Yes, rosemary is considered a spice.
Rosemary: Spice, Herb, and More
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a fragrant evergreen herb with needle-like leaves. Its culinary uses solidify its classification as a spice. It's commonly used to add flavor to a wide range of dishes, particularly those of Mediterranean origin.
Culinary Uses of Rosemary
- Mediterranean Cuisine: Rosemary is a staple in many Mediterranean recipes, enhancing the taste of roasted meats, lamb, poultry, and vegetables.
- Flavor Profile: It offers a distinctive, slightly piney, and slightly bitter flavor profile that complements many savory dishes.
- Versatile Ingredient: Rosemary can be used fresh or dried, adding complexity to soups, stews, sauces, and marinades.
Beyond the Kitchen
While primarily known as a culinary spice, rosemary also finds applications in other areas:
- Fragrance: Its potent aroma makes it a popular ingredient in soaps, perfumes, and other cosmetic products.
- Traditional Medicine: Historically, rosemary has been used for its purported medicinal properties, though scientific evidence supporting these claims requires further research. (Reference: Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is widely used as a spice when cooking, especially in Mediterranean dishes. It is also used for fragrance in soaps and cosmetics. Traditionally, rosemary has been used medicinally to: Improve memory.)
In summary, rosemary's primary use as a flavoring agent in cooking firmly establishes it as a spice. Its other applications do not negate this primary function.
