Lemongrass is a popular herb used in many Asian cuisines. It has a bright, lemony flavor that enhances soups, curries, and stir-fries. While fresh lemongrass can be found year-round in some grocery stores, it’s not always readily available. Freezing lemongrass is an easy way to preserve it for future use.
Can You Freeze Lemongrass?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze lemongrass! Freezing is a great way to preserve the flavor and aroma of fresh lemongrass for several months. When frozen properly, lemongrass retains much of its signature lemon flavor when thawed and used in recipes.
How Long Does Lemongrass Last in the Freezer?
Properly frozen lemongrass will last for 3 to 6 months in the freezer before losing potency and flavor. To maximize its shelf life, store frozen lemongrass in an airtight freezer bag or container. Prevent exposure to air and light which can encourage freezer burn.
Does Frozen Lemongrass Work the Same as Fresh?
Frozen lemongrass works quite well in place of fresh in most recipes. The freezing process softens the fibrous stalks, so frozen lemongrass doesn’t need to be chopped as finely as fresh before using. The flavor is preserved nicely, providing the bright, citrusy flavor fresh lemongrass is prized for. The aroma may be slightly muted when using frozen lemongrass, but the taste remains robust.
How to Select Lemongrass for Freezing
Choose fresh, firm lemongrass stalks to freeze. Look for stalks with a tight bulb at the base and crisp, green leaves. Avoid any that are dried out or feel hollow and lightweight. The outer layers should be pale green or yellowish; avoid stalks that are brown or mushy.
How to Prepare Lemongrass for the Freezer
Follow these simple steps for freezing lemongrass:
- Trim off the dry, tough top half of each stalk, stopping when you reach the paler, tender bottom portion.
- Peel and discard the outermost layers if they seem fibrous or dry.
- Rinse the trimmed stalks under cool water.
- Pat the lemongrass dry with paper towels or a clean dish towel.
- Slice the stalks into 1-inch pieces or finely mince using a sharp knife.
- Pack the chopped lemongrass loosely in freezer bags or airtight containers, leaving 1⁄2 inch headspace.
- Label with the contents and freeze date.
- Remove as much air as possible and seal the container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 6 months.
Tips for Freezing Lemongrass
- Slice lemongrass as fine as possible before freezing for easier use in recipes.
- Spread pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze initially, then transfer to bags or containers.
- Blanching lemongrass for 1 minute before freezing helps retain color and flavor.
- Freeze lemongrass in ice cube trays for easy portioning.
- Add a bit of lemon juice or oil to prevent oxidation.
- Avoid overpacking bags and containers, which can lead to crushing.
How to Use Frozen Lemongrass
Frozen lemongrass can be used in place of fresh in most recipes, including:
- Curries, stir-fries, and soups – add frozen lemongrass directly to the cooking liquid.
- Marinades and dressings – allow to thaw beforehand to release flavor.
- Tea – thaw and slice finely before steeping.
- Smoothies – add chopped frozen lemongrass directly to the blender.
Because frozen lemongrass is already softened, you can add it without chopping or mincing. No need to defrost first unless a recipe specifies. Add at the same point you would use fresh lemongrass.
Cooking time may need to be increased slightly to allow the full flavor to infuse into sauces, broths, etc. Taste while cooking and adjust as needed.
Storing Thawed Lemongrass
Once thawed, lemongrass should be used immediately for the best flavor. You can store thawed lemongrass in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days if needed. The taste and aroma will fade quickly, so avoid refreezing thawed lemongrass.
Can You Freeze Lemongrass Paste?
Yes, lemongrass paste freezes nicely. To make lemongrass paste for freezing:
- Chop the bottom 6 inches of fresh lemongrass very finely.
- Place in a food processor or blender with a small amount of vegetable oil and process until a thick, smooth paste forms.
- Spoon the paste into ice cube trays, an ice stick mold, or small freezer containers, leaving 1⁄2 inch headspace.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
The paste cubes can be popped out and added directly to recipes like soups, curries, and sauces. Lemongrass paste imparts an intense lemon flavor and aroma when thawed and heated in cooking.
Other Ways to Preserve Lemongrass
In addition to freezing, lemongrass can be preserved by:
- Drying – Tie washed stalks in small bundles and hang to air dry for 2 weeks before storing in an airtight container.
- Infusing in oil – Add chopped lemongrass to olive or vegetable oil and allow to steep for 1 week before straining and storing in the fridge.
- Brining – Soak chopped lemongrass in a saltwater solution for 1-2 weeks to make a vinegar substitute.
Benefits of Freezing Lemongrass
Freezing lemongrass has several advantages over other preservation methods:
- It’s quick and easy – just chop and pop it in the freezer.
- The flavor is retained better compared to drying or infusing in oil.
- It’s more versatile than brining, which produces a vinegar-like product.
- Frozen lemongrass lasts for months and provides convenience.
- The texture is softened so it’s immediately ready to use from frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you freeze whole lemongrass stalks?
It’s best to slice or mince lemongrass before freezing to make it easier to use straight from the frozen state. Whole stalks tend to become tough and fibrous when thawed.
Can you freeze lemongrass in water?
Freezing lemongrass in water is not recommended, as this can lead to poor texture and diluted flavor. Dry-packing chopped lemongrass is best.
What’s the best way to thaw frozen lemongrass?
You can thaw frozen lemongrass in the refrigerator overnight, or run the bag or container under cool water. Microwaving works in a pinch but may affect texture.
Can you refreeze thawed lemongrass?
It’s best to avoid refreezing previously frozen lemongrass. The texture and flavor degrades significantly with each thaw. Use thawed lemongrass immediately for the freshest taste.
Conclusion
With a few simple steps, fresh lemongrass can be easily frozen for later use in soups, curries, marinades, and more. Trim, rinse, and chop the stalks before packing in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen lemongrass keeps its signature bright, citrusy flavor for 3-6 months. It can be added straight to recipes without thawing or chopping first. Freezing is a great way to make this flavorful herb available year-round.