LEMONGRASS
(Cymbopogon citratus)
Lemongrass is a wonderful root spice to use in cooking, not just oriental cooking but for sweet and savory dishes as well. The fragrance is holds is unbelievable and it fantastic to place in water when steaming or in rice while cooking as well as simmering in milk for a sweet dessert.The root is quite fibrous so if you are going to put it in stir fries either slice it very thinly or blanch it for a minute in hot water.
Lemongrass is a perfect partner with coconut milk especially when combining it with fish or chicken. Lemongrass can also be dried and turned into a powder which is then called Sereh powder. 1 teaspoon is equivalent to 1 stalk.
To store lemongrass so it lasts wrap it a paper bag or cover with kitchen towel and place in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
The essential oils extracted form the lemongrass is used in lots of aromatherapy products, soaps, cosmetics and perfumes.
Lemongrass can be used and stored in many ways for example dried, fresh and made into a paste. If using the whole stem bruise or bash it first to release the flavor and aromas.
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