Herb stalls are worth looking for at local markets, especially in regions where plants are grown, dried and used as part of everyday cooking. Alongside familiar herbs such as thyme, rosemary and mint, you may find regional varieties, dried flowers and blends that are less common in supermarkets.

Markets are particularly useful because herbs are usually sold in small quantities. This makes it possible to try something unfamiliar without buying more than you are likely to use.

Dried herbs should still have a noticeable fragrance. Colour can vary considerably depending on the plant and drying method, but herbs that have very little aroma may have been stored for too long.

It is also worth asking where the herbs come from. Some stalls sell plants grown or collected locally, while others bring products in from elsewhere. A seller who knows the origin can usually explain how a particular herb is commonly used in the region.

Herbal teas are another interesting part of these stalls. Mint, verbena, chamomile and other dried plants may be sold individually or as blends, giving an insight into local habits that goes further than typical souvenir shopping.

A market visit can also lead to other discoveries nearby. Small producers may sell honey, olive oil, preserves, soaps or fresh flowers alongside herbs and spices.

Once home, dried herbs are easy to store in jars or containers away from direct sunlight. Keeping them visible also makes them more likely to be used rather than forgotten at the back of a cupboard.

Buying herbs at a market is ultimately a simple way to bring something useful home while learning a little more about what grows and what people cook with locally.

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