How to Use Lovage in Cooking
Lovage has a name that makes one think of romance. In fact, that led the herb to be frequently used in love potions and aphrodisiacs. Its name, however, actually comes from where it originally grew, the area of Italy known as Liguria. Though it might not help you find true love, using lovage creates new flavors in your favorite recipes.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Make a simple yet gourmet soup with lovage by simmering the leaves with some carrots and onions in chicken broth. Season to taste. This simple soup is light and refreshing.
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2
Substitute lovage leaves for celery leaves or chopped celery in most recipes. Make certain that the leaves were picked before the plant flowered. Add lovage to the recipe later than you would the chopped celery. The taste is almost the same if you use a little less lovage than you would celery, as it has a stronger flavor.
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3
Use the stems of the lovage plant as straws for a Virgin Mary or Bloody Mary drink. Simply wash thoroughly and clip the ends. It gives the celery taste right to the lips.
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4
Freeze the leaves to save for later. When you've boiled meats and a lot of stock left over, the frozen leaves will add aromatic flavors to the stock.
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5
Cut the young, succulent stems early in the spring and blanch them for a delicious vegetable course. These stems are substantial enough to be used for the vegetable of the meal.
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6
Add lovage to your potato salad or put the leaves in the spring garden salad. They add a unique flavorful bouquet to both.
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7
Grind the seeds of the lovage plant as a flavorful substitute for pepper. This will make guests wonder at what exotic market you found the pepper.
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