
Dill
Dill is a delicate herb with feathery green leaves and a distinctive flavour that combines fresh, grassy notes with a subtle hint of aniseed and citrus. Its bright and slightly sweet aroma makes it a natural companion for fish, particularly when smoked or grilled, where it adds a fresh contrast to rich, smoky flavours. Dill works best as a finishing herb, sprinkled over dishes just before serving to preserve its vibrant character and avoid bitterness. When cooking with dill over fire, it is important to use it sparingly and avoid prolonged exposure to high heat. The herb’s fine leaves can quickly lose their flavour and colour if charred or cooked too long. Instead, add dill towards the end of the cooking process or use it fresh as a garnish to lift the dish. Dill also pairs well with other BBQ staples such as potatoes, cucumber salads, and creamy sauces, making it a versatile addition to your fire-cooked meals. When buying dill, look for bright green, unblemished fronds that are firm to the touch. Avoid any that appear wilted or yellowed. Fresh dill is best stored wrapped loosely in a damp paper towel inside the fridge, where it can keep for up to a week. For longer storage, dill can be frozen, but this will soften the texture and is best reserved for cooked dishes rather than as a fresh garnish.
Preparation
Use fresh, torn rather than chopped. Don't heat — it loses its anise fragrance immediately.
Cooking
A finishing herb. Classic with smoked and grilled fish, especially salmon and mackerel. Scatter over warm dishes just before serving. Pairs beautifully with cucumber and yoghurt for a sauce alongside grilled lamb.
Health Notes
Dill is a low-calorie herb that adds flavour without adding fat, sugar, or salt. It contains small amounts of vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like calcium and iron, which contribute to overall nutritional value. Using dill in your cooking can help reduce the need for sugar-heavy or salty sauces, supporting cleaner whole-food meals. Herbs like dill also contain antioxidants and compounds that may have mild anti-inflammatory effects. While not a superfood on its own, dill is a valuable flavour multiplier that encourages the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients and balanced seasoning in everyday cooking.
Substitutions
Cook With It
Recipes Using Dill

Caper and Dill Butter
A simple, no-cook compound butter with the bright, tangy flavours of capers and fresh dill. Perfect for melting over grilled fish or vegetables.

Dill and Lemon Creme Fraiche
A fresh, creamy sauce combining dill and lemon with creme fraiche, perfect for fish and light dishes.

Dill and Mustard Dressing
A fresh, tangy dressing combining dill and mustard, perfect for fish and potato salads.

Dill and Mustard Vinaigrette
A simple, herbaceous vinaigrette combining fresh dill with tangy mustard, perfect for fish and salads.

Dill Creme Fraiche
A simple dill creme fraiche sauce with fresh lemon juice, perfect for smoked salmon dishes.

Fire-Baked Rainbow Trout with Herbs
Whole rainbow trout, seasoned with fresh herbs and lemon, cooked directly in the embers of a fire for a beautifully smoky and delicate result.







