Herbs de Provence is a flavorful blend of dried herbs that originates from the Provence region of southeast France. It’s wildly popular for its ability to add aromatic, herbal flavor to a variety of dishes without overpowering them. If you have a jar of this fragrant herb blend in your pantry, keep reading to learn how to make the most of it.
What is in the herbs de Provence blend?
While recipes can vary, classic herbs de Provence contains some combination of the following herbs:
- Savory
- Thyme
- Rosemary
- Oregano
- Basil
- Lavender
- Marjoram
- Fennel seed
- Sage
- Dill
The blend brings together herbal flavors like earthy, peppery, floral and lemon-like. When used together, they create a harmonious seasoning that tastes vibrant yet balanced.
What dishes pair well with herbs de Provence?
This versatile herb blend can be used to add flavor to all kinds of savory dishes, including:
- Meat: Lamb, pork, chicken, beef
- Seafood: Fish, shrimp, mussels
- Vegetables: Mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant
- Legumes: Beans, lentils
- Grains: Rice, couscous, quinoa
- Eggs
- Cheese
Herbs de Provence is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine, but it can work well in many other styles too. Anywhere you want aromatic herbal flavor, consider reaching for this blend.
How to use herbs de Provence
Here are some easy ways to use dried herbs de Provence at home:
- Season meat before cooking: Rub it onto chicken, lamb, beef or pork before roasting, grilling, sautéing, etc.
- Marinate proteins: Add it to oil and vinegar-based marinades for meat, seafood or tofu.
- Make a compound butter: Blend into soft butter along with lemon zest and mix under chicken skin or dollop over vegetables.
- Toss with vegetables: Sprinkle over potatoes, cauliflower, green beans, mushrooms or asparagus before roasting.
- Season egg dishes: Fold into scrambled eggs, omelets, frittatas or baked eggs.
- Mix into grains: Toss with rice, couscous or quinoa once cooked.
- Make herb oil: Infuse into olive oil by gently heating them together, then drizzle over pizza, pasta, bread, etc.
- Rub onto bread: Before baking or toasting bread, rub herbs de Provence into the dough or directly onto slices.
- Sprinkle in soups & stews: Add during the cooking process for flavor.
- Use in marinades & dressings: Whisk into vinaigrettes, herb sauces and marinades.
- Season dips: Fold into hummus, baba ghanoush, spinach dip and more.
Herbs de Provence Substitutes
If you don’t have herbs de Provence, here are some potential substitutions:
| Substitute | Ratio |
|---|---|
| Italian seasoning | 1:1 |
| Oregano, marjoram, thyme, basil | 2:1:1:1 |
| Thyme, rosemary, lavender | 2:2:1 |
While the flavor won’t be exactly the same, these herb combinations can work nicely in place of herbs de Provence in a pinch.
Popular herbs de Provence recipes
Looking for inspiration on how to use this blend? Here are some classic recipes that showcase herbs de Provence beautifully:
Herb Roasted Chicken
Chicken parts or a whole chicken roasted with olive oil, garlic, lemon and a generous dose of herbs de Provence. The chicken takes on so much flavor and aroma.
Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin coated with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs de Provence, lemon zest, olive oil and Dijon mustard then roasted until browned and tender.
Herb Rubbed Salmon
Salmon fillets brushed with olive oil, seasoned with salt, pepper and herbs de Provence then grilled or broiled until flaky.
Mussels with Tomatoes, White Wine & Herbs
Mussels steamed open in a broth of tomatoes, onion, garlic, white wine and herbs de Provence. Serve with crusty bread.
Herb Roast Potatoes
Potatoes tossed in olive oil, herbs de Provence and garlic then roasted in the oven until crispy, caramelized and flavorful.
Herb & Lemon Orzo
Orzo pasta cooked until al dente then tossed with olive oil, lemon juice, zest, parsley and herbs de Provence.
Herb Omelet
Fluffy omelet filled with herbs de Provence, goat cheese and caramelized onions for a savory breakfast or light dinner.
Herb & Honey Roasted Carrots
Carrots roasted with honey, olive oil and herbs de Provence for a sweet and aromatic side dish.
Bean & Veggie Stew
Hearty vegetable stew with white beans, tomatoes, zucchini and herbs de Provence served with crusty bread.
Provencal Potato Salad
French-style potato salad made with red potatoes, Dijon vinaigrette, fresh herbs, cornichons, capers and a sprinkle of herbs de Provence.
Tips for cooking with herbs de Provence
To get the most flavor and aroma from your herbs de Provence, follow these tips:
- Add early: For long cooking recipes, add herbs de Provence early so the flavor has time to develop fully.
- Use your hands: Rubbing the herb blend onto meat or fish helps release the oils.
- Drizzle oil after: If baking or roasting, coat or rub on herbs de Provence first, then drizzle on oil to seal in the flavor.
- Store properly: Keep herbs de Provence in an airtight container away from light to retain flavor and aroma.
- Toast first: Quickly toasting the blend in a dry pan intensifies the flavor before using.
- Use generously: Don’t be shy with herbs de Provence, the flavors mellow when cooked.
- Pair with lemon: Lemon zest and juice complement herbs de Provence perfectly.
Where to buy herbs de Provence
Look for herbs de Provence in the spice aisle at well-stocked grocery stores or specialty markets. It can also be found at online spice retailers like:
- Penzeys Spices
- The Spice House
- Spices Inc.
- Savory Spice Shop
- Mountain Rose Herbs
Buy it ground or in whole leaves depending on your preference. Ground will provide the most convenience and flavor punch.
Conclusion
Herbs de Provence is the perfect way to infuse any dish with the flavors and scents of the Mediterranean. It’s extremely versatile, pairing well with vegetables, meats, seafood, eggs, grains and more. Use it generously on your favorite proteins before cooking or sprinkle it over dishes right before serving. Store leftovers properly in an airtight container away from light. With this fragrant blend on hand, it’s easy to add big Provence flavor to any meal!