Grow a few seasoning plants on the kitchen windowsill and pick them fresh while cooking

On the kitchen balcony, casually grow some "seasonings," such as perilla, basil and other herb plants. When cooking, just pick a few leaves to easily make a delicious dish that is also green and safe.

1. Perilla (shiso)

Perilla is not only a very good seasoning, but also a very common Chinese herbal medicine. It is fairly adaptable; generally, just place it in an environment with plenty of light for care. When it is growing vigorously, keep the potting soil moist, but be careful not to let water accumulate. When picking, you can remove the tender shoots at the top, which also encourages branching and makes it easier for the plant to grow into a full pot.

2. Basil

Basil paired with tomatoes gives a unique flavor whether used in cooking or in soup. Basil prefers a warm and humid growing environment, is heat-tolerant but not cold-tolerant, and is fairly drought-tolerant. It is not strict about soil requirements; of course, it is best to plant it in fertile soil with good drainage.

3. Thyme

Thyme is relatively suitable for stewing meat or grilling. Its fragrance is mild and sweetly enticing. Thyme is easy to care for and has good drought tolerance and cold tolerance. You only need to ensure plenty of light and a ventilated environment; when grown in pots, avoid water accumulating in the soil.

4. Lemongrass

Lemongrass has a fresh lemon-like fragrance. It helps promote digestion and can be used as a spice in cooking. It has very strong vitality, tolerates shade, drought and poor soil, likes a slightly moist environment, and is best cared for in scattered light.

5. Mint

Mint has both medicinal and culinary functions. The main edible parts are the stems and leaves. It can be used both as a seasoning and as a spice for eating. In summer, steeping it in water to drink can cool you down and relieve the summer heat. Using mint in cooking can enhance appetite and help with digestion.