It’s winter in Chicago. In other words, it’s comfort food season. However, that doesn’t mean flavor goes into hiding. Fresh herbs bring brightness, balance, and depth to hearty winter dishes, and in our kitchen, they’re a cold-weather essential. Here are our five favorite ways to use fresh herbs during the winter months, proving that a little green goes a long way, even when it’s snowing outside. 

Roasts

Warm winter dishes like slow-roasted meats take on a deeper flavor with a few simple herbs. Add rosemary, thyme, or sage to complement rich meats such as beef, pork, and lamb without overpowering them. Herbs like parsley, chives, and dill add a pop of brightness that cuts through heavier flavors. Oregano also adds flavor depth. Built for high heat, these herbs release their flavor steadily throughout prolonged cooking, giving you the perfect cozy winter roast with well-balanced flavors. Simply mix these fresh herbs with olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful rub, or tie fresh herb sprigs into bundles for easy removal and gentle infusion. You can also stuff herbs and garlic into poultry or nestle them around a roast to add aromatic depth as it cooks.

Soups and Stews

Herbs bring quiet depth and balance to winter soups. Add hardy herbs like rosemary and thyme at the beginning for a gradual, deep flavor infusion. Try the Bouquet Garni method, which consists of tying woody herb sprigs in cheesecloth or butcher’s twine and removing before serving, to achieve rich flavor infusion with easy removal. Stir in delicate herbs (basil, cilantro, parsley) just before serving to freshen up the soup or stew. 

Infuse Oils, Butters, or Vinegars

Herb-infused olive oils, vinegars and compound butters are a chef’s winter secret weapon, adding depth and aroma without overpowering a dish. By gently warming herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage in oil or vinegar, or folding finely chopped herbs into softened butter, you capture their essential flavors in a form that’s easy to use all season long. These infusions are ideal for finishing roasted vegetables, basting grilled or pan-seared proteins, or melting over warm bread straight from the oven, delivering a final layer of richness and freshness that elevates even the simplest winter meals.

Baked Goods

Fresh herbs shine when paired with classic winter ingredients. Rosemary works beautifully with citrus and shortbread, thyme complements lemon and honey, and sage pairs well with brown butter, apples, or squash-based bakes. These combinations feel comforting yet refined. Winter breads, biscuits, and scones also benefit from herbs like rosemary, thyme, and chives. They go well with cheese, olive oil, or sea salt, making them perfect for savory bakes. A light herb garnish or glaze can also boost baked goods. Brush loaves with herb-infused syrup, sprinkle sugar mixed with finely chopped herbs, or finish with infused honey for a polished, seasonal touch.

Drinks

Fresh herbs can be an amazing way to elevate winter drinks such as cocktails and tea. Herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage add a subtle earthiness and fragrant lift that pairs great with citrus, bourbon, gin, and botanical spirits, preventing cocktails from feeling heavy. You can gently muddle herbs like basil and mint in drinks like mojitos or sours for immediate flavor, or steep them in syrups for infusions. For comforting herbal teas, steep leaves or simmer roots in hot water, strain, and enjoy a tea of complex flavor and health benefits.

Fresh herbs remind us that food can feel vibrant, intentional, and alive year round. Visit us at the Albert this winter and experience thoughtful and unique flavors like you’ve never tasted before.