summer savory
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun 1. An aromatic herb: A specific herb (Satureja hortensis) known for its delicately flavored leaves which are used as a culinary seasoning. 2. The plant itself: An erect, annual herb characterized by oval leaves and small pink or white flowers, native to southeastern Europe but cultivated elsewhere.
Usage Examples
- As a seasoning:
- Referring to the plant:
Advanced Usage
- Culinary distinction: In recipes, "summer savory" is often specified to distinguish it from the more pungent, perennial "winter savory" (). It is considered essential to certain regional cuisines, like herbes de Provence or Bulgarian seasoning blends.
- Historical/Medicinal context: Historically, summer savory was used not only for flavor but also for its purported digestive properties.
Variants and Related Words
- Savory (US) / Savoury (UK) (adj): Describing a taste that is salty, spicy, or umami, not sweet. (Note: This is a distinct, unrelated meaning from the herb).
- Winter savory (n): The perennial relative () of the summer savory plant, with a stronger, more peppery flavor.
Synonyms
- Bean herb (a common name referencing its traditional use to flavor bean dishes).
- Satureja hortensis (the botanical Latin name).
Related Phrases
- "A pinch of savory": While this can refer to summer savory, in general cooking contexts it may refer to the general taste category or the specific herb available.
Noun
- herb with delicately flavored leaves with many uses
- erect annual herb with oval leaves and pink flowers; used to flavor e.g. meats or soups or salads; southeastern Europe and naturalized elsewhere