GOODNESS
Bay Leaf: That green headband around Ceasar's head was bay, and it has a long and glorious culinary history in Mediterranean countries.
Bay can be bitter when fresh, so let it dry for a few days if you pluck it green from the tree. After drying, it keeps nicely in an airtight jar. It gives up its flavor slowly, which is why you add it to the beginning of slow-cooked soups and stews. It has a slightly musty aroma with shades of nutmeg that can overpower a dish, so only use half a leaf for each serving. Don't forget to pull them out before serving!

Caraway: These seeds (or more properly, fruits) are reminiscent of dill or fennel but add a slight orange essence.

Sage: This delightful herb is a key player in some terrific recipes, but it is also a great purifier, fighting both bacteria and viruses. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory, and is used by many to ease the symptoms of arthritis. It also helps to lower blood pressure and control blood sugar. Like rosemary, it has been used since ancient times as a memory enhancer. Although it is just fine in foods, you should avoid excessive quantities of sage if you are pregnant.
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Recipe

Quick Choucroute Garnie

serves
prep time: 10
cook time: 18

ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 pound fully cooked smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), cut into 3 inch lengths, then halved lengthwise
  • 2 cups chopped onions
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons caraway seeds
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 pound purchased sauerkraut, drained
  • 2/3 cup dry white wine

directions

Heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage, cut side down, and cook until browned on bottom, about 3 minutes. Turn over sausage, add onions, and sauté, until onions are beginning to soften, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Stir in remaining ingredients. Cover and simmer until flavors blend, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Discard bay leaf. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve.