What To Do With Chives? Unlock Culinary Delights and Garden Bounty
Chives offer a versatile array of uses beyond simple garnishing: They can be incorporated into savory dishes, preserved for later use, and even utilized in medicinal applications, making them an essential ingredient for any home cook or gardener.
Understanding Chives: A Garden Staple
Chives, scientifically known as Allium schoenoprasum, are perennial herbaceous plants belonging to the onion family (Alliaceae). Originating from Europe and Asia, they have become a globally popular herb, appreciated for their mild, onion-like flavor and ease of cultivation. Their characteristic hollow, tubular leaves and delicate purple flowers make them a visually appealing addition to any garden. They’re also surprisingly resilient, able to withstand a variety of climates and soil conditions.
The Nutritional and Medicinal Benefits of Chives
Beyond their culinary appeal, chives offer several nutritional benefits. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like calcium and potassium. Historically, chives have been used in traditional medicine for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies suggest that compounds found in chives may contribute to cardiovascular health and immune system support. While not a primary source of nutrition, incorporating chives into your diet can certainly contribute to overall well-being.
Culinary Uses: From Garnish to Main Ingredient
Chives are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Their mild flavor makes them an excellent addition to a wide range of dishes. Here are some popular uses:
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped chives over salads, soups, baked potatoes, and deviled eggs for a pop of color and flavor.
- Sauces and Dips: Incorporate chopped chives into creamy dips like ranch or sour cream-based sauces. Chives are also excellent in vinaigrettes.
- Egg Dishes: Add chives to omelets, frittatas, and quiches for a savory boost.
- Baked Goods: Chives can be added to savory muffins, scones, and breads for a subtle onion flavor.
- Butter and Cream Cheese: Mix chopped chives into softened butter or cream cheese for a delicious spread.
Preserving Chives: Enjoying Your Harvest Year-Round
To extend the shelf life of your chives, consider these preservation methods:
- Freezing:
- Wash and dry the chives thoroughly.
- Chop them into small pieces.
- Place the chopped chives in a freezer bag or airtight container.
- Freeze for up to 6 months.
- Drying:
- Cut the chives into small pieces.
- Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Dry in a dehydrator or a low oven (170°F/77°C) until brittle.
- Store in an airtight container. Note: dried chives will lose some flavor compared to fresh or frozen.
- Infused Vinegar:
- Pack a jar tightly with fresh chives.
- Cover with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
- Let it infuse for several weeks, then strain.
- Use the vinegar for dressings and marinades.
Growing Your Own Chives: A Simple Gardening Project
Growing chives is a rewarding and straightforward gardening project.
- Location: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
- Planting: Sow seeds directly in the garden in early spring or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. You can also purchase chive plants from a nursery.
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Harvesting: Snip the leaves near the base of the plant as needed. Regular harvesting encourages new growth.
- Dividing: Divide clumps of chives every few years to prevent overcrowding and maintain vigor.
Common Mistakes When Using Chives
While chives are relatively easy to use, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking: Chives are best added at the end of cooking to preserve their flavor and color. Overcooking can result in a bitter taste.
- Using Dull Knives: Dull knives can bruise the chives, releasing their flavor prematurely. Use a sharp knife or herb scissors for clean cuts.
- Storing Incorrectly: Fresh chives should be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in a damp paper towel, to prevent them from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I eat chive flowers?
Yes! Chive flowers are edible and have a milder, slightly sweeter flavor than the leaves. They can be used as a garnish, added to salads, or infused in vinegar. They add a beautiful pop of color to dishes.
How do I prevent my chives from flowering?
Flowering is a natural part of the chive’s life cycle. While the flowers are edible, some gardeners prefer to keep the plants focused on leaf production. To prevent flowering, regularly snip off the flower buds as they appear.
Are chives safe for dogs and cats?
No. Chives are toxic to dogs and cats due to the presence of compounds that can damage red blood cells. Keep chives out of reach of pets and contact a veterinarian if your pet ingests chives.
What’s the best way to chop chives?
The best way is to use sharp herb scissors. Gather a bunch of chives together and snip them into desired length. You can also use a very sharp knife, making sure to avoid bruising the chives.
Can I grow chives indoors?
Yes, you can. Chives grow well indoors with sufficient sunlight (at least 6 hours per day) or supplemental lighting. Plant them in a pot with well-draining soil and water regularly.
What are some good companion plants for chives?
Chives are excellent companion plants for tomatoes, carrots, and brassicas (cabbage, broccoli, kale). They help repel certain pests and improve the growth of these plants.
How long do fresh chives last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly (wrapped in a damp paper towel in the refrigerator), fresh chives can last for up to a week.
Can I substitute dried chives for fresh chives?
Yes, but be aware that dried chives have a less intense flavor than fresh chives. A general rule of thumb is to use about one-third the amount of dried chives as you would fresh chives.
What is chive oil and how do I make it?
Chive oil is an infused oil that captures the flavor and aroma of chives. To make it, gently heat olive oil with chopped chives in a saucepan over low heat for about 30 minutes. Strain the oil and store it in an airtight container.
My chives are growing too close together. What should I do?
If your chives are becoming overcrowded, it’s time to divide the plants. Dig up the clump of chives and carefully separate the roots into smaller sections. Replant the sections in separate locations.
Are there different varieties of chives?
Yes, there are several varieties of chives, including common chives, garlic chives (which have a stronger garlic flavor), and Siberian chives.
Can I regrow chives from store-bought bundles?
Yes, you can often regrow chives from store-bought bundles. Place the cut ends in a glass of water, and roots should start to form within a week or two. Once the roots are a couple of inches long, you can plant the chives in a pot or in your garden. It’s a simple way to propagate chives from existing cuttings.