Lemon grass

Cymgopogon citratus, syn Andropogon schoenanthus (Gramineae)

Also known as Citronella.

Can be found in our Chicken mix.

Lemon Grass is a plant which grows in tufts, with long, sharp-edged leaves, in sunny, damp climates. Grown commercially in South-east Asia, Southern India, Africa, Brazil, Guatemala, the USA and the West Indies, the stems have no aromatic qualities until they are cut. It is only then that their citrus aroma is apparent.

Used in the culinary arena, Lemon Grass gives a distinct, lively, lemon tang to dishes. (If you are unable to obtain fresh Lemon Grass, you could use lemon rind as an alternative, although it does not have the same impact). Ground dried Lemon Grass Powder (Sereh) can be used in the absence of fresh lemon Grass (about 1tsp substituted for 1 fresh stalk). It is an ideal ingredient in soups, marinades, stir-fries and curries, and works exceptionally well with coconut milk. Fish (including seafood) and chicken can benefit from its aromatic qualities.

Favoured by the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans it has been associated with cosmetic and medicinal uses. Nowadays, essential oils made from Lemon Grass are used in the manufacture of soaps and perfumes. Aromatherapists also makes use of Lemon Grass in their treatments. There have been claims made that Rehumatism, Lumbago and Sprains can benefit from treatment with ointment made with Lemon Grass.

To store your fresh Lemon Grass, wrap them in some baking parchment (or if you have none to hand, use greaseproof paper instead) and keep them in the vegetable box (on the bottom) of your fridge. They should stay fresh enough to use for about 3 weeks (depending on their freshness at the time of purchase).

You can also freeze your Lemon Grass, removing the lower, woody, part of the stem and chopping it, and placing the small pieces with the top, more tender, parts of the stems. An ideal method is to freeze the top stems and some of the chopped lower stems in twos, an ideal amount for any recipe. This way you can avoid wastage, and maintain your stock for future use.