• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Recipes by Nora
  • Recipe Index
  • About me
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipe Index
  • About me
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipe Index
    • About me
    • Contact
    • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home » Ingredient Guides

    Lemongrass in Filipino Cooking

    Published: Oct 24, 2023 by Nora Reyes · This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through links on our site, we may earn a commission. · 2 Comments

    7 shares
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Email

    Lemongrass, or tanglad in Filipino, is a citrusy herb worth exploring. Whether you're already familiar with its unique flavor or have yet to try it, this post is for you! Let's learn more about this versatile ingredient that can make your meals even more delicious.

    A bundle of lemongrass
    Jump to:
    • What is lemongrass?
    • What does lemongrass taste like?
    • How to prepare and use lemongrass
    • How to buy lemongrass
    • How to store lemongrass
    • Filipino recipes with lemongrass
    • Other ingredient guides you may like
    • 💬 Comments

    What is lemongrass?

    Lemongrass is a tall, aromatic herb native to tropical regions, particularly in the Philippines. It has slender, pale-green stalks and a bulbous base, resembling the appearance of spring onions or scallions, but tougher and substantially larger in size.

    Belonging to the grass family, it is known scientifically as the genus Cymbopogon. Many types of lemongrass exist, but not all are edible. Cymbopogon citratus is the variety used in cooking, known for its lemony flavor. Other species are often used for its essential oils, like citronella oil.

    Lemongrass plants
    Lemongrass plants

    What does lemongrass taste like?

    Lemongrass has a lemon-like flavor, with a subtle hint of mint and ginger. It's fresh, slightly tangy, and has an underlying earthy note. When you cook with it, it imparts a citrusy aroma that enhances the dish without overpowering it.

    For those unfamiliar with it, think of it as a more delicate, grassier version of lemon that adds a refreshing and aromatic dimension to recipes.

    How to prepare and use lemongrass

    Lemongrass is a versatile herb, used similarly to ginger, that can enhance various dishes. The soft inner portion of the bottom stalk is the main section to use.

    Use the bottom, inner stalks

    Slice off about an inch from the bulbous lower end. Then trim the upper part of the stalk, leaving the lower section between 4 to 6 inches, depending on the size of the stalk.

    Cutting the bottom and upper parts of the lemongrass.

    Peel away the tough, fibrous outer layers, which are typically dry and loose.

    Removing the tough, outer layers of the lemongrass

    You will find a tight, softer section underneath that is pale green to white, about 4 to 6 inches from the base. This is the edible portion and the most flavorful. Rinse them thoroughly before use.

    Holding the edible inner stalks of lemongrass.

    Use in stir-fries/sautés, sauces, and marinades

    For stir-fries and sautés, you can thinly slice, finely chop, or mince the inner part for a more pleasant texture.

    Thinly slicing the lemongrass and mincing them.

    A mortar and pestle can be used to grind and release the aromatic flavors of lemongrass.

    Grinding lemongrass in a mortar and pestle

    For making sauces or marinades, you can blend or puree the ingredients using a blender or food processor for a smoother consistency.

    Blended lemongrass and water

    Use in soups, stews, and tea

    Lemongrass is excellent for chicken and fish dishes as it helps mask or reduce their strong odors. It's also great for soups and stews, especially ones with coconut milk.

    Use the back of a knife or a heavy object to whack the stalk, releasing its essential oils. Let it simmer in the dish and discard after cooking. You can also create a refreshing lemongrass tea by boiling these stalks in water.

    Whacking the lemongrass stalks using a meat mallet.

    Instead of throwing them away, you can use these tough, light green upper stalks to infuse flavor to soups and broths, or to stuff lechon, lechon belly, and lechon manok.

    Holding the upper stalks of lemongrass

    How to buy lemongrass

    In the U.S., fresh lemongrass stalks are commonly available at well-stocked grocery stores and Asian markets. Choose firm stalks that are pale yellow-green and have a small bulb at the end.

    The upper part of the stalk may not appear very fresh, but it should not be brown or wilted. When you gently squeeze or take a whiff, you should smell a lemony aroma. You can find frozen lemongrass and lemongrass paste as convenient alternatives.

    Bundles of lemongrass in the market
    Bundles of lemongrass in the market

    How to store lemongrass

    Lemongrass adds a fresh and vibrant flavor to your dishes. Since you often need only a small quantity at a time, you're likely to have some left over. To keep it fresh and readily available, follow these tips:

    Refrigerate stalks

    Remove the tough outer layers, then place the stalks in a resealable plastic bag in the vegetable crisper drawer of your refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to 3 weeks.

    Freeze stalks, puree or paste

    If you don't plan to use them soon, freezing is an excellent option. Cut the stalks into smaller pieces and place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. Store it in the freezer for up to 6 months.

    To maximize convenience, you can create lemongrass paste or puree by blending it with a bit of water. Freeze the mixture in small containers or ice cube trays. This allows you to conveniently use small portions as needed.

    Filipino recipes with lemongrass

    Tanglad, or lemongrass, is readily available in the Philippines and can often be found in backyards and gardens. Let's explore some Filipino recipes that showcase its citrusy aroma:

    • Chicken Tinola: A classic Filipino chicken soup with ginger and other aromatic ingredients, like lemongrass. It's traditionally cooked with green papaya and chili pepper leaves.
    • Sinigang: A sour soup made with various proteins and vegetables. Lemongrass adds a citrusy aroma and helps reduce strong smells.
    • Chicken Inasal: Grilled chicken barbecue marinated in vinegar, calamansi, lemongrass, ginger, and garlic.
    • Lechon Baboy: Whole roasted pig, sometimes suckling pig, typically stuffed with a variety of herbs and spices, including lemongrass.
    • Cebuchon (Lechon Cebu): A regional variation from Cebu using pork belly, known for its distinct preparation method that often includes lemongrass as a key seasoning.
    • Lechon Manok: Also called litsong manok, this roast chicken is often marinated and stuffed with lemongrass and other aromatic ingredients.
    • Laing: A dish made with dried taro leaves, shrimp paste, and coconut milk. Lemongrass adds a fresh, lemony taste.
    Grilled chicken stuffed with lemongrass on a chopping block.
    Grilled chicken stuffed with lemongrass

    Lemongrass is not just an ordinary herb; its versatility showcases the rich and diverse traditions in Filipino cooking. So, when you come across lemongrass in the market, don't hesitate to give it a try. This ingredient has the potential to elevate your everyday meals to something truly special.

    Other ingredient guides you may like

    • Pouring soy sauce on a saucer plate.
      Soy Sauce: A Filipino Kitchen Staple
    • Banana Blossom on a banana tree.
      Banana Blossom: The Unlikely Vegetable
    • Whole and cracked opened Tamarind.
      Tamarind: A Staple in Filipino Cuisine
    • Rice Flour in a bowl.
      Rice Flour: A Staple in Filipino Snacks and Desserts

    Did you like this post? I would love to know! Your feedback helps me make better recipes.  Please rate, review, or comment below. Questions about this post are welcome, too!

    Let's connect on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, Twitter, and Youtube. Be sure to tag me when you try any of my recipes @recipesbynora!

    More Ingredient Guides

    • Coconut cracked open with macapuno inside.
      Macapuno: The Coconut Mutant
    • Panutsa
      Panutsa: From Sugarcane to Sweet Treat
    • Pork Chicharon with various sizes.
      Pork Chicharon: A Crunchy Filipino Classic
    • Shiitake mushrooms
      Shiitake Mushrooms
    7 shares
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Email

    About the author

    Hi, I'm Nora! 

    Whether you're new to Filipino food or have loved it for so long, I sure am happy you're here!  I hope you'll find useful recipes that you can enjoy and share with family and friends.

    Learn more about me →

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Marissa

      October 24, 2023 at 1:42 pm

      I honestly have not tried working with lemongrass but I have had chicken inasal at Filipino restaurants.

      Reply
      • Nora Reyes

        October 24, 2023 at 1:45 pm

        Hello Marissa! That's alright! If you've enjoyed chicken inasal at Filipino restaurants, you're so close. =) Thanks for your message.

        Reply

    Thanks for coming! Let me know what you think: Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating





    Primary Sidebar

    Hi, I'm Nora! Whether you're new to Filipino food or have loved it for so long, I sure am happy you're here!  I hope you'll find useful recipes that you can enjoy and share with family and friends.

    More about me →

    Popular Recipes

    • Grilled Pork Belly on a plate with pickled vegetables and spicy vinegar dipping sauce.
      Inihaw na Liempo Recipe
    • Beef stir fry with onions and peppers in a wok zoomed in.
      Beef Stir Fry with Onions & Peppers
    • Mackerel on Olive oil on a plate.
      Mackerel in Olive Oil
    • Beef Caldereta topped on a rice served on a plate.
      Beef Caldereta Recipe
    • Buko Pandan on a glass dish cup topped with ice cream covered be rice crisps.
      Buko Pandan Salad Recipe
    • Assorted Filipino foods on a table covered in banana leaf for a Kamayan Feast.
      Kamayan Feast: Bringing Family and Friends Together

    Seasonal Desserts

    You must use the category name, not a URL, in the category field.

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Accessibility Statement
    • Cookie Policy
    • Disclaimer
    • Image Use & Copyright
    • Privacy Policy

    Contact

    • Contact

    Copyright © 2023 RECIPES BY NORA

    We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
    Do not sell my personal information.
    Cookie SettingsAccept
    Manage consent

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
    CookieDurationDescription
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
    viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
    Functional
    Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
    Performance
    Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
    Analytics
    Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
    Advertisement
    Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
    Others
    Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
    SAVE & ACCEPT
    7 shares