Lemon verbena is an aromatic herb with a clear lemon-like fragrance and relatively little of the sharp acidity associated with citrus juice.
Selection and Storage
Choose fresh leaves that are green, fragrant and free from blackened or slimy areas. Refrigerate fresh sprigs gently and use promptly; dried leaves should be kept airtight, cool and dark.
Preparation and Culinary Uses
Infuse into syrups, teas, custards, creams and fruit preparations, or use small amounts with fish and poultry. Remove tough leaves after infusion when their texture is not suitable for service.
Chef’s Notes
Assess freshness, aroma, texture and intensity before committing the ingredient to a dish. Season and cook according to the ingredient in front of you rather than treating natural produce as perfectly uniform.
Substitution Principle
Substitute by culinary function and flavour balance. A replacement may match bitterness, aroma, acidity or texture without being identical, so adjust the surrounding seasoning as needed.
Always Cook with Heart. Always!