Tarragon, sometimes referred to as artichoke leaf, has been recognized as an essential spice in a multitude of culinary practices since ancient times.
The herb was originally brought from the Mediterranean region and it’s now grown all over the world.
As one of the most versatile herbs, tarragon is used to flavor food, but its pungent flavor also makes it a great addition to cooking.
It’s often combined with other ingredients to create a unique seasoning blend.
Some tarragon plants even have a long shelf life because they dry well — making them perfect for storing year-round.
But before you start drying your own tarragon, here’s what you need to know about how to properly dry this herb.
What is dried tarragon?
Dried tarragon is a small herb that looks like tiny, fuzzy leaves.
It’s native to Europe and Asia and grows wild throughout the United States.
You can buy dried tarragon in grocery stores, markets, and online retailers.
How is dried tarragon used?
Dried tarragon is commonly added to soups, sauces, stews, and marinades as a flavoring agent and to enhance the overall taste of foods.
The herb is especially good when paired with meaty flavors like garlic, onion, and bacon.
Dried tarragon adds a distinctive flavor to both savory and sweet dishes.
You can also add dried tarragon to salads, pasta, and rice dishes.
It complements the flavors of tomatoes, cheese, and wine.
What are the benefits of dried tarragon?
Dried tarragon is considered a powerhouse herb.
It contains high amounts of vitamin C and antioxidants, which help protect the body against diseases and infections.
These benefits make tarragon a popular choice for people looking to improve their health.
Additionally, dried tarragon is packed full of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and zinc.
This combination of nutrients helps keep bones healthy, promotes muscle growth, and improves blood circulation.
Are there any side effects of dried tarragon?
While dried tarragon has many positive uses, it can be harmful if consumed in large quantities.
In fact, consuming too much of this herb could cause diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, headaches, dizziness, and confusion.
It’s best to avoid consuming more than 2 tablespoons (30 mL) per day.
However, this amount is still recommended by experts because more could potentially lead to adverse reactions.
How long does dried tarragon last?
The shelf life of dried tarragon depends on how well it was stored.
If you purchase tarragon at the grocery store, it will likely be packed in plastic bags and shipped directly to your door.
However, if you purchased it online, you may have received packages without any additional instructions.
As a general rule, dried herbs should be stored in airtight containers away from moisture and sunlight.
This way, they can stay fresh longer.
Where can I find dried tarragon?
If you don’t see dried tarragon in your local grocery store, you can order it online.
Some brands offer dried tarragon in bulk, while others sell individual packets.
How do I store dried tarragon?
Like other dried herbs, it’s important to store dried tarragon properly.
Herbs should never be left out in the open for extended periods of time, so put them in a cool, dark place where they won’t get damp.
Store your tarragon in a sealed container, such as a Mason jar, to prevent it from getting damp.
If you’re using a glass jar, ensure that the lid is tightly closed after each use.
To preserve the flavor of your dried tarragon, you can transfer it into smaller jars for storage.
Just be sure to label these containers clearly so you can identify them easily later.
What are some recipes that use dried tarragon?
Dried tarragon goes well with just about everything.
You can use it in salad dressings, condiments, marinades, and soups.
Here are a few tasty recipes to try:
Honey Mustard Sauce
Ricotta Cheese Spread
Pesto Pasta Salad
Chicken Tikka Masala
Green Beans Almondine
Are there any substitutes for dried tarragon?
There aren’t any specific substitutes for dried tarragon.
However, if you want to add a similar flavor to your dishes, try adding fennel seeds instead.
Fennel seeds have a similar flavor to tarragon, but they’re less potent.
Can I grow my own dried tarragon?
Yes!
While dried tarragon doesn’t naturally grow in the U.S., you can easily cultivate it yourself.
All you need to do is plant tarragon seeds in soil rich in organic matter.
Once the seedlings sprout, you can transplant them outdoors once the weather warms up.
What are some substitutes for dried tarragon?
Fennel seeds are a good substitute for dried tarragon because they have a similar flavor profile and contain similar nutrients.
You can combine them with other spices for extra flavor and variety.
11 things you didn’t know about dried tarragon
Read on for 11 interesting facts about dried tarragon:
Dried tarragon is a member of the Asteraceae family, which includes sunflowers, daisy, and chamomile.
Native Americans used tarragon as a medicine to treat colds and coughs.
They would chew the leaves to relieve sore throats and stuff them inside hollowed gourds to cure earaches.
Some cultures believe that eating dried tarragon increases sexual desire.
In the Middle Ages, dried tarragon was known as “the herb of love” and it was used to promote fertility.
The French government banned the sale of tarragon-infused drinks after a woman died from drinking too much of it.
During World War II, German soldiers were encouraged to eat tarragon to increase their stamina and endurance.
Japanese soldiers took dried tarragon with them during World War II, believing it helped them fight off fatigue and exhaustion.
Dried tarragon is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, which might explain why it’s used to treat arthritis, rheumatism, and menstrual cramps.
Dried tarragon is believed to ease digestive problems, including heartburn and indigestion.
Dried tarragon is said to boost brain function and memory, which might explain why it’s used to treat dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Dried tarragon is used to treat respiratory ailments, including bronchitis, laryngitis, and sinus congestion.
Dried tarragon is used to treat urinary tract infection and kidney stones.
What are some substitutes for dried tarragon?
Fennel seeds are a good substitute for dried tarragon because they have a similar flavor profile and contain similar nutrients.
You can combine them with other spices for extra flavor and variety.
I have a true passion for cooking and experimenting with new ingredients, and I have been creating and perfecting recipes for friends and family for years.
- 25 Delicious Jalapeno Recipes - March 29, 2024
- 25 Easy Cool Whip Recipes - March 29, 2024
- 25 Best Jello Recipes - March 29, 2024