Tarragon, with its delicate anise-like flavor, is a beloved herb in French cuisine and beyond. But what happens when your recipe only calls for a sprig or two, and you’re left with a generous bunch? Don’t let that vibrant green goodness go to waste! Tarragon is incredibly versatile, and there are countless ways to incorporate its unique flavor into your everyday cooking. From classic sauces to unexpected desserts, let’s explore a world of delicious possibilities for your leftover tarragon.
Infusing Flavors: Tarragon Oils, Vinegars, and Butters
One of the easiest ways to preserve the essence of tarragon is through infusions. These infused products can then be used to elevate a variety of dishes.
Tarragon-Infused Oil: Liquid Gold
Creating tarragon-infused oil is a simple process that yields a flavorful condiment perfect for drizzling over salads, grilled vegetables, or fish. To make it, gently heat a high-quality olive oil in a saucepan over low heat. Add the tarragon leaves (stems removed) and allow them to steep in the warm oil for about 30 minutes. Be careful not to let the oil simmer or boil, as this can damage the herb and affect the flavor. Once infused, let the oil cool completely before straining it through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bottle. Store the oil in a cool, dark place to preserve its flavor and color.
Tarragon Vinegar: A Tangy Delight
Tarragon vinegar adds a bright, herbaceous note to salad dressings, marinades, and sauces. Simply pack a clean jar with fresh tarragon sprigs and cover them with white wine vinegar. Seal the jar tightly and let it sit in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks. The longer it sits, the stronger the tarragon flavor will become. After two weeks, strain the vinegar through a cheesecloth-lined sieve to remove the tarragon leaves. Bottle the infused vinegar and store it in a cool, dark place. You can even add a fresh sprig of tarragon to the bottle for visual appeal. Use tarragon vinegar sparingly, as its flavor can be quite potent.
Tarragon Butter: A Culinary Staple
Tarragon butter is a fantastic way to add a touch of elegance to your cooking. It’s delicious melted over steak, chicken, or fish, or spread on crusty bread. To make tarragon butter, soften unsalted butter at room temperature. Finely chop the tarragon leaves and mix them into the softened butter. You can also add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Once everything is well combined, form the butter into a log using parchment paper and chill it in the refrigerator until firm. Slice the tarragon butter into rounds and use as needed.
Cooking with Tarragon: Savory Applications
Tarragon’s distinct flavor profile makes it a natural complement to a wide range of savory dishes.
Classic Sauces: Béarnaise and Beyond
Tarragon is a key ingredient in classic French sauces like Béarnaise, a rich and creamy sauce that is traditionally served with steak or eggs. It can also be used in other sauces, such as hollandaise or a simple cream sauce, to add a touch of herbaceousness. Experiment with adding tarragon to your favorite sauce recipes for a unique flavor twist.
Herb-Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
Roasting chicken or vegetables with tarragon is a simple yet flavorful way to use the herb. Simply toss chicken pieces or vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions with olive oil, salt, pepper, and chopped tarragon. Roast in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The tarragon will infuse the chicken and vegetables with its delicate anise flavor.
Tarragon-Infused Chicken Salad
Add a sophisticated twist to your chicken salad by incorporating chopped tarragon. Combine cooked chicken, mayonnaise, celery, onion, and tarragon for a flavorful and refreshing salad. Serve it on croissants, lettuce wraps, or crackers.
Enhancing Seafood Dishes
Tarragon pairs exceptionally well with seafood. Sprinkle chopped tarragon over grilled fish, add it to shrimp scampi, or use it to flavor a seafood stew. The herb’s delicate flavor complements the delicate taste of seafood without overpowering it.
Elevating Egg Dishes
Tarragon is a wonderful addition to omelets, frittatas, and scrambled eggs. Its subtle anise flavor adds a touch of elegance to these simple dishes. Try adding chopped tarragon to your next egg dish for a delightful flavor boost.
Preserving Tarragon: Extending Its Lifespan
While using tarragon fresh is ideal, there are several ways to preserve it so you can enjoy its flavor year-round.
Drying Tarragon
Drying tarragon is a straightforward method for preserving its flavor. Harvest the tarragon sprigs in the morning after the dew has dried. Tie the sprigs together in small bunches and hang them upside down in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Alternatively, you can dry the tarragon leaves in a dehydrator or oven on a very low setting. Once the leaves are completely dry and brittle, crumble them and store them in an airtight container. Dried tarragon has a more concentrated flavor than fresh tarragon, so use it sparingly.
Freezing Tarragon
Freezing tarragon is another effective way to preserve its flavor. There are two main methods for freezing tarragon:
- Freezing whole leaves: Wash and dry the tarragon leaves thoroughly. Spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the leaves to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freezing in olive oil: Chop the tarragon leaves and mix them with olive oil. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. These tarragon-infused oil cubes are perfect for adding flavor to soups, stews, and sauces.
Unexpected Uses: Tarragon in Desserts and Drinks
Believe it or not, tarragon can also be used to add a unique twist to desserts and drinks.
Tarragon Ice Cream: A Sweet Surprise
Tarragon ice cream may sound unusual, but the herb’s subtle anise flavor can add a refreshing and sophisticated touch to this classic dessert. Infuse the cream base with tarragon leaves before churning it into ice cream. The resulting ice cream is surprisingly delicious and pairs well with fruit desserts.
Tarragon Simple Syrup: Sweet and Herbaceous
Tarragon simple syrup can be used to sweeten cocktails, lemonade, or even coffee. To make it, combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan. Add a handful of fresh tarragon leaves and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the sugar is dissolved, then remove from heat and let the syrup cool completely. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the tarragon leaves. Store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Tarragon Cocktails: A Refreshing Twist
Add a sprig of tarragon to your favorite cocktails for a refreshing and herbaceous twist. It pairs particularly well with gin, vodka, and white wine. You can also muddle tarragon leaves with other ingredients to create a more intense flavor. Experiment with different cocktail recipes to find your favorite tarragon-infused concoction.
Tarragon Varieties: Exploring Different Flavors
There are two main varieties of tarragon: French tarragon and Russian tarragon. Understanding the differences between these varieties is crucial for successful cooking.
French Tarragon: The Culinary Star
French tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus sativa) is the preferred variety for culinary use. It has a delicate anise flavor and a slightly sweet aroma. French tarragon must be propagated from cuttings or root divisions, as it rarely produces viable seeds. Its flavor is superior to that of Russian tarragon.
Russian Tarragon: A Less Flavorful Option
Russian tarragon (Artemisia dracunculoides) is hardier than French tarragon and can be grown from seeds. However, its flavor is much less pronounced and can be slightly bitter. While Russian tarragon can be used in cooking, it is generally considered inferior to French tarragon.
Growing Tarragon: A Home Gardener’s Delight
Growing your own tarragon is a rewarding experience that allows you to have a fresh supply of this flavorful herb on hand.
Choosing the Right Variety
When growing tarragon, be sure to choose French tarragon, as it is the superior culinary variety. Purchase a plant from a reputable nursery or propagate it from cuttings of an existing French tarragon plant.
Planting and Care
Tarragon prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Plant the tarragon in the spring or fall. Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Fertilize the tarragon plant lightly in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Tarragon is a relatively low-maintenance herb that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions.
Harvesting Tarragon
Harvest tarragon leaves throughout the growing season as needed. Cut the stems back to encourage new growth. The best time to harvest tarragon is in the morning after the dew has dried.
Beyond the Kitchen: Other Uses for Tarragon
While tarragon is primarily known for its culinary uses, it also has some other interesting applications.
Herbal Medicine
In traditional medicine, tarragon has been used for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. Some people use tarragon to treat digestive issues, toothaches, and even menstrual cramps. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using tarragon for medicinal purposes.
Aromatic Uses
The fragrant leaves of tarragon can be used in potpourris and sachets to add a pleasant aroma to your home. The herb’s subtle anise scent is both refreshing and relaxing.
What are some simple ways to use leftover tarragon quickly?
Leftover tarragon can be easily incorporated into everyday meals. Chop it finely and add it to scrambled eggs or omelets for a flavorful and aromatic start to your day. You can also sprinkle it over salads or roasted vegetables to enhance their taste profile. These simple additions make use of small amounts of tarragon without requiring elaborate recipes.
Another quick and delicious option is to create a tarragon butter. Soften butter, mix in chopped tarragon, a pinch of salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice. This infused butter is excellent on grilled meats, fish, or spread on crusty bread. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for future use, extending the lifespan of your leftover herb.
Can I freeze tarragon to preserve it for longer?
Yes, freezing is an excellent way to preserve tarragon and maintain its flavor for extended periods. To freeze it, first wash and thoroughly dry the tarragon sprigs. Then, you can either freeze them whole or chop them up. A great way to retain flavour is to add them into ice cube trays filled with water or olive oil, and freeze.
Once frozen solid, transfer the tarragon cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. Alternatively, if freezing sprigs, lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. After freezing them individually, transfer them to a freezer bag. Properly frozen tarragon can last for several months, ready to be added to your cooking whenever you need it.
What are some classic dishes that highlight tarragon’s flavor?
Tarragon is a key ingredient in several classic French dishes. Béarnaise sauce, a rich and creamy sauce traditionally served with steak, relies heavily on tarragon for its distinctive flavor profile. Chicken Tarragon, a dish featuring chicken braised in a creamy tarragon sauce, is another excellent way to showcase the herb’s delicate anise-like notes.
Beyond French cuisine, tarragon also pairs beautifully with fish and seafood. Tarragon mayonnaise adds a sophisticated touch to sandwiches and salads, while tarragon vinaigrette elevates simple green salads to a new level. The herb’s versatility makes it a welcome addition to numerous culinary creations.
How can I use tarragon in vegetarian or vegan dishes?
Tarragon is a fantastic addition to vegetarian and vegan meals, bringing a layer of aromatic complexity. Try adding chopped tarragon to vegetable soups or stews to enhance their flavor. It also pairs wonderfully with dishes featuring mushrooms, lentils, or beans, adding a fresh and herbaceous note.
Consider using tarragon in vegan dips and spreads. A tarragon-infused white bean dip, for example, can be a delicious and healthy appetizer. Tarragon vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard is perfect for dressing salads or drizzling over roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless when exploring the herb’s potential in plant-based cooking.
Does tarragon pair well with any particular meats or proteins?
Tarragon has an affinity for certain meats and proteins, complementing their natural flavors beautifully. Chicken, as previously mentioned in Chicken Tarragon, is a classic pairing. The herb’s delicate anise notes enhance the chicken’s mild flavor, creating a balanced and aromatic dish.
Fish, particularly white fish like cod or halibut, also benefits from the addition of tarragon. Whether used in a sauce, marinade, or simply sprinkled on top before cooking, tarragon elevates the fish’s delicate flavor. Furthermore, tarragon pairs well with eggs, making it a perfect addition to frittatas, quiches, or scrambled eggs.
What are some less common ways to experiment with leftover tarragon?
Venture beyond the traditional uses of tarragon by exploring unconventional applications. Consider infusing vinegar with tarragon to create a flavorful base for salad dressings and marinades. Tarragon-infused oil can also add a unique touch to drizzling over dishes or used in cooking. These infused products extend the herb’s use and add complexity to your culinary creations.
For a refreshing twist, try making tarragon lemonade or iced tea. The herb’s subtle anise flavor adds a sophisticated element to these classic summer beverages. You can also experiment with incorporating tarragon into desserts, such as ice cream or sorbet, for a surprising and delightful flavor combination. Don’t be afraid to explore the unexpected possibilities that tarragon offers.
How does dried tarragon compare to fresh tarragon in recipes?
While dried tarragon can be used as a substitute for fresh tarragon, there are some notable differences to consider. Fresh tarragon has a brighter, more vibrant flavor than its dried counterpart. Dried tarragon tends to have a more concentrated, slightly bitter taste.
When substituting dried tarragon for fresh, a general rule of thumb is to use one-third of the amount called for in the recipe. For example, if a recipe calls for one tablespoon of fresh tarragon, use one teaspoon of dried tarragon. It’s always best to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, as the intensity of dried herbs can vary. Remember that dried tarragon should be added earlier in the cooking process to allow its flavors to fully develop.