Dill: Culinary Uses, Storage and Health Benefits
Dill adds a distinct flair to dishes with its refreshing aroma and unique flavour which is best described as crisp and citrusy, with a hint of sweet liquorice.
Dill is a delicate herb and loses flavour very easily, especially when exposed to heat so add the herb to your dish right before you take it off the stove or add just before serving.
Cooking
Seafood Sensation: Dill shines as a key ingredient in many seafood dishes. Its bright, citrusy notes pair perfectly with the delicate flavours of fish and shellfish, enhancing everything from grilled salmon to prawn cocktails. Sprinkled on smoked salmon or mixed into creamy seafood pasta, dill adds a refreshing zing that tantalizes the taste buds.
Salad Star: Dill's feathery fronds bring a burst of freshness to salads. Mixed into green salads or combined with cucumber in a classic tzatziki, dill adds a crisp, herbaceous flavour. Its versatility extends to potato salads and coleslaws, where its bright taste adds depth and complexity to otherwise simple dishes.
Sauce and Dip Delight: In sauces and dips, dill takes centre stage, from creamy dill sauce drizzled over grilled meats to tangy dill-infused yogurt dip.
Storage
Dill is a delicate herb; it wilts and becomes limp very quickly. It is best used within a week of buying it.
Preserve its freshness by taking it out of its original packaging and rewrapping smaller bunches in damp paper towel. Place the dill in a plastic bag, leaving it open, and re-dampen the paper towel as needed.
Another storage method is to stand up in a glass of water. This will last in the fridge for a week or a day on the counter. Change the water every few days if storing for longer than a day.
Health Benefits
Digestive Aid: Traditionally, dill has been used as a digestive aid, thanks to its carminative properties that help alleviate bloating, gas, and indigestion. Whether consumed fresh or as a tea, dill stimulates digestion and soothes the gastrointestinal tract, offering relief from discomfort after meals.
Nutrient-Rich: Particularly high in vitamin C, dill helps boost the immune system and promote collagen production for healthy skin. Additionally, dill contains calcium, iron, and magnesium, essential minerals that contribute to bone health and muscle function.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Dill contains flavonoids and other bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Regular consumption of dill may help lower the risk of chronic diseases associated with inflammation, such as heart disease, arthritis, and certain types of cancer.
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