Dried herbs

Have some dried herbs on hand for when the supermarket seems to have every fresh herb imaginable except the one you need. Rosemary, sage, thyme, oregano, and marjoram are all herbs that can be used dry in a pinch. Make sure you buy cut or whole dried leaves and not crushed or crumbled herbs, which are harsher and less fragrant. When using dried herbs, always chop them a little to release the flavor. Bay leaves are the exception because their edges are sharp and small pieces could scratch the throat and esophagus.