As a sommelier and brewer with a passion for herbs and flavors, I can confidently say that tarragon stems are not typically eaten. While the leaves of tarragon are the most commonly used part of the herb, the stems are often discarded due to their tough and fibrous texture. However, this doesn’t mean that the stems have no use at all.
In some cases, if the stems are young and tender, they can be used to infuse flavor into liquids, such as stocks, sauces, or even vinegar. Simply add the stems to the liquid while cooking or steeping, and then remove them before serving. This can impart a subtle tarragon flavor to your dish without the need for using the leaves.
Another way to utilize tarragon stems is to save them for making herb-infused oils. By placing the stems in a bottle and covering them with a neutral oil, such as olive or grapeseed oil, you can create a flavorful oil that can be used for cooking or drizzling over dishes as a finishing touch. This method allows you to extract the essence of tarragon from the stems, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
While it is possible to eat tarragon stems, they are often tough and fibrous, which can be unpleasant to chew. However, if you prefer a more rustic and textured experience, you can certainly experiment with incorporating the stems into your dishes. Just ensure that you chop them finely or cook them for a longer period to soften them and make them more palatable.
Personally, I have found that removing the tarragon leaves from the stems provides the best flavor and texture when using this herb in my culinary creations. The leaves have a delicate anise-like taste that pairs wonderfully with seafood, poultry, and vegetables. Whether I’m making a creamy tarragon sauce for chicken or adding a sprinkle of chopped tarragon to a summer salad, the leaves are my go-to choice.
While tarragon stems are not typically eaten due to their tough and fibrous texture, they can still be used to infuse flavor into liquids or to create herb-infused oils. However, for the best culinary experience, it is recommended to focus on using the tarragon leaves, which provide the desired flavor and texture. Experiment with this versatile herb and discover how it can elevate your dishes to new heights of deliciousness.