Chives

 Chives

/CHīvz/

Chives, also known as garlic chives in Asia, are herbs that resemble green stalk plants. They are flowering plants with a beautiful pink-purple flower. 

Chives are related to scallions and green onions. Although they are all part of the onion and garlic family, the thin green stalk is the herb and can be used in dry or fresh form. 

Here’s some differences between chives, scallions, and green onions. 

Origin:

Chives are native to Central Asia and parts of Europe and the Americas. They are now cultivated widely around the world and used in a variety of culinary delights.

Recipes:

Chives have a subtle onion flavor while garlic chives tend to have a stronger garlic taste. They make a great addition to just about any dish and may also be used as a garnish adding a pop of green. 

Chives are used extensively in Asian cuisines and add a wonderful subtle onion-garlic flavor.  I absolutely love using them when preparing Asian dishes such as noodles and dumplings. 

In Japanese food, they are often added in miso soup and salads. Also popular in Korean food, chives are cooked in pan-fried pancakes and pickled kimchi. 

Chives pair well with potatoes to make delicious creamy chive potatoes. Many sprinkle chives on a baked potato, soup, salad, and even an omelet for a light of onion flavor while adding a dash of green. 

Herbs like chives can also be added to spreads like in this Chive butter spread to enjoy with some toast and eggs for a delicious breakfast.

Cures:

Chives have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries in Asian medicines.

WebMD cites chives to be a good source of Vitamin k which has been helpful in treating osteoporosis and strengthening bones. Often take in small doses only, chives may also be helpful in improving memory, high blood pressure, colds and flu. 

Household:

The chive plant, allium tuberosum, tends to grow easily and can be found in many gardens for its beautiful green stalks and flowers. They keep away the garden bugs while the sweet scented flowers invite bees and butterflies to pollinate.

A great addition to any garden.

Whether you choose to choose to cook with chives or simply grow them in your garden, the beautiful green color of freshness won't disappoint!

Disclaimer: This information has not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sources

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allium_tuberosum

http://theepicentre.com/spice/chives/

https://www.thespruceeats.com/chinese-recipes-using-garlic-chives-695295

https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-chives#1

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-403/chive#:~:text=Chive%20is%20an%20herb.,is%20used%20commonly%20for%20flavoring.

https://www.herbco.com/t-chives.aspx#:~:text=Profile%3A%20Chives&text=Range%3A%20Native%20to%20Asia%2C%20Europe,related%20to%20garlic%20and%20onion.

https://mastergardener.extension.wisc.edu/article/garlic-chives-allium-tuberosum/