Janine started planting herbs in her garden to enhance her recipes. Microgreens, in particular, caught her attention due to their simplicity and health benefits.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe scent of fresh herbs is irreplaceable in any kitchen,\u201d she says. Knowing they were organically grown added an extra layer of satisfaction.<\/p>\n
In her quest for healthy, natural flavourings free from MSG and artificial colourants, Janine began experimenting with fresh herbs. \u201cI was immediately captivated by the wonderful taste of fresh herbs in my food,\u201d she explains.<\/p>\n
The irreplaceable taste of fresh herbs makes them a kitchen staple. Unlike artificial seasonings, fresh herbs are healthier and add unique flavours to various dishes. \u201cFresh herbs are healthier than artificial soup powders and other unhealthy seasonings,\u201d Janine emphasises.<\/p>\n
According to Janine, herbs are easy to grow, especially in the dry, warm climate of the Free State and they also deter pests, making them beneficial for other garden plants.<\/p>\n
La Vie Herbs offers around 15 different herb seedlings, which grow easily from seeds. \u201cAny person who likes fresh herbs can easily own a small herb garden.\u201d<\/p>\n
She believes herbs are not just for salads. They enhance the flavours of all kinds of dishes, from stews and roasts to vegetables and even desserts. For instance, sage, Janine\u2019s favourite \u2013 \u201csage becomes crunchy when fried in butter, and is delicious with pork and gnocchi,\u201d she shares.<\/p>\n
La Vie Herbs\u2019 also offers workshops that focus on microgreens, sprouts, and edible flowers. Participants learn the entire process, from planting to using these nutrient-rich \u2018superfoods\u2019 in their cooking.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe microgreens and sprouts are packed with vitamins and they are also called ‘Superfood’,\u201d Janine explains. The two-hour sessions are hands-on and enjoyable, providing all the materials needed. \u201cYou don\u2019t cook with microgreens, they are usually used as a garnish,\u201d she clarifies.<\/p>\n
To prolong the freshness of herbs Janine advises that you wash them in salt water, dry them thoroughly, and store them in a container with a paper towel.<\/p>\n
When it comes to edible flowers, she says they\u2019re mainly used for garnishing and they can brighten up any dish. Winter-blooming flowers like violets are ideal, but flowers can also be dried in the summer for winter use. \u201cDuring the workshops, we show people how to dry edible flowers in a microwave,\u201d Janine explains.<\/p>\n
She further explains that micro herbs require minimal space and resources to grow, making them accessible to anyone. \u201cMicro herbs are very healthy. All the nutrients found in the large plant are already in these small leaves,\u201d she highlights.<\/p>\n
She adds that the popularity of herbs, microgreens, and edible seedlings is expected to rise significantly over the next 5-10 years.<\/p>\n
If you would like to learn from Janine\u2019s extensive experience you can attend La Vie Herbs\u2019 Microgreen workshop by visiting ww.lavieherbs.co.za or calling 082-560-5192.<\/p>\n
You can also follow them on Instagram @la_vie_herbs for ongoing inspiration and tips.<\/p>\n
Text: Justine Fortuin Photographs: Supplied<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Janine Honiball is the owner and founder of La Vie Herbs. La Vie, meaning \u201clife\u201d in French, reflects how herbs have enriched Janine\u2019s life and health. Founded in 2018, the business started by selling herbs at local markets. A significant breakthrough came in 2020 with a contract to supply Checkers, leading to substantial growth. La […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":103,"featured_media":17457,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[103],"tags":[830,3633,5159,7023,2062],"class_list":{"0":"post-17456","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-food-wine","8":"tag-food","9":"tag-get-it-bloemfontein","10":"tag-july","11":"tag-rooted-in-love","12":"tag-winter"},"yoast_head":"\n