Chives – And What to do With Them

Chives are a gorgeous herb that are so versatile. They are a perennial plant that, for those lucky enough, will come back year after year.

This is hit or miss for me, but when it does happen I am in chive heaven.

If you do not grow your own, look at local farmer’s markets, or you may even see them in your next CSA delivery!

What is Edible on a Chive Plant?

Simply put: all of it.

The chive stems (scapes) are hollow tubes that can grow 30–50 cm (12–20 in) tall.There lies most of the flavour. Slice, grind, or dry them.

The flower blossoms are also edible. These beauties can be eaten whole in salads, used as edible garnish, or used in vinegars. Making your own Chive Blossom Vinegar is an excellent option.

Chives have a lovely onion-y flavour and are a fabulous addition to any dish. If you are lucky enough to have an abundance of chives, here are just a few things you can do with them:

• Cut them up and add them to salads
• Make a chive pesto, just as you would with basil
• Potatoes love chives! Top mashed, roasted, or baked potatoes with these beauties
• Dehydrate them so they will always be available to sprinkle on any dish
• Make chive vinegar – simply cut up chives and add to vinegar. Allow the vinegar to be infused with the chives.

Chives add another layer of fresh flavour to so many things. Give it a try. You will be glad you did.

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