Dill - pot ø10.5 cm (Anethum graveolens)

Dill is believed to have originated in the Far East. It is a hardy annual plant from the umbellifer family that is related to fennel and chervil, among others. The plant can grow up to 120cm. It has a smooth stem and typical pinnate, very fine, thread-like (blue) green leaves. In summer it blooms with fine green-yellow umbel-shaped flowers. Especially in the Scandinavian countries dill is one of the most used seasonings in all kinds of dishes.

CULTIVATION TIPS:
Dill likes sun and prefers a well-drained, moist soil. Plant dill - because of its delicate appearance - best sheltered from wind. Dill is an annual plant that flowers and forms seeds easily. Stress caused by, for example, too dry soil or transplanting the plant will accelerate premature flowering and seed formation. This is detrimental because the young leaves have the most aroma and taste best before flowering. If you always want the tastiest fresh dill you are forced to plant young plants several times per season. In the spring, young plants will naturally reappear around your old plants. (Moreover, dill seeds can also be used in cooking. Be sure to harvest them before they are fully ripe because they fall out quickly. Cut the flower heads in time (when the seeds start to turn brown) and hang them upside down to dry over a cloth or paper. After a few days, the seeds will fall down on their own.

CULINARY:
Dill is best known as the seasoning of choice for our fish dishes. For best flavor, the leaves are best cut off just before use. Even washing is usually not necessary. This causes the fine leaves to stick together and damage them, which doesn't look pretty. Shredded dill goes perfectly in salads, sauces, quiches, chicken, veal,. Dill should not be boiled along, this will remove the flavor. You can dry or freeze fresh dill for later use. The seeds of dill can also be used: they have a strong taste and can be processed in bread or dark soups, but also in marinades or tea.

MEDICINAL:
Tea from dill seeds promotes sleep: it is soothing and sleep-inducing. Dill also helps with digestive problems. Chewing dill seeds is a good remedy for bad breath.