Dried Savory (Marze)

Overview:

Dried Summer Savory, known as Marzeh in Persian cuisine, is a pungent and highly aromatic herb with a flavor profile often described as a cross between thyme and mint, with a distinct peppery bite. It is a staple in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking, prized for its ability to add a spicy, herbaceous depth to dishes without the heat of actual peppers. In the culinary world, it is often referred to as the "bean herb" because of its legendary affinity for legumes.

Culinary Uses:

• Legumes & Beans: The ultimate seasoning for bean-based dishes like Adasi (lentil stew) or fava beans, as it enhances flavor while making them easier to digest.

• Meat & Poultry: A primary ingredient in marinades for lamb chops, kabobs, and roasted chicken, providing a robust, savory crust.

• Pickling & Fermentation: Widely used in traditional Persian pickling (Torshi) to provide a sharp, aromatic preservative quality.

• Kofta & Meatballs: Mixed into ground meat for Tabriz meatballs (Kofteh Tabrizi) or sausages to balance the richness of the fats.

• Herbal Cheese (Panir Sabzi): Often blended with walnuts and feta cheese or sprinkled over "Paneer-o-Sabzi" for a traditional breakfast.

Health Benefits:

• Antiseptic Properties: Contains essential oils like carvacrol and thymol, which have natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.

• Digestive Aid: Well-known for its carminative effects, helping to prevent gas, bloating, and intestinal discomfort—hence its frequent pairing with beans.

• Antioxidant Power: Rich in phenolic compounds that help protect the body from free radical damage and reduce oxidative stress.

• Sore Throat Relief: Traditionally used in herbal teas to soothe coughs and reduce inflammation in the throat and mouth.

• Mineral Rich: Provides a good source of essential minerals including calcium, iron, and manganese, which are vital for bone health and metabolism.