Lemongrass is not a citrus plant, but owes its name to the delicate lemon scent that the plant exudes. If you enjoy Asian cooking, lemongrass is an indispensable seasoning that gives many exotic dishes their typical flavor. The spice tastes most intense when freshly harvested and can be cultivated excellently on the windowsill and outdoors during the summer months.
How do I cut lemongrass correctly?
To prune lemongrass properly, select a clump with new growth, carefully separate the stems without damaging the roots, remove outer stalks, and cut off the lower third and branched roots before using in the kitchen.
Carefully cut out the bulbs
You can cut fresh lemongrass stems throughout the entire growth phase. In order for the plant to develop vigorously, you should choose a clump that already has one or more new shoots on its side. Carefully separate the stems without damaging the sensitive roots.
You should not cut lemongrass during the winter months. During this time, only remove yellow leaves, which cost the plant unnecessary energy.
Cleaning lemongrass
Remove the outer stalks completely, as they are usually very tough and inedible. Stems with brown spots are also selected. Wash the stalks carefully and cut off the lower third and the branched roots.
Use in the kitchen
Then score the stem lengthwise so that you can remove the hard outer layers. The inner white parts of the stalks are relatively tender and can be cut into fine rings and added to dishes, sauces or dips. Alternatively, you can crush the stems with a flat iron or knife, cook them and remove them from the food before serving. Overall, the stalks serve as attractive skewers for Asian poultry or fish rolls, to which they also give an interesting sour note.
Lemongrass tea, an exotic refreshment
Since the aroma in the green parts of the plant is extremely intense, they are actually too good to throw away. You can use them to prepare pleasantly sour lemongrass tea, which is very refreshing on hot days. For a cup of tea you need a heaped teaspoon of crushed lemongrass, which you put into a disposable tea bag. Pour boiling water over the lemongrass and let the tea steep for about five to ten minutes.
Tips & Tricks
Occasionally the lemongrass grows tall in the pot, but does not develop any new shoots. In this case, cut off the green parts of the plant a few centimeters above the white base. This stimulates new growth and the plant has enough strength to form new storage organs.
