7 herbs every home cook should grow beyond mint and coriander

Coriander and mint dominate most home herb gardens in India. They are easy to grow, familiar to cook with and useful in everything from chutneys to curries. But limiting a herb garden to just those two plants means missing out on a wider range of flavours that can thrive in the same space.

Many culinary herbs grow well in containers, balcony planters and sunny windowsills. Some are staples of Mediterranean cooking, while others are commonly used in Japanese and Southeast Asian kitchens. A few leaves or stalks can change the flavour of a simple meal, whether it is a bowl of rice, roasted vegetables, a salad or a pot of soup.

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Here are seven herbs that are easy to grow at home and can bring something different to your cooking.

Rosemary

Rosemary grows best in a sunny spot and prefers soil that dries out between waterings. Its needle-like leaves have a strong aroma and are often used in roasted potatoes, breads, grilled vegetables and meat dishes. A mature plant can produce enough sprigs for regular use throughout the year.

Oregano

Oregano is a low-maintenance herb that adapts well to containers. Its slightly peppery flavour works well in tomato sauces, marinades, pizzas and salad dressings. Regular harvesting helps the plant stay bushy and productive.

Shiso

Also known as Japanese basil, shiso produces green or purple leaves with flavours that combine hints of mint and citrus. The herb grows well in warm weather and can be added to rice dishes, salads and grilled foods.

Thyme

Thyme is one of the easiest culinary herbs to grow. It tolerates dry conditions and requires little attention once established. The small leaves are widely used in soups, stews and roasted vegetables.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass thrives in warm conditions and grows into large clumps, making it suitable for bigger pots. The stalks are commonly used in Southeast Asian curries, soups and teas, adding a fresh citrus fragrance.

Vietnamese Coriander

Unlike regular coriander, this herb handles heat and humidity well. Its leaves have a peppery flavour and are often used in noodle dishes, soups and salads. It can be a useful option for gardeners who struggle to keep coriander alive during warmer months.

Mexican Tarragon

Mexican tarragon is better suited to hot climates than French tarragon. The leaves have a mild liquorice-like flavour that works well in salads, teas and vegetable dishes. The plant also produces bright yellow flowers.

Group herbs by watering needs

One of the easiest ways to maintain a healthy herb garden is to group plants with similar requirements.

Rosemary, thyme, oregano and Mexican tarragon prefer well-draining soil and less frequent watering. Shiso, lemongrass and Vietnamese coriander grow better in soil that remains consistently moist.

A herb garden does not require much space. A few containers on a balcony or windowsill can provide fresh ingredients for months while introducing flavours that are rarely found in a typical kitchen garden.

For home cooks looking to expand beyond mint and coriander, these herbs are a good place to start.