Tarragon is an herb that adds a unique flavor profile to dishes, with its delicate balance of sweetness and subtle licorice notes. Often underutilized in home cooking, this versatile herb can elevate both savory and sweet recipes. Incorporating tarragon into meals can transform ordinary ingredients into extraordinary culinary experiences.
Exploring new ways to use tarragon opens up a world of possibilities in the kitchen. From traditional French classics to innovative modern creations, this herb pairs well with a variety of ingredients and cuisines. The following collection of recipes showcases tarragon’s versatility and demonstrates how it can be the star ingredient in diverse and flavorful dishes.
1) Tarragon Cream Chicken
Tarragon cream chicken is a classic French-inspired dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, aromatic sauce. The star ingredient, tarragon, imparts a distinctive anise-like flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
To prepare this dish, chicken pieces are typically seared until golden brown. This step creates a flavorful crust and seals in the juices. The chicken is then set aside while the sauce is prepared.
The sauce begins with sautéed shallots, which add a mild onion flavor. White wine or vermouth is often added to deglaze the pan, incorporating all the delicious browned bits from searing the chicken.
Heavy cream forms the base of the sauce, creating a luxurious texture. Fresh tarragon is added, infusing the cream with its unique flavor profile. The chicken is then returned to the pan to simmer in the sauce until fully cooked.
Just before serving, a splash of lemon juice is often added to brighten the flavors. The finished dish is creamy, fragrant, and bursting with the distinct taste of tarragon.
2) Lemon Tarragon Pasta
Lemon tarragon pasta combines zesty citrus flavors with the distinctive anise-like taste of tarragon. This dish can be served hot or cold, making it versatile for various occasions.
The pasta is typically cooked al dente and then tossed with a creamy sauce. The sauce often includes mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, and lemon zest, creating a tangy base.
Fresh tarragon leaves are chopped and added to the sauce, infusing it with their unique flavor. Some recipes incorporate additional herbs like thyme for complexity.
Common additions to the pasta include grapes, sliced almonds, and diced celery. These ingredients provide a mix of sweetness, crunch, and freshness to the dish.
For protein, many versions include diced chicken, often from a rotisserie chicken for convenience. Green onions are frequently added for a mild onion flavor.
The dish is best when allowed to chill for a few hours before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful pasta salad.
3) Herb-Crusted Salmon with Tarragon
Herb-crusted salmon with tarragon offers a delightful twist on a classic dish. This recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with the aromatic essence of tarragon and other herbs.
To prepare, the salmon fillets are seasoned with salt and pepper. A mixture of breadcrumbs, chopped tarragon, and additional herbs is then pressed onto the top of each fillet.
The salmon is baked in a preheated oven until the crust turns golden brown and the fish flakes easily. This cooking method ensures a moist interior with a crispy exterior.
For added flavor, a tarragon sauce can be prepared to accompany the dish. This sauce typically includes Dijon mustard, white wine, cream, and fresh tarragon.
The herb crust provides a textural contrast to the tender salmon, while the tarragon imparts a subtle anise-like flavor. This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad.
Herb-crusted salmon with tarragon is not only flavorful but also nutrient-rich. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, while tarragon offers potential health benefits.
4) Tarragon Mustard Beef Stew
Tarragon Mustard Beef Stew offers a French-inspired twist on classic beef stew. This hearty dish combines tender chunks of beef with a rich, aromatic sauce enhanced by the distinct flavor of tarragon.
The stew begins with browning beef cubes in a large pot. Onions, garlic, and carrots are then added to create a flavorful base. Beef broth, a splash of vermouth, and a dollop of Dijon mustard form the foundation of the sauce.
Fresh tarragon leaves are added towards the end of cooking to preserve their delicate anise-like flavor. The herb’s unique taste complements the rich beef and tangy mustard perfectly.
Potatoes are a traditional addition, becoming tender and infused with the savory broth as they cook. For extra depth, some recipes incorporate mushrooms or pearl onions.
The stew simmers slowly, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to become fork-tender. A final touch of fresh tarragon just before serving adds a bright, aromatic finish to this comforting meal.
5) Spring Pea Tarragon Soup
Spring pea tarragon soup offers a refreshing and vibrant dish that celebrates the flavors of the season. This light soup combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the aromatic essence of tarragon.
The preparation begins by sautéing onions or leeks in a pot until soft and translucent. Garlic is then added for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh or frozen peas are incorporated into the mixture, along with vegetable broth or stock.
Tarragon, with its distinctive anise-like taste, is the key herb in this soup. It complements the peas beautifully, adding a sophisticated touch to the dish. The soup is simmered until the peas are tender and easily mashed.
For a smooth consistency, the soup is typically blended until creamy. Some recipes suggest serving it chilled, making it an ideal choice for warm spring or summer days. A dollop of crème fraîche or a drizzle of olive oil can be added as a finishing touch.
This soup can be prepared in under an hour, making it a convenient option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Its bright green color and fresh flavors make it an appealing and satisfying meal.
6) Grilled Tarragon-Mustard Chicken
Grilled tarragon-mustard chicken combines the aromatic herb tarragon with tangy mustard for a flavorful dish. This recipe typically involves marinating chicken breasts or pieces in a mixture of Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh tarragon.
The marinade infuses the chicken with a delightful blend of flavors. Tarragon’s subtle licorice-like taste complements the sharpness of the mustard, creating a balanced and sophisticated profile.
Grilling the marinated chicken adds a smoky dimension to the dish. The high heat caramelizes the exterior, forming a flavorful crust while keeping the interior juicy and tender.
For best results, marinate the chicken for 6-8 hours in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat fully. When grilling, cook the chicken for about 3 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with grilled vegetables, a fresh green salad, or roasted potatoes to round out the meal.
7) Tarragon-Infused Deviled Eggs
Tarragon-infused deviled eggs offer a sophisticated twist on a classic appetizer. The herb’s subtle anise flavor complements the creamy egg filling beautifully.
To prepare, hard-boil eggs and carefully remove the yolks. Mix the yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and finely chopped fresh tarragon. Add salt and pepper to taste.
For an extra layer of flavor, some recipes incorporate tarragon vinegar into the mixture. This enhances the herb’s presence without overpowering the other ingredients.
Pipe or spoon the filling back into the egg white halves. For a decorative touch, garnish with additional fresh tarragon leaves or a sprinkle of paprika.
Some variations include adding finely chopped scallions to the filling for a mild onion flavor. Others incorporate lemon zest and garlic for a gremolata-inspired twist.
These tarragon-infused deviled eggs make an elegant addition to brunch spreads, picnics, or as hors d’oeuvres at dinner parties. Their unique flavor profile sets them apart from traditional deviled egg recipes.
Understanding Tarragon
Tarragon is an aromatic herb with a distinctive anise-like flavor. It has a rich history in culinary and medicinal use across various cultures. There are different types of tarragon, each with unique characteristics and applications.
Origin and History
Tarragon originated in Central Asia and Siberia. Ancient Greeks and Romans valued the herb for its medicinal properties. They believed tarragon could cure toothaches and snake bites. The herb’s name comes from the Arabic word “tarkhun,” meaning “little dragon.”
Tarragon spread to Europe in the Middle Ages. It gained popularity in French cuisine during the 17th century. The herb became a key ingredient in French cooking, earning the nickname “king of herbs.”
Today, tarragon is cultivated worldwide. It’s used in various cuisines, particularly French, Russian, and Georgian dishes.
Types of Tarragon
There are three main types of tarragon:
French Tarragon: The most prized variety for culinary use. It has a delicate, sweet anise flavor and aroma.
Russian Tarragon: Less flavorful than French tarragon. It’s easier to grow and more cold-hardy.
Mexican Tarragon: Not a true tarragon but has a similar flavor. It’s also known as Mexican marigold mint.
French tarragon is propagated by cuttings, as it rarely produces viable seeds. Russian and Mexican tarragon can be grown from seeds. Each type has different culinary applications based on its flavor profile and intensity.
Cooking with Tarragon
Tarragon elevates dishes with its distinctive anise-like flavor and aroma. This versatile herb pairs well with a variety of ingredients and can be stored and prepared to maximize its culinary potential.
Flavor Profile and Pairings
Tarragon has a bold, bittersweet taste with notes of anise and vanilla. Its unique flavor complements chicken, fish, and egg dishes beautifully. The herb also enhances vegetables like asparagus, carrots, and potatoes.
Tarragon is a key ingredient in French cuisine, featuring prominently in béarnaise sauce and fines herbes. It pairs well with citrus, especially in vinaigrettes and light sauces for seafood.
For a refreshing twist, add tarragon to cocktails or infuse it in vinegar. Its strong flavor means a little goes a long way in recipes.
Storage and Preparation Tips
To keep tarragon fresh, wrap the stems in a damp paper towel and store in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. It will last up to a week. For longer storage, freeze tarragon in ice cube trays with water or oil.
When preparing tarragon, gently strip the leaves from the stems. Chop the leaves just before use to preserve their flavor and aroma. Add tarragon near the end of cooking to maintain its delicate taste.
Dried tarragon is less potent than fresh. Use about one-third the amount of dried tarragon when substituting for fresh in recipes.