What are the best uses for tarragon?

Question

I just bought some for one recipe, but I'm not going to be using the whole jar. What else could I use tarragon for? And while you're at it, if you're an herb and spice culinary expert, could you tell me some uses for other spices and herbs? Basil and oregano are my two favorites, particularly because I know they're typically used in Italian cooking. I love Italian! Other than that, I got a whole slew of herbs/spices in my kitchen and don't really know what to use them for!! Sometimes I experiment with my eggs in the morning. Today, I used tarragon and dried onions along with my regulars: salt and pepper. The other day I used some cooking sherry, old bay seasoning, minced dried garlic and onions and my regulars. It was pretty good.

So, any tips on other herbs/spices?

Answer 1

Tarragon is called the "King of Herbs" by the French, and with good reason. It is the main flavoring in many of the sauces that form the foundation of classic French cuisine, such as barnaise, rigavote and tartare. When paired with chopped sprigs of fresh parsley, chives, and chervil, you have the traditional seasoning blend known as fines herbs. This aromatic blend enhances the flavors of egg, chicken and fish dishes, and is also used as a basis for salad dressings. When using tarragon in cooked dishes, it is best to add it at the end, as heat tends to decrease its flavor. Unlike most of the other herbs, tarragon loses the potency of its flavor when dried. This may be one reason it is so frequently preserved in vinegar, which captures tarragon's essence and creates a tasty condiment that can be used in dressings, mayonnaise and as a zesty deglazing alternative to wine.
I've included a recipe that uses Tarragon.

White Bean and Winter Tarragon Soup
serves 4

8 ounces Great Northern white beans
2 Tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 small fennel bulb, diced, about one cup
2 teaspoons grated lemon peel
2 cloves garlic, minced
7 cups chicken stock
1 Tablespoons fresh winter tarragon leaves, chopped*
3 Tablespoons thinly sliced ham, julienned
salt and pepper to taste


Sort through the beans to remove rocks and other items. Put in a container and cover with four inches of water. Soak overnight. Drain off the water.

In a stainless steel pot heat the olive oil. Saut� the onion and the fennel until golden. Add the grated lemon peel and the garlic. Cook for one minute to release the flavors. Add the stock, cover the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the beans until soft, about one hour.

Stir in the tarragon, reserving 1/2 teaspoon to use for garnish. Add the ham, stirring to blend all flavors. Add salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into decorative soup bowls and garnish with the remaining tarragon.

* French tarragon can be substituted for winter tarragon.

Answer 2

I frequently add tarragon to my scrambled eggs and really like it in chicken dishes, especially a roast chicken.

Basil can will compliment almost any tomato dish, even just sliced tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper, and basil.

Nutmeg is great in a lot of savory dishes; I add a dash to my baked mac and cheese and most of my spinach/dark leafy greens dishes.

Don't underestimate the uses for the standbys of salt (preferably Kosher or sea salt) and fresh ground black pepper.

I've been accused that garlic finds it's way into most of my dishes, except breakfast cereal. Garlic can be really versatile, from sweet and mild to pungent and wild.

The best way to utilize your spice cabinet is to follow some guidelines but then get off the beaten path and try things out for yourself. Sounds like you aren't afraid to experiment; you're on the right track to find the things that you like, no matter the conventional suggestions.

Answer 3

I use tarragon for a few dishes. I bake fish with a mixture of tarragon, melted butter, green onions and mushrooms on top. I'd be happy to share the recipe if you'd like it.

I also use it for a red wine fondue sauce and bearnaise for a filet mignon.

I use the same usual herbs and have recently discovered a couple of uses for nutmeg and cloves.

Good luck!

Answer 4

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
What are the best uses for tarragon?
I just bought some for one recipe, but I'm not going to be using the whole jar. What else could I use tarragon for? And while you're at it, if you're an herb and spice culinary expert, could you tell me some uses for other spices and herbs? Basil and oregano are my two favorites,...

Answer 5

Tarragon Spice

Answer 6

Teresa's got you covered. The only thing I have to add is use sparingly the first time you try it. Tarragon's flavor is odd to some folks. I don't much care for it.

Answer 7

CHICKEN. I don't use it on anything else.