McCormick Gourmet Organic Crushed Rosemary brings the essence of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. This culinary herb boasts a distinctive piney fragrance and lemony flavor that elevates a wide range of dishes. Sourced from the harsh, mountainous locales of the Mediterranean basin, this organic crushed rosemary offers deep green color and potent volatile oils.
As a versatile ingredient, McCormick’s organic rosemary shines in both savory and sweet applications. It pairs exceptionally well with lamb, enhances roasted vegetables and potatoes, and adds depth to stews and soups. The herb also plays a crucial role in Herbes de Provence, a classic French blend used to flavor various meat dishes and Mediterranean-inspired recipes.
For those seeking to add an authentic touch to their cooking, McCormick Gourmet Organic Crushed Rosemary provides a convenient and high-quality option. Its organic certification and non-GMO status appeal to health-conscious consumers who want to incorporate natural, flavorful ingredients into their meals. The crushed form allows for easy measurement and even distribution throughout recipes.
Origin and Culinary History
Rosemary has ancient roots in Mediterranean cuisine and culture. McCormick Gourmet brings this flavorful herb to modern kitchens with their high-quality organic crushed rosemary product.
Rosemary: The Herb of Remembrance
Rosemary originated in the Mediterranean region, thriving in its sunny, rocky terrain. Ancient Greeks and Romans revered the herb for its aromatic properties and symbolic meaning.
In cuisine, rosemary became a staple in Mediterranean cooking. Its piney fragrance and robust flavor complemented roasted meats, vegetables, and breads.
Rosemary spread throughout Europe during the Middle Ages. Monks cultivated it in monastery gardens for culinary and medicinal use.
The herb earned the nickname “herb of remembrance” due to its reputation for improving memory. This association persists in modern traditions like wearing rosemary sprigs at funerals.
McCormick Gourmet: A Tradition of Quality
McCormick & Company began in 1889 as a door-to-door spice business. The company grew to become a global leader in flavors and spices.
In 1990, McCormick launched its Gourmet Collection to offer premium herbs and spices. This line caters to home cooks seeking restaurant-quality ingredients.
McCormick Gourmet sources its organic crushed rosemary from trusted growers. The company prioritizes sustainable farming practices and quality control.
The crushed form of rosemary provides convenience without sacrificing flavor. It allows for easy incorporation into various dishes while maintaining the herb’s essential oils and taste.
McCormick’s commitment to quality ensures their rosemary delivers consistent Mediterranean flavor to home kitchens worldwide.
Product Overview
McCormick Gourmet Organic Crushed Rosemary offers a convenient and flavorful herb option for cooking. This product combines the aromatic qualities of rosemary with organic certification and easy-to-use crushed form.
What Is Crushed Rosemary?
Crushed rosemary consists of dried rosemary leaves that have been ground into smaller pieces. This herb has a distinctive piney fragrance and a lemony, piney flavor. It originates from the Mediterranean basin, where harsh mountainous environments produce rosemary with deep green color and potent volatile oils.
Crushed rosemary adds Mediterranean flair to various dishes. It pairs well with grilled or roasted meats, tomato sauces, roasted vegetables, and potatoes. The herb is also a key ingredient in Herbes de Provence, a blend used in stews, soups, and meat dishes.
Rosemary’s versatility extends to desserts as well. It can enhance pound cakes, shortbread, and focaccia with its unique flavor profile.
Organic Certification and Benefits
McCormick Gourmet Organic Crushed Rosemary is certified organic and non-GMO. This certification ensures the herb is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, adhering to strict organic farming practices.
Organic certification offers several benefits:
- Reduced exposure to synthetic chemicals
- Environmental sustainability
- Potential for higher nutrient content
While specific nutritional information for crushed rosemary is limited, the herb generally contains antioxidants and essential oils. These compounds may contribute to its aromatic properties and potential health benefits.
The organic certification also appeals to consumers seeking natural, minimally processed ingredients for their cooking and baking needs.
Culinary Uses
McCormick Gourmet Organic Crushed Rosemary offers versatile culinary applications, enhancing a wide range of dishes with its distinctive piney aroma and flavor. This herb shines in both savory and sweet recipes, elevating everything from roasted meats to unexpected desserts.
Enhancing Meats With Piney Fragrance
Rosemary’s robust flavor profile makes it an ideal companion for various meats. It pairs exceptionally well with lamb, chicken, beef, and pork. Rub crushed rosemary onto meat before roasting or grilling to infuse it with a delightful piney essence.
For a classic preparation, mix rosemary with olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest to create a marinade for lamb chops. This herb also complements roasted turkey, adding depth to the bird’s flavor.
When grilling, sprinkle rosemary directly onto hot coals for an aromatic smoke that will perfume the meat as it cooks.
Vegetables and Rosemary: A Perfect Pairing
Rosemary elevates the taste of many vegetables, particularly root vegetables and mushrooms. Toss potatoes with olive oil and crushed rosemary before roasting for a crispy, fragrant side dish.
Grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers benefit from a light dusting of rosemary. For a warming autumn dish, roast butternut squash with rosemary, sage, and thyme.
Mushrooms and rosemary create a rich umami flavor combination. Sauté button mushrooms with garlic and rosemary for a simple yet flavorful topping for steaks or pasta.
Spicing Up Sauces and Breads
Rosemary adds complexity to sauces and breads. Incorporate it into tomato-based pasta sauces for an extra layer of flavor. Add a pinch to cream-based sauces for a subtle piney note.
In bread making, rosemary shines in focaccia. Knead crushed rosemary into the dough and sprinkle additional herbs on top before baking. For a quick option, mix rosemary into softened butter and spread on warm bread.
Rosemary is a key component in Herbes de Provence, a blend used in Mediterranean cuisine. Use this mixture to season stews, soups, and roasted vegetables.
Unexpected Twists in Desserts
While primarily used in savory dishes, rosemary can add intrigue to desserts. Its piney flavor provides a unique contrast to sweet elements. Infuse simple syrup with rosemary to drizzle over fruit salads or use in cocktails.
Incorporate finely chopped rosemary into shortbread cookies for a sophisticated twist on a classic treat. Add a subtle hint to pound cake batter for a fragrant, herbaceous note.
For an adventurous pairing, sprinkle a small amount of crushed rosemary over dark chocolate truffles. The herb’s resinous quality complements the richness of the chocolate.
Health and Nutrition
Rosemary offers nutritional benefits and potential health-promoting properties. This fragrant herb contains various compounds that may support wellbeing when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Nutritional Information of Rosemary
Rosemary is low in calories but provides several important nutrients. A 1 tablespoon (2 gram) serving of dried rosemary contains:
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Fiber: 0.7 grams
- Protein: 0.1 grams
- Fat: 0.3 grams
It also offers small amounts of iron, calcium, and vitamin B6. Rosemary is rich in antioxidants like rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid, and camphor. These compounds help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Potential Health Benefits
Research suggests rosemary may offer several health benefits. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties could support brain function and memory. Some studies indicate rosemary may help improve digestion and relieve muscle pain.
Rosemary extract has shown promise in laboratory studies for potentially inhibiting cancer cell growth, though more research is needed. The herb’s compounds may also support liver health and help regulate blood sugar levels.
Rosemary can be used fresh or dried in cooking. It’s also available as an essential oil or supplement. However, concentrated forms should be used cautiously and only under medical supervision.
Allergen and Ingredient Information
McCormick Gourmet Organic Crushed Rosemary undergoes careful processing and labeling to provide consumers with accurate allergen and ingredient information. The company follows strict protocols to ensure product safety and transparency.
Allergen Statement and Food Allergies
McCormick Gourmet Organic Crushed Rosemary is free from the top 14 allergens. This includes wheat, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, egg, soy, shellfish, fish, and sesame. The product does not contain gluten, making it suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
McCormick maintains rigorous allergen control programs to prevent cross-contamination. They regularly update their allergen statements to reflect any changes in manufacturing processes or ingredient sourcing.
Consumers with food allergies should always check the product label for the most current information, as formulations may change over time.
Understanding the Ingredient Statement
The ingredient statement for McCormick Gourmet Organic Crushed Rosemary is straightforward: 100% organic rosemary. This single-ingredient product contains no additives, preservatives, or artificial colors.
The organic certification ensures the rosemary is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. It is also non-GMO, meeting the standards for organic labeling.
McCormick’s commitment to transparency means consumers can trust that what’s on the label is exactly what’s in the bottle. The simplicity of the ingredient list makes it easy for those with dietary restrictions to verify the product’s suitability.
Avoiding Cross-Contact: Good Manufacturing Practices
McCormick employs Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) to prevent cross-contact with allergens during production. These practices include:
- Dedicated production lines for allergen-free products
- Thorough cleaning and sanitation procedures between product runs
- Employee training on allergen management
- Regular audits and inspections of facilities
The company also uses specialized equipment and maintains strict inventory control to separate allergenic and non-allergenic ingredients. These measures help ensure the integrity of allergen-free products like the Organic Crushed Rosemary.
McCormick’s allergen control program is designed to meet or exceed regulatory requirements, providing an extra layer of safety for consumers with food allergies.
Labeling and Compliance
McCormick Gourmet Organic Crushed Rosemary adheres to strict labeling standards and food regulations. The company prioritizes transparency and compliance with national and international labeling requirements.
Labeling Policy and Regulations
McCormick favors transparency in product labeling. The company supports efforts to establish uniform national standards for labeling bioengineered foods and ingredients in the United States. Many McCormick products have always been Non-GMO, and the company continues this commitment.
On its labels, McCormick clearly declares food allergens and sensitivities in the ingredient statement. These are never hidden from consumers. The company also participates in the Non-GMO Project verification program, as evidenced by the Non-GMO Project verified seal on qualifying products.
McCormick’s Organic Crushed Rosemary carries the USDA Organic certification, which is prominently displayed on the label. This certification ensures the product meets strict organic standards set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Canadian Food Labeling Laws and Standards
Canadian food labeling laws require clear and accurate information on packaged foods. McCormick complies with these regulations for products sold in Canada. The company ensures its labels include mandatory information such as the common name, list of ingredients, and net quantity.
For organic products like the Crushed Rosemary, McCormick adheres to Canadian Organic Standards. These standards regulate the use of the “organic” claim on food labels. The company must meet specific requirements to use organic logos on its Canadian packaging.
McCormick also follows Canadian bilingual labeling requirements. Product information appears in both English and French on packages sold in Canada, ensuring compliance with language laws.
Incorporating Rosemary into Your Diet
McCormick Gourmet Organic Crushed Rosemary offers versatile options for enhancing meals. This aromatic herb pairs well with various ingredients and can be stored properly to maintain its flavor.
Recipes and Pairings
Rosemary complements a wide range of dishes. It adds depth to roasted meats, particularly lamb and poultry. For a flavorful main course, try marinated lamb chops with crushed rosemary.
This herb also enhances vegetable dishes. Sprinkle it over roasted potatoes for a crispy, aromatic side. Rosemary pairs excellently with other roasted vegetables like carrots and parsnips.
For a simple yet tasty addition to pasta, incorporate rosemary into tomato sauce. It provides a subtle earthy note that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Rosemary can also be used in baking. Add a pinch to savory bread recipes or shortbread cookies for an unexpected twist.
Storing and Preserving Flavor
To maintain the potency of McCormick Gourmet Organic Crushed Rosemary, proper storage is crucial. Keep the container tightly sealed when not in use.
Store rosemary in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This helps preserve its essential oils and flavor compounds.
Avoid storing near heat sources like stoves or ovens, as this can cause the herb to lose its potency more quickly.
For optimal freshness, use within six months of opening. However, properly stored rosemary can retain good flavor for up to a year.
Consider transferring the rosemary to an airtight glass container if planning to store for an extended period. This provides additional protection against moisture and air exposure.
Quality Assurance and Sustainability
McCormick Gourmet prioritizes quality and sustainability in their organic crushed rosemary production. The company implements rigorous standards and partners with farmers to ensure eco-friendly practices.
McCormick’s Commitment to Quality
McCormick Gourmet maintains strict quality control measures for their Organic Crushed Rosemary. The company uses advanced testing methods to verify the purity and potency of each batch.
Their rosemary is certified organic by Quality Assurance International (QAI), ensuring it meets USDA organic standards. This certification guarantees the product is free from synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
McCormick’s manufacturing facilities adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to maintain product safety and consistency. Regular audits and inspections are conducted to uphold these standards.
Sustainable Farming and Sourcing
McCormick partners with farmers in the Mediterranean basin to source their organic rosemary sustainably. These harsh, mountainous regions produce rosemary with deep green color and fragrant volatile oils.
The company promotes eco-friendly farming techniques that preserve soil health and water quality. Crop rotation and natural pest control methods are encouraged to maintain ecological balance.
McCormick’s sustainable sourcing practices support local communities and help preserve traditional farming methods. By working directly with growers, they ensure fair compensation and long-term partnerships.
The company also invests in research to improve rosemary cultivation techniques, aiming to increase yield while minimizing environmental impact.
Additional Product Offerings
McCormick Gourmet offers a diverse range of high-quality spices, herbs, extracts, and food colors beyond their organic crushed rosemary. These products cater to culinary enthusiasts and home cooks seeking premium ingredients for their recipes.
Exploring Other McCormick Gourmet Spices and Herbs
McCormick Gourmet’s spice and herb collection features a wide array of options. Single-ingredient offerings include organic ground cinnamon, smoked paprika, and whole black peppercorns. The brand also provides unique blends like Moroccan seasoning and Italian herb seasoning.
For those interested in global flavors, McCormick Gourmet offers spices like turmeric, saffron, and cardamom. Dried herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme are available in both organic and conventional varieties.
The company sources its spices and herbs from trusted growers worldwide, ensuring top-notch quality and flavor in every bottle.
Flavorful Extracts and Food Colors
McCormick Gourmet’s product line extends to extracts and food colors, enhancing both sweet and savory dishes. Their pure vanilla extract, made from premium Madagascar vanilla beans, is a baker’s staple.
Other extract options include almond, peppermint, and lemon, perfect for adding depth to desserts and beverages. For those seeking natural alternatives, McCormick offers pure extracts without artificial flavors or colors.
The brand’s food color selection includes vibrant liquid colors and natural food colors derived from fruits and vegetables. These coloring agents allow cooks to create visually appealing dishes without compromising on ingredient quality.