Lemongrass

Lemongrass, also called Tha-Krai, is a tall perennial grass with a distinct citrus aroma and flavour. Each stalk of lemongrass has several sheaths that wrap tightly around the inner core. One or two outer most layer can be peeled away to reveal the tender white centre which can be used in soups and seafood dishes. A secret to getting the most flavour out of the lemongrass is to crush them hard, especially at the base using a knife handle or pestle, so that the delicious juice can be drawn out. If you are not feeling up to much cooking, simply brew the lemongrass in hot water to enjoy a nutritious and invigorating cup of herbal tea. Leftover stalks can be cut in to smaller pieces, dried and kept in airtight container for later usage.