Winter savory is a type of herb with a strong, slightly peppery taste. The spelling of its name is related to its pronunciation, which is /ˈwɪntər ˈseɪvəri/. The first part of the word, "winter," is pronounced as two syllables: /ˈwɪntər/. The second part of the word, "savory," is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable: / ˈseɪvəri/. The "-ory" ending is a common suffix for names of herbs, such as rosemary and thyme. Winter savory is commonly used to flavor meat dishes, soups, and stews.
Winter savory, scientifically known as Satureja montana, is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to the Mediterranean region and is highly valued for its culinary and medicinal uses.
Winter savory is a small shrub that typically grows up to 12 inches in height. It features narrow, dark green leaves that have a slightly bitter and peppery taste, making it a popular herb in cooking. The leaves are recognized for their strong aroma, reminiscent of a blend of sage and thyme.
In the kitchen, winter savory leaves are used to enhance the flavors of various dishes, such as soups, stews, bean dishes, and roasted meats. Due to its pungent taste, it is often added sparingly to avoid overwhelming other flavors.
Apart from its culinary uses, winter savory also offers several medicinal properties. It has been traditionally used as a digestion aid, as it stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, helping to relieve indigestion and flatulence. It is also believed to have antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it beneficial for oral health. Some studies have suggested that winter savory may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects as well.
Overall, winter savory is a versatile and aromatic herb, widely appreciated for its culinary and medicinal attributes. Its distinctive taste and potential health benefits make it a valuable addition to any kitchen herb collection.
The word "winter savory" has a straightforward etymology.
The term "winter" comes from the Old English word "winter" which means the coldest season of the year. This ultimately traces back to the Proto-Germanic word "wintruz" and is related to the Old High German word "wintar" and the Old Norse word "vetr".
The word "savory" has its origins in the Old English word "sæþerie", which was derived from the Latin word "satureia". This Latin word referred to a type of herb. Over time, "sæþerie" transformed into "savory" in Middle English and has maintained its usage to describe a particular herb, including winter savory, which is a perennial herb found in the Mediterranean region.