Bouquet garni

Bouquet garni is an aromatic blend of fresh or dried herbs commonly used in cooking to flavor broths, soups, stews, and braises. Traditionally, the bouquet garni is made up of sprigs of parsley, thyme, and a bay leaf, although some recipes may include other herbs such as celery or cilantro depending on the desired flavor profile. Its origin lies in French cuisine, where it is a staple for adding depth and aroma without having the herbs scattered in the dish, as it is usually tied into a small bundle or wrapped in cheesecloth to make it easy to remove once cooking is finished. Regarding its properties, the bouquet garni helps enhance natural flavors, in addition to providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds present in the herbs that compose it, making it a healthy and natural ingredient to elevate recipes. In different regions of Latin America, the bouquet garni may go by various names, among which are: bouquet of herbs, bundle of aromatic herbs, or simply herb packet. However, its use and concept are very similar, being a popular resource for infusing broths and stews. In summary, the bouquet garni is an essential ingredient for those looking to add a balanced and fresh flavor to their traditional or homemade culinary preparations.