Lemongrass: Health Benefits and 5 Flavorful Recipes
Lemongrass, a versatile culinary herb native to Southeast Asia, has gained global popularity for its unique citrusy aroma and flavor. Not only does it add a refreshing zest to dishes, but it also boasts a wealth of health benefits.
Health Benefits of Lemongrass
* Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties: Lemongrass contains potent antioxidants that combat free radicals and reduce inflammation throughout the body.
* Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity: Its essential oils possess antimicrobial properties that help fight infections and protect against harmful bacteria and fungi.
* Digestive Aid: Lemongrass is known for its carminative properties, which alleviate bloating, indigestion, and gas.
* Stress Relief: The calming aroma of lemongrass has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety.
* Boosted Metabolism: Its thermogenic compounds may help increase metabolism and burn calories.
5 Flavorful Lemongrass Recipes
1. Lemongrass Chicken Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 6 stalks lemongrass, thinly sliced
* 1 onion, chopped
* 1 bell pepper, chopped
* 1 cup broccoli florets
* 1/2 cup carrots, sliced
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add lemongrass, onion, bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger-garlic paste.
5. Pour sauce over stir-fry and cook until heated through.
2. Lemongrass Shrimp Soup
Ingredients:
* 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 6 stalks lemongrass, cut into 2-inch pieces
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 cups chicken stock
* 1 cup coconut milk
* 1 tablespoon fish sauce
* 1 lime, juiced
* Cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little oil.
2. Add lemongrass and cook for a minute.
3. Pour in chicken stock, coconut milk, and fish sauce.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink.
6. Stir in lime juice and cilantro before serving.
3. Lemongrass Green Tea
Ingredients:
* 1 cup water
* 1 green tea bag
* 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
* 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil.
2. Add green tea bag and lemongrass to the water.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 5 minutes.
4. Sweeten with honey if desired.
4. Lemongrass Beef Pho
Ingredients:
* 2 pounds beef brisket, cut into thin slices
* 6 stalks lemongrass, cut into 2-inch pieces
* 1 onion, thinly sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 8 cups beef broth
* 1 cup rice noodles
* Sprigs of basil, cilantro, and bean sprouts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beef, lemongrass, onion, garlic, and beef broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until beef is tender.
3. Remove lemongrass stalks before serving.
4. Cook rice noodles according to package directions.
5. To serve, place noodles in a bowl and top with beef, broth, and garnishes.
5. Lemongrass Infused Coconut Milk Rice
Ingredients:
* 1 cup white rice
* 1 1/2 cups coconut milk
* 2 stalks lemongrass, thinly sliced
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and combine with coconut milk, lemongrass, salt, and sugar (if using).
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until all liquid has been absorbed.
3. Fluff with a fork and serve.