Wondering what the flavor of tarragon is? We’re discussing taste, texture, cooking methods and more. Stick around until the end to see vegan recipes you won’t want to miss.
Let’s dive in…
What Does Tarragon Taste Like?
Tarragon is a strong herb. In dried form, it smells and tastes a little like dill, though very floral. As you chew it, you may get black pepper notes, mild lemon and anise.
Fresh tarragon is even more herbal in flavor with a more intense anise taste. Still, the dried herb is just about as potent as the fresh one, unlike basil and oregano.
Tarragon Texture
Dried tarragon can usually be found as bits of whole leaf in a jar rather than as a ground powder. The leaves are thin and papery but nice and chewy.
Freshly picked tarragon leaves are tender with a texture not too far from butter lettuce. They’re a bit denser than lettuce, but they’re not tough in the least.
Related Article: What Does Tamarind Sauce Taste Like?
How Is Tarragon Used in Cooking?
There are different uses for the dried and fresh stuff. The dried herb can be added at any stage of cooking, but it’s usually recommended that the fresh leaves be added when a dish is nearly finished to preserve their delicate flavor.
Sauces of all sorts of made with tarragon. It’s especially excellent in creamy sauces, so think about adding it to cashew creams and white sauces for vegan pizza.
Recommended Article: What Does Taro Taste Like?
What Can Be Used Instead of Tarragon?
No tarragon? No problem. Use dried fennel or anise instead. Otherwise, what you’ll substitute for tarragon will vary with what you’re making.
If you were going to use fresh tarragon, just about any strong fresh herb can be substituted, including rosemary, basil, sage and oregano. As for the dry herb, dried dill and marjoram are nearly perfect.
You Might Also Like: What Does Tamarind Soda Taste Like?
Tarragon Recipe Tips
The thing about tarragon is that it’s not one of the herbs you want to throw in whatever you’re making. It usually works best when it’s the primary seasoning, as you’ll see in these videos with easy vegan recipes.
This pasta dish is decadently creamy and bursting with flavor.
Here’s what you’ll need to make it:
- Fusilli pasta
- Leeks
- Mushrooms
- Dried tarragon
- Garlic
- Tarragon vinegar
- Veggie broth
- Vegan cream
Read Also: What Does Tamarindo (Agua Fresca) Taste Like?
This video is going to show you how to make a raw tomato soup with tarragon. Serve it like gazpacho or gently warm it on the stove over low heat.
Here’s what you need:
- Water
- Flaxseed oil
- Garlic
- Fresh tarragon
- Fresh parsley
- Sea salt
- Tomatoes
- Nutmeg
- Black pepper
Wrap Up
The flavor of tarragon is robust, floral and anise-like. As an herb, it works best alone or with a selection of specific spices and herbs it gets along with. It’ll make gorgeous soups, dressings and sauces, and the more you cook with it, the more you’ll want to keep using it in your recipes.
READ ALSO: If you’re searching for a tiny but reliable microwave for small kitchens, you might wanna this guide for the Best Microwave for College Dorm Room.
Related Article: What Does Tempeh Taste Like?
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
