Dried crushed sage is made from the dried leaves of the sage plant. Its aroma is pungent, earthy, and slightly musty. It has a strong, savory, slightly bitter flavor that is often described as somewhat peppery with a hint of mint. The taste can change slightly when heated, as the oils in the sage can become more concentrated, resulting in a stronger flavor.
Sage is commonly used in Mediterranean and European cuisine. Some popular dishes that feature dried crushed sage include stuffing, sausage, and roasted meats. It is also commonly used to season sauces, soups, and stews.
In cooking, dried crushed sage is typically added near the end of the cooking process, as heat can cause the flavors to deteriorate. It is often used sparingly, as too much can overpower a dish. The spice does not require any preparation before use and can be added directly to a recipe.
It's worth noting that dried crushed sage has a more potent flavor compared to fresh sage leaves, so less is often required when using the dried version.
TASTING NOTES
Savory, slightly bitter. Peppery with a hint of mint.
AROMA
Pungent, earthy, and slightly musty aroma.
PAIRINGS
Garlic, onion, rosemary, thyme, and lemon
USAGE
Try adding a pinch of sage to roasted vegetables or a homemade stuffing.
PROCESSING / FORM
crushed
BOTANICAL NAME
Salvia officinalis
To get the best flavor from crushed sage, it's best to add it towards the end of the cooking process. If you add it too early, the heat can cause the flavor to deteriorate.
Sage has a long history of use in folklore and magic. In the Middle Ages, sage was considered a sacred herb and was thought to have mystical powers. It was believed to have the ability to ward off evil spirits, protect from harm, and bring wisdom. It was also commonly used in love spells and was thought to attract love and improve relationships.
In some cultures, sage was also used to predict the future. For example, in ancient Greece, young girls would chew on sage leaves and then go to sleep in the hopes of receiving a dream that would foretell their future.
Today, sage is still used in some spiritual practices, and many people believe that burning sage, also known as "smudging," can cleanse a space of negative energy and promote peace and harmony.