Tarragon is a versatile herb that adds a unique flavor to various dishes. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or simply want to experiment with new flavors, tarragon is a must-try. In this article, we’ll explore the seasonality, storage, and culinary uses of this delightful herb.
Tarragon Seasonality
Tarragon thrives in the late spring to early summer. However, once the mid-summer heat arrives in most parts of the US, the herb tends to bolt. So, if you want to enjoy the best quality tarragon, try to get it during its peak season.
Eating Tarragon
Tarragon can be used in both fresh and dried forms. Its distinctive flavor makes it a popular choice in many dishes. When cooking with tarragon, it is often added to cooked sauces at the last minute. In fact, it plays a crucial role in several secondary sauces in classical French cuisine, most notably in the famous Sauce Béarnaise.
For those not accustomed to the strong anise or liquorice-like taste of tarragon, it’s important to use it in moderation. The herb pairs exceptionally well with fish, shellfish, poultry, eggs, and fresh vegetables, enhancing their flavors and giving them a delightful twist.
Storing Tarragon
To make your tarragon last longer, there are a few storage options. You can keep the stems right on your counter, in a small vase of water. This way, they can stay fresh for a week or even longer. Another method is to roll the tarragon stems in a damp paper towel and place them in a zip-top bag in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. This way, the herb can stay fresh for 3-4 days.
Cooking with Tarragon
Apart from its prominent role in French cuisine, tarragon is also widely used in Eastern European, Russian, and Persian cuisines. In Eastern European countries, you can find tarragon in dishes like Hungarian chicken soup and Slovenian tarragon potica, a sweet bread. In Persian cuisine, tarragon is an essential herb in sabzi khordan, a fresh herb and vegetable platter served with meals.
Now, let’s explore some delicious ways to incorporate tarragon into your dishes. How about making tarragon butter to drizzle on shellfish, like scallops and lobster? You can also finely chop tarragon leaves and add them to your next omelet, perhaps with a touch of goat cheese. For a refreshing twist, substitute tarragon for basil in a tomato and mozzarella salad. If you’re a fan of flavored mayonnaise, mix some chopped tarragon with prepared or homemade mayo to create a tasty tarragon mayo, perfect for a BLT sandwich. Additionally, you can create a tangy tarragon vinaigrette by combining DIY tarragon vinegar with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this dressing over cooked beets, asparagus, green beans, lentils, potatoes, or peas for a burst of flavor.
With its aromatic and distinct taste, tarragon elevates the flavors of countless dishes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced chef, don’t miss out on the opportunity to experiment with this wonderful herb. Give tarragon a try and let your taste buds embark on a flavorful journey!