What is Lemongrass?

What is lemongrass? It’s a reedy herb and an essential ingredient in southeast Asian cuisine, such as in the Coconut Rice with lemon grass from last issue. The reedy, grass-like stalks are about 18-inches long with a slightly bulbous base. Once cut, lemon grass has a citrusy, floral aroma somewhat similar to lemon zest. You can find lemon grass at Asian markets and some grocery stores.

When buying it, choose firm, pale green stalks. Avoid those that are dry or brown. To use, cut the base until purple rings begin to show, remove the woody outer layer, exposing the inner stalk, then prepare according to your recipe. Store lemon grass, wrapped in plastic, in the refrigerator for 2–3 weeks, or freeze for up to 6 months.

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