Lemongrass, a fragrant and citrusy herb, is a staple in many cuisines around the world. From Thai curries to Vietnamese soups, lemongrass adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate. Whether you’re looking to spice up your cooking repertoire or trying out new flavors, this versatile ingredient has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering lemongrass recipes that will take your meals from bland to grand. From savory stir-fries and curries to refreshing teas and cocktails, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of spicy dishes or prefer milder flavors, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Read on to discover the power of lemongrass in cooking and get inspired by these flavorful ideas!
Lemongrass Chicken Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry recipe combines the brightness of lemongrass with the richness of chicken, all wrapped up in a savory and aromatic sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the lemongrass, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and ginger. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Lemongrass Beef Noodle Soup
This fragrant and flavorful soup is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine, made with tender beef, fresh lemongrass, and springy noodles. Perfect for a quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones (preferably oxtail or beef neck)
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beef bones, lemongrass, onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili flakes (if using). Pour in broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
2. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Strain soup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot. Discard solids.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves and accompanied by cooked noodles.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Lemongrass Coconut Curry
This vibrant curry combines the bright citrus flavor of lemongrass with the creamy richness of coconut milk, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lemongrass, ginger, onion, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let curry cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops
Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops Recipe
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your pork chops with this simple and delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemongrass, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemongrass Ginger Tea
This refreshing tea combines the citrusy flavors of lemongrass with the spicy warmth of ginger, perfect for a soothing and energizing brew. With its unique blend of herbs, this tea is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling revitalized.
Ingredients:
– 2 stalks of fresh lemongrass
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger
– 1 cup of boiling water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lemongrass stalks with cold water, then chop off the tough outer layer and bruise the inner part to release its oils.
2. Slice the ginger into thin pieces.
3. Combine the lemongrass and ginger in a teapot or infuser.
4. Pour in boiling water, making sure that both herbs are fully submerged.
5. Let it steep for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Strain the tea into a cup and add honey or sugar to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers
These succulent shrimp skewers are infused with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemongrass and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and honey. Add the shrimp and lemongrass; toss to coat.
3. Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Thai Lemongrass Soup (Tom Yum)
This classic Thai soup is a staple of street food markets and home kitchens alike. With its bold flavors and aromatic spices, Tom Yum is a must-try for any fan of Southeast Asian cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 4-6 prawns (or other protein of choice)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth, coconut milk, lemongrass, prawns, garlic, ginger, cumin, and paprika.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until prawns are cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemongrass Infused Rice
This recipe combines the aromatic flavors of lemongrass with simple cooked rice, creating a unique and flavorful side dish perfect for Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised (or 1 teaspoon lemongrass extract)
– 2 cups water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, lemongrass stalks (or extract), and water.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes with the lid still on.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemongrass Tofu Curry
Experience the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia with this simple and aromatic lemongrass tofu curry recipe. A perfect blend of creamy coconut milk, tangy lemongrass, and savory tofu makes for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and tofu. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in curry powder, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let curry cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemongrass and Lime Grilled Fish
A refreshing twist on traditional grilled fish, this recipe combines the bright flavors of lemongrass and lime for a dish that’s perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lime juice, lemongrass, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the fish fillets.
4. Place the fish on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemongrass Basil Chicken
This aromatic and flavorful dish combines the freshness of lemongrass and basil with the richness of chicken, creating a perfect blend of Asian-inspired flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine lemongrass, basil, and garlic.
3. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the lemongrass-basil mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemongrass Beef Satay
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand with this easy-to-make Lemongrass Beef Satay recipe. Marinated beef skewers are grilled to perfection and served with a tangy peanut sauce, crunchy cucumber relish, and steamed jasmine rice.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, sliced into thin strips
• 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Cucumber relish (store-bought or homemade)
• Jasmine rice, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine beef strips, lemongrass, coconut milk, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread marinated beef onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Grill satay for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Serve hot with peanut sauce, cucumber relish, and steamed jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Lemongrass Mussels in Coconut Broth
A flavorful and aromatic seafood dish that combines the freshness of lemongrass with the creaminess of coconut broth, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the mussels under cold water and set aside.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the bruised lemongrass stalks and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in the coconut milk, water, and fish sauce (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the mussels to the pot and cover with a lid. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the mussels are open.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemongrass Ginger Cocktail
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing and zesty lemongrass ginger cocktail, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home. This recipe combines the bright citrus flavor of lemongrass with spicy warmth from fresh ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz lemongrass-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 1/4 oz fresh ginger liqueur (such as Domaine Canton)
– Splash of soda water
– Lime wheel and sprig of lemongrass for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lime juice, simple syrup, lemongrass-infused simple syrup, and ginger liqueur.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of soda water.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and sprig of lemongrass.
Cooking Time: None
Lemongrass Roasted Vegetables
Brighten up your meal with the citrusy flavor of lemongrass, perfectly balanced with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 stalks of fresh lemongrass
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, bruise the lemongrass stalks by gently smashing them with a spoon or mortar.
3. Toss the sweet potato, bell pepper, zucchini, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a large baking sheet.
4. Add the bruised lemongrass to the vegetables and toss to combine.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemongrass and Turmeric Golden Milk
Warm up with this soothing and invigorating drink, perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup almond milk or other non-dairy milk
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon grated fresh lemongrass (or 1/8 teaspoon dried lemongrass)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Pinch of black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the almond milk over medium heat.
2. Add the turmeric powder and whisk until dissolved.
3. Grate in the fresh lemongrass or add the dried lemongrass to the mixture.
4. Whisk well to combine.
5. If desired, stir in the honey until dissolved.
6. Remove from heat and add a pinch of black pepper.
7. Pour into a cup and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Lemongrass Pineapple Fried Rice
This refreshing twist on traditional fried rice combines the sweetness of pineapple with the brightness of lemongrass, perfect for a light and flavorful meal or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1 egg, beaten (for added protein)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped lemongrass and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Add the pineapple and season with salt to taste.
6. If using egg, push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet; crack in the egg and scramble until cooked through. Mix the egg with the rice.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemongrass Honey Glazed Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory lemongrass honey glazed salmon recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine lemongrass, honey, soy sauce, ginger, brown sugar, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the lemongrass glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the bright and citrusy flavor of lemongrass with these 18 mouth-watering recipes. From classic stir-fries to exotic soups, curries, and even tea and cocktails, this list has something for everyone. Try Lemongrass Chicken Stir-Fry or Vietnamese Lemongrass Beef Noodle Soup for a flavorful dinner. For something lighter, whip up some Lemongrass Ginger Tea or enjoy the sweetness of Lemongrass Pineapple Fried Rice. Whether you’re in the mood for meat, seafood, or veggies, these recipes are sure to please your palate and leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
