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.

Recipes Using Lemongrass

Beginner Cook Meat Main Dish Beef

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.

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Course Course Marinades And Rubs Preparation

Exotic Fruits Barbecue Marinade

Unlock the secrets to unbelievably juicy and flavorful barbecue with our Exotic Fruits Marinade! This vibrant blend of aromatic spices and tropical fruits infuses your meats with an unforgettable taste of the exotic. Perfect for chicken, pork, beef, or even tofu, this marinade is a game-changer for your next grilling adventure. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds!

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For 1 Or 2 Main Ingredient Course Number Of Servings

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.

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Squash Fall Occasion Squash

Arafura Pumpkin Curry

This vibrant Arafura Pumpkin Curry is a delicious and easy Thai-inspired recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal. Mildly spiced and naturally sweet, it's guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family – even the pickiest eaters! We used leftover ingredients to create this magical dish, proving that fridge clean-outs can be incredibly flavorful. Get ready for a taste of Thailand without the fuss!

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Asian Preparation Meat Kosher

Aromatic Chicken Curry

Escape to culinary paradise with this Aromatic Chicken Curry! Unlike typical fiery curries, this recipe prioritizes fragrant spices for a deliciously mild yet flavorful experience. Perfect for those who love the taste of curry but prefer a gentler heat. Easily adjust the spice level – use just one chili pepper if you're sensitive to heat. This comforting dish is ready in under an hour!

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Seafood Asian Cuisine Vegetables

Asian Style Snapper Bream In Banana Leaves

Experience the tantalizing flavors of Asia with this delicious Snapper or Bream baked in fragrant banana leaves! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you grill it on the BBQ for a smoky char or bake it in the oven for a tender, juicy result, the fish is infused with aromatic spices and herbs. Serves 4. Easily adaptable for smaller portions!

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Stir Fry Technique Preparation Spicy

Adam's Laksa For One

Craving a flavorful and customizable Laksa? This recipe, adapted from an army friend's family favorite, lets you create a delicious bowl tailored to your fridge's contents! Easy peasy and adaptable for one or a crowd, this aromatic Laksa bursts with flavor, changing each time you make it. Get ready for a quick and exciting culinary adventure!

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Easy Weeknight Easy Course

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!

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Cuisine Asian Easy 30 Minutes Or Less

Asian Spiced Pork Rissoles

Experience a flavor explosion with these delicious Asian Spiced Pork Rissoles! A vibrant twist on a classic, these juicy rissoles are packed with fragrant ginger, garlic, chili, and lemongrass. Served atop fluffy rice with refreshing cucumber and sweet chili sauce, this recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. (Note: 30-minute chilling time is recommended but optional)

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Coconut Dietary Thai Asian

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!

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Main Ingredient Seafood Shrimp Appetizers

Bbq Prawns With Honey Ginger Mayonnaise

Elevate your weeknight dinner with these succulent BBQ prawns! Marinated in a fragrant blend of lemongrass, kaffir lime, and fish sauce, then grilled to perfection. The homemade honey-ginger mayonnaise adds a sweet and spicy kick that perfectly complements the juicy prawns. A Better Homes and Gardens inspired recipe, ready in under an hour!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Course Easy Preparation

Adventurous Spirit Lemon Infused Rice

Unearth the vibrant flavors of summer with this unique lemon rice recipe, originally featured in Organic Gardening Magazine (Summer 2004). Instead of lemon juice, we use fragrant lemon-scented herbs for a surprisingly refreshing twist. Perfect as a side dish for Asian or Greek-inspired meals, this recipe lets the fresh herbs shine without the distraction of stock. A delightful culinary adventure—though tastes may vary!

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Main Dish Indian Meat Asian

Beef Rendang

Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of authentic Beef Rendang! This slow-cooked Indonesian masterpiece is incredibly tender and flavorful, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. Best of all, it tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping. Get ready for a culinary adventure!

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Meat Holiday Event Cuisine Main Dish

Aromatic Chicken Rendang

Embark on a culinary adventure with our Aromatic Chicken Rendang, a traditional Malaysian dry curry bursting with rich, complex flavors. This recipe features tender chicken slow-cooked in a fragrant coconut milk base, infused with aromatic spices and a touch of sweet brown sugar. The key? Dry-fried coconut added at the end for an irresistible texture and nutty depth. Customize the spice level to your liking with fresh or dried chilies! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Shellfish Asian Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less

Rathu Isso Curry Sri Lankan Red Prawn Curry

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka with this authentic Rathu Isso Curry! This fiery red prawn curry, inspired by Chamaine Solomon, is a delicious explosion of spices and seafood. A fragrant pandan leaf adds an exotic touch to this easily-made, yet incredibly flavorful dish. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, get ready to tantalize your taste buds!

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Time To Make Fruit Vegan Preparation

Aubergine Eggplant Curry With Lemongrass Coconut Milk

Experience a flavor explosion with this vibrant Aubergine Eggplant Curry! Using Japanese aubergines (for their superior texture), this recipe boasts a fragrant lemongrass coconut milk sauce, perfectly complementing the tender eggplant. Impress your taste buds with a quick and easy 40-minute meal.

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Stove Top Savory Course Stove Top

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!

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For 1 Or 2 Time To Make Dietary 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

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