Savory

Savory is an aromatic herb known for its spicy and slightly pungent scent, often confused with thyme due to their olfactory similarities. It owes its aromas and flavor to the carvacrol and thymol it contains. Carvacrol, a chemical molecule, appears as a thick oil, while thymol, an aromatic compound, appears as colorless crystals.  Savory, or Satureja montana L.,belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is also known by various names such as mountain savory, pèbre d'aï, donkey pepper or pepperette. Native to Mediterranean regions, the Maghreb, the Near East, Asia Minor and parts of Central Europe, this plant thrives particularly in Mediterranean climates. Savory is widely used in cooking as a condiment, often replacing pepper, and in herbal medicine for its medicinal properties.  According to Greek mythology, the name "Satureja" of savory is linked to the satyrs, who abundantly cultivated this plant with aphrodisiac properties in the meadows around their homes.  Savory is rich in minerals and vitamins, including iron, magnesium, calcium and vitamin B6, giving it health benefits. It has strong antioxidant power, slowing down the aging of the skin and contributing to the prevention of certain cancers. In addition, it is antimicrobial, helping to stop the proliferation of bacteria, parasites, viruses and fungi. Savory is also antiviral, relieves respiratory infections, prevents colds and reduces rheumatic pain. It is known for its benefits on the digestive system.  In cooking, savory is mainly used in savory preparations to enhance the taste of soups, omelettes, legumes, grilled meat, fish, poultry, goat cheese, salads and vegetable stews. It is one of the herbs of Provence, along with thyme, rosemary, oregano and marjoram. To reveal all its flavor, savory is recommended at the start of cooking in simmered and long-cooked dishes, while it should be used sparingly in salads and cold recipes.  In summary, savory is an aromatic herb appreciated for its spicy aroma and its health benefits, finding its place in many culinary preparations.