Dried vs Fresh Herbs

Most herbs come in two forms: Dried and Fresh.  What's the difference between them?  

(Picture of Fresh Basil)

(Picture of dried basil)

Generally, fresh herbs are more expensive and potent than dried herbs.  The ratio of using fresh to dried herbs is 3-to-1.  This means that dried herbs are more concentrated because they are ground together.

Example: If a recipe calls for one tablespoon of fresh basil, but you only have dried basil, then you use one teaspoon of dried basil (three teaspoons = one tablespoon.  One teaspoon is 1/3 the amount of one tablespoon).

Dried herbs have a different flavor and aroma that fresh.  For example, dried basil has more of a smoky, deep flavor, while fresh basil is more minty and lemony.  Fresh oregano has a softer, herbaceous flavor, while dried is strong and intense.

Experiment with different herbs to see which ones you like.

Source: The Starter Cook by Linda Johnson Larsen