Forktionary

Tarragon Leaf

Artemisia dracunculus Herb

Tarragon Leaf Herb

At a Glance

  • Category Herb

The Forktionary Angle

"Its unique flavor profile, a delightful blend of sweet anise and subtle pepper, defines classic French sauces and sophisticated poultry dishes."

Definition

Tarragon leaf is an aromatic herb with a distinctive licorice-like or anise flavor, fundamental to French cuisine, especially in Béarnaise sauce.

Culinary Tradition A key component of the French fines herbes" blend."
Flavor Intensity Fresh tarragon is significantly more potent and nuanced than dried tarragon.
Optimal Usage Best added towards the end of cooking to preserve its delicate flavor.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Tarragon Leaf are:

Anise Licorice Slightly Peppery

Chef’s Secret

Infuse fresh tarragon sprigs into white wine vinegar for a homemade, flavorful tarragon vinegar, perfect for dressings and marinades.

Best Substitutes

Chervil

milder
Ratio 1:1

Anise Seed

use sparingly, very potent

Fennel Fronds

less distinct
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose fresh tarragon with vibrant green, unblemished leaves. Dried tarragon loses much of its potency, so use fresh when possible.

Culinary Pairings

Chicken Fish Eggs Vinegar Mustard Cream Sauces Tomatoes

Recipes Using Tarragon Leaf

Asian Steak Strips Crock Pot image 114
Main Dish Main Dish Preparation Course

Asian Steak Strips Crock Pot

Tender, flavorful Asian steak strips simmered to perfection in your slow cooker! This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Impress your family with this delicious Asian-inspired dish, ready in just 6-8 hours on low. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal. #AsianFood #SlowCookerRecipes #SteakRecipe #EasyDinner #WeeknightMeal

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Baked Chicken Breasts Supreme image
Equipment Chicken Meat Main Ingredient

Baked Chicken Breasts Supreme

Indulge in this classic 1973 Betty Crocker-inspired Baked Chicken Breasts Supreme! Tender chicken breasts are bathed in a rich and flavorful sherry wine sauce, creating a dish that's both elegant and surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to savor the supreme taste of perfectly baked chicken!

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Bbq D Beef Ribs image 147
Main Ingredient Vegetables Seasonal Tomatoes

Bbq D Beef Ribs

Get ready to impress! This BBQ D Beef Ribs recipe is a family favorite, and for good reason. Tender, juicy ribs slathered in a homemade BBQ sauce so good, it'll become your new go-to. This recipe makes enough marinade for up to 3 pounds of beef ribs, perfect for summer cookouts or a weekend feast. The marinade can be made ahead and freezes well, saving you time later. Prepare for melt-in-your-mouth perfection! Prep time includes marinating (4-24 hours).

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