Forktionary

Lemongrass

Cymbopogon citratus Herb/Aromatic

Lemongrass Herb/Aromatic

At a Glance

  • Category Herb/Aromatic

The Forktionary Angle

"Beyond its refreshing scent, lemongrass adds a subtle, earthy citrus complexity that brightens and deepens flavors simultaneously."

Definition

An aromatic grass with a distinct lemon and ginger aroma, widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine for soups, curries, and marinades.

Bruising for Flavor Bruising stalks releases 50% more essential oils
Edible Portion Only the bottom 3-4 inches of the stalk are typically used
Freezing Shelf Life Up to 6 months when finely chopped and frozen

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Lemongrass are:

Lemony gingery earthy fresh slightly floral

Chef’s Secret

When using lemongrass in soups or curries, bruise the stalks with the back of a knife or rolling pin to release more essential oils and flavor before adding.

Best Substitutes

Lemon Zest + Ginger

1 stalk : 1 tsp zest + 1/2 tsp grated ginger

Kaffir Lime Leaves

Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose firm, bright green stalks with a pale yellow base. Avoid dry or browned ends.

Culinary Pairings

Coconut milk galangal chili fish sauce chicken seafood pork ginger

Recipes Using Lemongrass

American Kitchen Classic Basic Thai Curry image 101
Occasion Asian Comfort Food Curries

American Kitchen Classic Basic Thai Curry

Unlock the secrets of authentic Thai curry in just 35 minutes! This easy recipe guides you through creating a vibrant and flavorful curry, customizable to your taste. Choose your favorite protein (chicken, tofu, shrimp—the possibilities are endless!), and load it with your preferred vegetables. From the aromatic simmering sauce to the perfectly tender-crisp vegetables, this recipe is your passport to a delicious Thai culinary adventure. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests!

See Complete Recipe
Aromatic Sticky Rice image 138
For 1 Or 2 Easy Thai Dietary

Aromatic Sticky Rice

Recreate the magic of London's best Thai restaurants with this simple yet flavorful sticky rice recipe! Inspired by a Leith's cooking class, this recipe guarantees perfectly cooked, aromatic rice every time. Get ready to impress your guests with restaurant-quality sticky rice in just 20 minutes.

See Complete Recipe
Asian Inspired Pulled Pork Shoulder For Tacos Or Sliders image 142
Meat Meat Pork Main Ingredient

Asian Inspired Pulled Pork Shoulder For Tacos Or Sliders

Craving incredible, melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork? This slow cooker recipe delivers Asian-fusion flavor in a fraction of the time! Inspired by classic char siu, but with a unique twist, this recipe transforms a pork shoulder into tender, juicy perfection. Perfect for tacos, sliders, or enjoying on its own! Easy, delicious, and ready in just under 8 hours.

See Complete Recipe
Asian Steak Salad image 226
Salads Preparation Cuisine Equipment

Asian Steak Salad

Sizzle into summer with this vibrant Asian Steak Salad! Juicy grilled steak is tossed with a refreshing Asian slaw and a tangy hoisin lime dressing. A quick and easy recipe perfect for a light yet satisfying weeknight dinner. Optional additions like diced tart apples or mandarin oranges add extra sweetness and texture.

See Complete Recipe
Asparagus In Paradise image
Equipment Stir Fry Cuisine Taste Mood

Asparagus In Paradise

Escape to culinary paradise with this vibrant Asparagus in Paradise recipe! Exotic grains of paradise, aromatic seeds from a tropical African plant, lend a zesty, peppery flavor with captivating hints of floral notes, coriander, and cardamom. Toasted almonds add a delightful crunch (or use slivered almonds for a gentler texture). This quick and easy 20-minute recipe is perfect for a light lunch or a sophisticated side dish. Prepare to be amazed by the unexpected flavor combination!

See Complete Recipe
Aubergine Eggplant And Broccoli Laksa image 101
Dietary Number Of Servings 60 Minutes Or Less For 1 Or 2

Aubergine Eggplant And Broccoli Laksa

Spice up your life with this vibrant Aubergine (Eggplant) & Broccoli Laksa! This flavorful soup is packed with healthy veggies, boasts a delicious coconut curry broth, and is surprisingly easy to make in just 35 minutes. Clear your sinuses and warm your belly with this aromatic and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy weekend treat. #Laksa #Eggplant #Broccoli #CoconutCurry #HealthySoup #SpicyFood #EasyRecipe

See Complete Recipe
Awesome Thai Chicken Coconut Curry image 125
Meat Poultry Curries Main Dish

Awesome Thai Chicken Coconut Curry

Experience a taste explosion with this authentic Thai Chicken Coconut Curry! This recipe unlocks the incredible flavor of coconut milk and vibrant curry paste. Don't skimp – every ingredient contributes to the magic! Discover the surprisingly affordable secret ingredient: fish sauce (easily found in the Asian food aisle). Prepare for a culinary adventure that's as delicious as it is easy. Get ready to be amazed!

See Complete Recipe
Beef Kurmah Curried Beef image 147
Main Dish Main Dish Beef Meat

Beef Kurmah Curried Beef

Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of Beef Kurmah, a delightful Malaysian curry! This incredibly tender, flavorful beef curry is perfect for a cozy night in and is freezer-friendly for future delicious meals. Easy to follow instructions guide you to curry perfection!

See Complete Recipe