifted (finely cut needles).

Some of our favorite recipes using Rosemary are Provencal Chicken, Chicken Chili Verde, Stuffed Bell Peppers and Maple Spiced Nuts.