Lemongrass is commonly used in many Asian dishes to give them a zesty and fresh flavor. However, it can be frustrating when you want to use fresh lemongrass, but it is not available in your local market or grocery store. Dried lemongrass can be a great substitute, and using it can add a unique flavor to your cooking. In this article, we will discuss ways to spice up your dishes with dried lemongrass.
What is Dried Lemongrass?
Dried lemongrass is the processed form of lemongrass, which is a popular herb used in many Asian dishes. The herb is known for its unique, zesty, and citrusy flavor, which makes it perfect for adding zest to many dishes. When the lemongrass is dried, it is ground into fine particles that you can use to flavor your food.
How to Use Dried Lemongrass?
Using Dried Lemongrass in Cooking
When using dried lemongrass in your cooking, it is essential to know that the dried form tends to be a bit more potent than the fresh form. Therefore, you do not need to use much of it. Ground lemongrass can be used either as a spice or as an herb.
To impart its delicious flavor and aroma, you can add it to your stir-fries, curries, soups, stews, and marinades. Dried lemongrass is especially useful when added to dishes like chicken, fish, or seafood. Here is a breakdown of how to use dried lemongrass:
| Type of Dish | Amount of Dried Lemongrass Required |
|---|---|
| Stir-fries | 1 teaspoon per 3-4 servings |
| Curries | 1 teaspoon per 3-4 servings |
| Soups | 1 teaspoon per 3-4 servings |
| Stews | 1 teaspoon per 3-4 servings |
| Marinades | 1-2 teaspoons per 1lb of meat or vegetables |
Brewing Dried Lemongrass Tea
You can also brew dried lemongrass tea to make a refreshing and healthy drink. To make lemongrass tea, all you need to do is steep the dried lemongrass in hot water for about five minutes. You can drink the tea hot or chill it in the refrigerator to serve it as an iced tea. It is important to note that brewing time for the tea determines how strong the flavor will be.
| Dried Lemongrass Required | Water | Brewing Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 teaspoon | 1 cup | 3-5 minutes |
| 2-3 teaspoons | 1 quart | 7-10 minutes |
| 4-5 teaspoons | 1 gallon | 20-25 minutes |
The Benefits of Using Dried Lemongrass
Dried lemongrass has several benefits, including:
It Boosts Your Immune System
Lemongrass is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that help to boost your immune system and promote healthy skin.
It Helps to Improve Your Digestion
Lemongrass is a well-known carminative, which means it helps reduce bloating, flatulence, and stomach cramps. Additionally, it helps to improve the digestion of fats.
It Is a Natural Bug Repellent
Lemongrass contains citronella, which is a natural insect repellent. It is especially useful as a mosquito repellent, so try to add it to your kitchen arsenal of insect repellents.
It Can Help to Reduce Stress
Lemongrass has a relaxing effect, and it helps to improve your mood. Additionally, it can help alleviate headaches, body aches, and other pains around your body.
Recipes That You Can Make with Dried Lemongrass
Dried Lemongrass Chicken Stir-Fry
- 1 pound chicken breast, sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 1 tablespoon chopped shallots
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried lemongrass
- 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1/4 cup water
- Cilantro for garnish
Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add the vegetable oil to the pan, followed by the chicken breast. Cook the chicken until browned, stirring occasionally. Add the garlic and shallots and stir for another minute.
Add the oyster sauce, soy sauce, dried lemongrass, and sriracha sauce to the pan, and stir until the chicken is fully coated. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water together and add it to the pan. Stir for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens, and the chicken is cooked through. Serve hot, garnish with cilantro.
Dried Lemongrass Chicken Salad
- 1 pound boneless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
- 3 cups Chinese cabbage, shredded
- 2 scallions, thinly chopped
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1/2 cucumber, seeded and julienned
- 1/2 small bunch fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/2 small bunch fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried lemongrass
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/3 cup peanuts, chopped
- 1-2 red chili, thinly chopped
In a small bowl, mix the lemongrass, fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar together. Mix the cabbage, scallions, carrots, cucumber, herbs, chicken, and chopped peanuts in a large bowl.
Pour the fish sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables, and mix until everything is coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Serve cold, garnished with chopped fresh chili.
The Bottom Line
Dried lemongrass is a versatile herb that you can use to add flavor to many dishes. Whether you are making chicken, stir-fries, teas or salads, adding dried lemongrass will give your dishes a unique and zesty flavor. Its numerous health benefits and delicious taste make dried lemongrass a must-have in any household kitchen.
FAQs:
- Q: Can I use fresh lemongrass instead of dried?
- A: Yes, fresh lemongrass can be a great substitute for dried. However, you may need to use a bit more of it since the dried form is more potent.
- Q: How long does dried lemongrass last?
- A: Dried lemongrass can last in an airtight container for up to a year.
- Q: Can I use dried lemongrass in baking?
- A: Dried lemongrass is not commonly used in baking since it tends to give a savory rather than sweet flavor.
- Q: What can I use if I don’t have dried lemongrass?
- A: If you do not have dried lemongrass, you can use fresh lemongrass, grated lemon zest, or lemon balm as a substitute.
References:
1. Howarth, M. (1992). The Essential Recipes Thai, Counting House Press.
2. Lemongrass. (2021). Retrieved 20 October 2021, https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-719/lemongrass.