Chives by urbanhive

One of the most popular herbs is chives. One reason the herb is so popular is its taste, but in addition to taste, chives also provide many health benefits. But let's start with the taste.

What do chives taste like?

Taste is different for everyone, so there may be differences in perception. Nevertheless, we will try to provide a small taste orientation here.

As the name suggests, chives have a close connection to leeks. This is where the taste, described as leek-like to onion-like, comes from. However, the taste is perceived as milder than that of an onion. This is because chives have a lower sulfur content compared to onions. Furthermore, the taste is described as spicy, fresh, and slightly sharp. The taste depends on the thickness of the stalks and the preparation. If the chives are finely chopped, the aroma is more intense, as the essential oils spread better.

What are the health benefits of chives?

Chives are rich in vitamins, nutrients, and minerals. This means there are some interesting benefits you might not be aware of yet.

1. Vitamin K and osteoporosis

Since chives are often used as a topping or garnish, there are almost no problems with daily intake limits. Except for vitamin K, just 15g of chives are enough to cover the daily requirement. Vitamin K strengthens bones and protects against bleeding. Optimal vitamin K intake helps to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

2. Antioxidants

Antioxidants are important for the body and protect us from free radicals, because too many free radicals can contribute to diseases such as arteriosclerosis, rheumatism, and cardiovascular diseases. Chives are rich in antioxidants and can help limit free radicals.

3. Cholesterol-lowering

High cholesterol can damage blood vessels and the cardiovascular system, leading to secondary diseases. Chives can help lower cholesterol. The sulfur compounds contained in chives are responsible for this.

4. Vitamin C

It's getting colder and winter is approaching. This also means the cold season is starting again. To prevent yourself from getting sick, you need a well-functioning immune system. Vitamin C helps strengthen the immune system. Chives have about 50 mg of vitamin C per 100g and help strengthen your immune system. Now that you know the benefits of chives, you need to consume them.

What is the best type of chives?

Chives come in countless varieties. Whether fresh in a plastic container, in a pot, dried, or frozen. The best option is clearly growing your own in the homefarm or chives in a pot. There you can harvest your chives when you need them and process them directly. This is the freshest and healthiest option, as the chives still have the most nutrients. In other varieties, some vitamins and minerals may have already been lost, which can lead to a loss of positive effects. It is also very important not to heat chives, as all nutrients will be lost.

If you want fresh chives all year round, then check out our homefarm. This way you'll never have to ask yourself how to plant and care for them correctly again. By the way, it tastes significantly better from the homefarm and has more nutrients.