Ingredient Name: Lemon Grass, lemongrass, Cymbopogon citratus, wire grass, citronella grass, fever grass etc..

Traditional Chinese Name: 香茅草 (Xiāng máo căo) – literal translation of “fragrant grass”

What is this?

• A tall, green grass that is native to India and used widely in Thai and Vietnamese cuisines
• Extremely fragrant with a citrus flavor and is used in soups, teas, stews and curries

How do I prepare it?

• Rinse in warm water
• Can be used in dishes or soups cut in larger pieces or as a whole stalk
• It is usually used in small amounts to enhance flavors

Where can I buy this?

Available in wet marts in Hong Kong
Readily available in markets in South East Asia
Not always commonly available in western supermarkets – although it is also available in dried or powdered forms (not as fragrant or strong in flavors)

What is the cost?

• 1 stalk Hong Kong cost around $1 (extremely affordable)

Any benefits?

There is an active ingredient in lemongrass similar to lemon peels called Citral – which aids in digestion
Said to also relieve headaches, muscle cramps and spasms

Additional Information:

• Store in an air tight bag in the fridge for up to 3 weeks
• Can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months as well\

References:

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cymbopogon