Fresh herbs are a staple in many dishes, from salads and dressings to pesto and garnishes. Their flavors are often superior to dried herbs, but the downside is that fresh herbs require more preparation. You have to wash them, strip the leaves from the stems, and chop them before use. On the other hand, dried herbs are ready to go, making them a more convenient option. However, if you’re someone who prefers using fresh herbs in your cooking, there’s a kitchen gadget that can save you time: the herb stripper.

Herb strippers are designed to help you quickly and efficiently remove leaves from herb stems. They typically feature various sized holes that accommodate different types of herbs. To use it, simply insert the stem into the smallest hole that fits, and pull it through. This action strips all the leaves from the stem in one quick motion. Some models even have larger holes to remove leaves from heartier greens like kale. Additionally, certain herb strippers come with built-in blades for chopping the herbs, and some include bowls to collect the leaves as they’re removed.

This simple yet ingenious tool can completely change how you handle fresh herbs in the kitchen. It not only makes the process faster but may also encourage you to use fresh herbs more frequently. You might even find yourself experimenting with new herbs, discovering flavors and combinations you hadn’t tried before. For the best results, though, it’s important to keep your herbs fresh. Here’s a helpful tip: after washing and drying your fresh herbs, wrap them in paper towels and store them in sealable plastic bags. This method helps preserve their freshness for a few extra days, although it’s always best to use them quickly for maximum flavor.

Let’s take a look at some popular herbs and how this handy tool can help you make the most of them. Basil, for example, is one of the most beloved herbs thanks to its sweet and slightly peppery flavor. It’s commonly used in Mediterranean cooking, especially in pesto, but it works well in a wide variety of dishes. To get the best flavor from basil, add the leaves toward the end of cooking to prevent the heat from diminishing its taste. It pairs beautifully with dishes like fish, chicken, or a homemade pasta sauce.

Rosemary, while more difficult to work with due to its woody stems, offers a strong pine-like flavor that works wonderfully with lamb, poultry, and roasted vegetables. It’s also great for adding flavor to flatbreads or even sweet dishes like cakes. The herb stripper is particularly useful for rosemary, as it easily separates the tough stems from the fragrant leaves.

Cilantro, or coriander leaf, is another herb that can benefit from the use of a herb stripper. Cilantro’s citrusy, fresh flavor makes it a popular choice in both Latin American and Asian cuisines. Whether used raw in salads or cooked in soups, it adds a bright, tangy note to dishes.

Then there’s dill, an herb with a mild but distinct flavor commonly used in German and Scandinavian dishes. It pairs well with seafood, yogurt, and salads, and is a key ingredient in many pickling recipes.

Marjoram, often overshadowed by oregano, has a milder, sweeter flavor that pairs well with vegetables, meats, and salads. It’s an excellent herb for soups and sauces, and both the leaves and stems can be used in cooking.

Thyme is another popular herb often found in French cuisine. Its earthy, slightly minty flavor works well in roasted meats, breads, and even cocktails. A herb stripper can make it much easier to prepare thyme, which tends to have small, stubborn leaves.

Lastly, mint and parsley are versatile herbs that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Mint isn’t just for desserts and drinks; it adds a refreshing flavor to salads, sandwiches, and curries. Parsley, on the other hand, has a more subtle taste and is often used as a garnish to brighten up soups, pasta, or lemon-based dishes.

With the right tool, you can easily incorporate more fresh herbs into your cooking, adding vibrant, fresh flavors to your meals without the hassle of tedious prep work.