Description

Lemon grass is a perennial, botanically known as Cymbopogon Citratus. This herb has a delicate lemon flavor. Lemongrass has long, thin, sharp, green leaves that are grass-like and have a scallion-like base. It grows in tropical regions to up to 6 feet under ideal conditions and to about 3 feet in more northerly climates. Lemongrass also has insect repellant properties and is an ingredient in citronella. Lemon grass is also used for medicinal purposes. Lemongrass is mostly available at Asian stores. They sell them in bunches of 3 to 4 stalks.

Fresh stalks of lemongrass.

Origin

Lemon grass is a native of southeast Asia.

Bruise the stalk of lemongrass to extract it's fresh flavor.

Use

The entire stalk of lemongrass can be used. However, it's best to take out the tougher outer leaves. Then, the grass blade can be sliced very fine and added to soups. The bulb can be bruised and minced for use in a variety of recipes. Lemongrass is widely used in Thai and Vietnamese cooking. This aromatic herb is also used in many Caribbean and Asian cuisines. It has also become very popular in the United States. The light lemon flavor of this grass blends well with garlic, chilies and cilantro. The herb is frequently used in curries, seafood and soups. Lemongrass is also used to make flavored tea.

Allspice
Anise Seed
Arrowroot
Basil, Sweet
Bay Leaves
Caraway Seed
Cardamom
Cayenne Pepper
Celery Seed
Chervil
Chives
Cilantro
Cinnamon
Cloves
Coriander
Cream of Tartar
Cumin
Curry Powder
Dill
Fennel Seed
Garlic
Ginger
Horseradish
Juniper Berries

Dried Basil Leaves