Garlic Chives

Chives

Chives are the smallest and – in terms of flavor – finest member of the onion family, which also includes garlic, leek and shallots. It is native to Asia and Europe, having been known and used in Chinese Cuisine from over five thousand years ago.

This strongly aromatic herb imparts a fresh, zesty and yet delicate flavor to many foods. And they aren’t just renowned for their flavor and taste: the chive plant produces beautiful a globe-shaped cluster of star-like lavender flowers appreciated for their ornamental value. Unlike the kitchen variety onion, it is not the chive’s underground bulb that is of culinary value but it is their flavorful leaves that are actually harvested.

Turning to their culinary contributions, chives are an important ingredient in fines herbs, a blend of herbs used to season soups, sauces, fish, poultry and egg dishes, giving them a lively flavor, with just a hint of onion. Fresh chive leaves may be used as garnish and flavoring for salads, mashed potatoes, spreads, dips and herbal butters.

Garlic Chives

There is also another kind of chives, known the garlic chive, which is found in China and is used in stir-fried delicacies, and as its name suggests, imparts a flavor reminiscent of garlic.
Chives also contain nutrients that promote good health, such as sulphur – which has natural antibiotic properties and helps promote blood flow – calcium, phosphorus and several vitamins.

Growing Chives

Another great thing about chives is that they are easy to grow on your own; chives aren’t fussy and a little care is all they need to thrive. Plant them in your own backyard, or even grow them inside a pot in the privacy of your home, and treat yourself to this healthful and great-tasting herb!

References:

“The Herb Garden Cookbook: The Complete Gardening and Gourmet Guide” by Lucinda Hutson