Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a fragrant herb with citrus flavor, common in Asian dishes.
Flavor profile
Aroma: citrus, lemony
Good to know
Origin: Southeast Asia
Forms: whole stalks, paste, powder
Storage: Refrigerate fresh stalks; dried forms can be stored in a cool, dry place.
How to use lemongrass
Infusing Soups
Simmer lemongrass stalks in broths for a fragrant citrus note. Remove before serving.
Aromatic Marinades
Pound lemongrass into pastes; fibers release essential oils that permeate meats.
What goes with lemongrass
- Coconut Milk. Coconut milk mellows lemongrass with its creamy sweetness.
- Ginger. Ginger's zingy heat contrasts lemongrass's citrus aroma.
- Lime. Lime adds a sharper acidity to lemongrass's citrus notes.
- Cilantro. Cilantro's bright notes amplify lemongrass's citrus flavor.
- Chicken thigh. Lemongrass's citrusy notes lift the richness of grilled chicken thigh.
- Fish Sauce. Lemongrass's citrus oils brighten fish sauce's deep salty umami.
- Mushroom. Lemongrass's citrus oils lighten mushroom's earthy depth in soups.
- Pork Shoulder. Lemongrass's citral cuts pork's richness in marinades and grills.
- Shrimp. Lemongrass's citral brightens shrimp's sweet flavor in soups.
- Scallion. Scallion adds fresh onion bite to lemongrass's citrusy perfume.
Mistakes to avoid
- Raw stalks are tough.
- Remove too early, flavors stay trapped.
Ideas for tonight
- Infuse into a Thai curry.
- Marinate chicken for grilling.
- Brew in tea for refreshment.
Lemongrass: questions
What does lemongrass taste like?
Lemongrass is a fragrant herb with citrus flavor, common in Asian dishes. Its strongest notes are citrus, with an aroma that is citrus, lemony.
What goes well with lemongrass?
Lemongrass pairs best with coconut milk, ginger, lime, cilantro, chicken thigh. Coconut milk mellows lemongrass with its creamy sweetness.
How do you use lemongrass in cooking?
Infusing Soups: simmer lemongrass stalks in broths for a fragrant citrus note. Remove before serving.
How should you store lemongrass?
Refrigerate fresh stalks; dried forms can be stored in a cool, dry place.
What is the most common mistake with lemongrass?
Raw stalks are tough.
