Originally hailing from Asia, lemongrass is one of those incredibly versatile plants that every home gardener and cook should have on hand. While you wouldn’t want to munch on it raw, there are so many ways to unlock its bright, citrusy flavor in your kitchen and home.
Ways to Use Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a superstar in Asian cuisine, loved for that signature zesty aroma that gives dishes a unique, savory kick. But it’s not just for stir-fries! You can also use it for:
- Brewing a refreshing cup of tea.
- Warding off mosquitoes and other pesky bugs, thanks to its natural citronella oil.
Fresh is Best
When it comes to flavor, nothing beats fresh lemongrass—ideally harvested right before you’re ready to use it. That’s when the aromatic oils are at their peak. If you can’t get it fresh, don’t sweat it; frozen lemongrass holds onto its flavor surprisingly well and is a great backup for your freezer.
Stick to the White Parts
Here’s a pro tip: when you’re prepping lemongrass, you only want the pale, fleshy bottom bulb and the white part of the stalk. Peel away those tough, fibrous outer layers first. They aren’t toxic, but they don’t have much flavor and are pretty woody. Since the stalks are quite hard, make sure you’re using a sharp, sturdy chef’s knife. Slice the white parts into thin rings to toss into your favorite recipes.
Cooking with Lemongrass
To really get the most out of that citrus punch, you’ll want to let the lemongrass simmer right along with your food. Try bruising the stalks (give them a good whack with the back of your knife) and snapping them into a few pieces before dropping them into the pot. This helps release all those essential oils. Just remember to fish the woody pieces out before you serve!
Alternatively, if you want to eat the lemongrass, mince it very finely or use a mortar and pestle to turn it into a paste. You can then stir it directly into the dish or use it as a flavorful topping.
Lemongrass Tea
Don’t throw away those green tops! You can chop up the green leafy parts of the plant to make a delicious, fresh lemongrass tea. It’s not just tasty—it’s also known for being super soothing if you’re dealing with an upset stomach or digestive issues.
Natural Mosquito Repellent
The citronella oil found in lemongrass is a natural powerhouse against mosquitoes. You can put this to work by using citronella oil in diffusers or lamps around your patio or living room. It’s a fantastic, chemical-free way to keep the bugs at bay while you’re enjoying a summer evening outdoors.
