How to Clean Tarragon Plant

Tarragon is a popular herb that is widely used in culinary dishes for its distinct flavor. Whether you grow your own tarragon or buy it from the store, it’s important to properly clean the plant before using it in your recipes. Cleaning tarragon not only removes dirt and debris, but it also helps to preserve the herb’s freshness and flavor. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to clean tarragon effectively.

Step 1: Harvesting the Tarragon

Before you can clean your tarragon, you need to harvest it. If you are growing tarragon in your garden or pots, pick the leaves when they are young and tender for the best flavor. You can harvest the leaves individually or cut whole stems from the plant, depending on your preference.

Step 2: Removing Unwanted Parts

Once you have harvested the tarragon, it’s time to remove any unwanted parts. Start by discarding any yellowed or damaged leaves. These leaves can affect the overall taste of your dish and should be removed to ensure optimal flavor.

Next, inspect the stems for any woody or tough sections. These parts can be challenging to chew and may not enhance the taste of your recipes. Trim off any tough sections of the stem using a sharp knife or herb scissors.

Step 3: Washing the Tarragon

After removing any unwanted parts, it’s time to wash the tarragon thoroughly. Properly washing tarragon will remove dirt, pests, and pesticides that may be present on the leaves.

Begin by filling a bowl or sink with cool water. Place the tarragon in the water and swish it around gently for a few seconds. This will help loosen any dirt or debris clinging to the leaves.

Once you have swished the tarragon in water, remove it from the bowl or sink and rinse it under running water. Make sure to rinse each leaf individually to ensure thorough cleaning.

Step 4: Drying the Tarragon

After washing the tarragon, it’s essential to dry it properly before using it in your recipes. Excess moisture can cause the leaves to wilt quickly and lose their flavor.

To dry the tarragon, gently shake off any excess water from the leaves. You can also pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Avoid rubbing the leaves vigorously as this can damage their delicate structure.

Once you have removed most of the moisture, lay the tarragon out on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Allow it to air dry for about 15-20 minutes, or until the leaves feel dry to the touch.

Step 5: Storing the Tarragon

After cleaning and drying the tarragon, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its freshness. There are a few methods you can use to store tarragon, depending on your preference and how long you plan to keep it.

One popular method is to wrap the tarragon loosely in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag or airtight container. The moisture from the paper towel will help keep the leaves hydrated, while the bag or container will prevent them from drying out too quickly.

Alternatively, you can store tarragon in the refrigerator. Place the cleaned and dried tarragon in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container and store it in the vegetable crisper section of your refrigerator. This method can help preserve tarragon for up to two weeks.

Tips for Cleaning Tarragon

• If you have a large batch of tarragon to clean, you can use a salad spinner to dry the leaves quickly.
• Avoid washing tarragon too far in advance, as excess moisture can cause the leaves to spoil faster.
• If you are short on time, you can also use a gentle stream of water from a faucet to rinse the tarragon leaves individually.

In conclusion, cleaning tarragon is an essential step in preparing this flavorful herb for use in culinary dishes. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your tarragon is free from dirt and debris, preserving its freshness and enhancing its flavor. So the next time you reach for tarragon in your kitchen, make sure to clean it properly for the best results.