Lovage Conserved for Winter

 Ingredients: -150 g green lovage -50 g oil -30 g sea salt

Lemon balm, this aromatic herb with an unmistakable scent, is an exceptionally versatile ingredient in the kitchen. We start by washing the lemon balm well, being careful not to remove the stems and ribs that are not very thick or woody. These parts are rich in flavor and contribute to the final consistency of our paste. After washing it, spread it out on a clean towel to dry completely. This step is essential, as excess water can affect the texture of the paste.

Once the lemon balm is dry, proceed to chop it. You can use a blender, a food processor, or even a meat grinder, depending on the tools available. The goal is to achieve a fine, homogeneous paste that retains all the natural flavors. Once you have reached the desired consistency, add salt. It is important that the salt is completely dissolved in the lemon balm paste, as it will not only enhance the flavor but also help preserve the mixture.

After the salt is incorporated, begin to add the oil. The oil will provide a creamy texture to the paste and help preserve it. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the ingredients. Once the paste is ready, prepare the ice bags. Using a piping bag, fill each compartment with the lemon balm paste. This trick not only makes portioning easier but also allows you to have individual servings on hand that you can use whenever you need a dose of fresh flavor in your dishes.

After filling all the compartments, seal the bags and make sure to label the date and contents. Then, place them in the freezer. The lemon balm paste can be stored in the freezer for up to a year, making this recipe extremely practical. When you want to use the paste, simply take out a few cubes from the freezer and add them directly to soups, sauces, or stir-fry dishes to bring a touch of freshness and flavor to each preparation. Enjoy the flavor of lemon balm all year round without having to wait for its season!

 Tags:  greenery oil gluten-free recipes lactose-free recipes vegetarian recipes