Dill
It’s kind of a big Dill
For some, dill is just the word that comes before pickle. Ideally, it is an herb you know well, can use readily, and serves as one of the many culinary weapons to add flavor to your life and wellness to your body.
What is Dill?
Dill (Anethum graveolens) is an herbaceous plant from the family Apiaceae. Its seeds and leaves are used as a seasoning as well as for medicinal purposes, but “dill” generally refers to the leaf and is distinguished from dill seed, which has a flavor profile that is more potent and concentrated.
The word dill has roots in the Norse word dylla, meaning to lull or soothe, referring to the ability of this herb to pacify strong flavors, mellow acids, and round out complex dishes. It may also partially explain the dullness implicit in Beavis and Butthead’s prolific use of dillweed as a euphemism for stupidity.
Like all herbs, dill’s flavor and potency diminish with age. So, to optimize your enjoyment and health benefits, local access to fresh organic dill is essential. We grow and harvest dill at our organic farm in Arlington, VA to deliver it fresh to members of our community.
How to Prepare Dill
Long prized across the globe as a culinary spice, dill is a great unifier because it's so versatile. It’s just as well suited to add a bit of flair to a loaf of bread as to increase the savory appeal of a delicately braised fish filet. Whether you’re a carnivore or strictly plant-based, dill can add something special to the mix. With its potent, yet somehow subtle flavor, it lends itself well to dressings, meat and vegetable dishes, and soups. Here are some ways to prepare dill:
Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a fragrant twist to classic comfort food with fresh dill. Make this Dillicious Chicken Noodle Soup.
Season Popcorn: Toss freshly popped popcorn with melted butter and chopped dill for a savory, herbaceous snack that’s irresistible. Use this Fresh Dill Popcorn recipe.
Dill-Infused Oil: Gently heat olive oil, add sprigs of fresh dill, then strain for a fragrant herb oil perfect for drizzling over roasted vegetables, fish, or salads.
Herbed Yogurt Dip: Finely chop fresh dill and mix it with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt for a creamy dip that's excellent with crudités or pita.
Dill Butter Spread: Blend softened butter with minced dill, a touch of lemon zest, and sea salt. Spread it over warm bread or melt it on top of grilled seafood or baked potatoes for a burst of fresh, herbal flavor.
Dill Health Benefits
Dill has long been a cherished ingredient in traditional medicine and receives endorsements from contemporary western medical practices.
Dill is packed with flavonoids, which have been shown to help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. But that’s not the only reason dill is thought to improve heart health. Research shows that dill can also reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
Additionally, it is a good source of vitamins A and C, magnesium, calcium, and iron.
Some studies suggest that dill is beneficial for reducing inflammation, countering stomach upset, preventing ulcers, reducing free radicals, and providing pain relief.
Dill Facts
Ancient Herb: Dill has been used for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Egypt and Greece, where it was prized for its culinary and medicinal properties. It was even believed to bring good fortune and ward off evil spirits.
Edible from Tip to Root: Every part of the dill plant is edible, from the feathery leaves to the seeds and even the stems, making it a versatile ingredient in both cooking and seasoning.
Butterfly Magnet: Dill is a favorite host plant for swallowtail butterflies, making it a beautiful addition to gardens while supporting pollinators.
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Area 2 Farms for Locals
Your food should be equally accessible and nutritious. Which is where we come in. We’re Area 2 Farms, we grow fresh, organic produce, deliver it to your door weekly, and operate all within 10 miles of you.
