In the US, lovage is sometimes referred to as “false celery” due to its similar fresh, celery-like scent, and the fact that its seeds are known as celery seed.
Lovage is a herb with pointy leaves that emit a fresh scent resembling celery. It is often called “false celery” in the US. The plant’s seeds are also used as celery seed in cooking. Lovage can be a versatile addition to dishes, adding a unique flavor profile reminiscent of the crisp, green vegetable. Additionally, lovage is known for its medicinal properties, including its use as a digestive aid and for its diuretic effects.
Lovage Basics The beautifully pointy leaves omit a fresh, celery-like scent, which explains why the herb earned the nickname “false celery.” And that’s not its only relation to the crisp, green veggie. The seeds of the lovage plant are known as celery seed.
What goes well with lovage?
Lovage, also known as sea parsley, pairs well with pork, poultry, soups, stews, and stocks, adding an intense celery-like flavor. Additionally, lovage can enhance the taste of potato dishes. Other great combinations include:
1. Lovage in salad dressings for a fresh kick.
2. Lovage infused in vinegar for a unique twist.
3. Lovage mixed with butter for a flavorful spread.
These pairings complement lovage’s robust taste and versatility in various dishes.
What does lovage pair with?
Lovage pairs well with pork, chicken, fish chowder, and just-boiled new potatoes with mustardy vinaigrette. You can also add chopped lovage to salads or stuffings. This versatile herb complements eggs perfectly; try stirring lovage leaves into omelettes, scrambled eggs, or frittatas for added flavor.
Can you eat lovage stalks?
Yes, you can eat lovage stalks. You can chop them and add them to salads, pork or chicken stuffings, fish chowder, or just-boiled new potatoes with a mustardy vinaigrette. Lovage leaves can also be stirred into dishes like omelettes, scrambled eggs, or frittatas for added flavor.
Can you eat lovage leaves?
Yes, lovage leaves are edible and versatile in cooking. They can be added to salads, pastas, sauces, dressings, and pesto. The stalks with whole handfuls are also used as a bed for roasting or grilling fish filets. Additionally, lovage roots and seeds are also edible.
What can you do with lovage stalks?
You can use lovage stalks in various ways. For example, you can add the leaves to salads, pastas, sauces, dressings, and pesto. Alternatively, you can use whole handfuls, including the stalks, as a bed under a fish filet before roasting or grilling. Additionally, lovage roots and seeds are also edible and can be enjoyed in different dishes.
Is cutting celery the same as lovage?
Cutting celery is not the same as lovage. Lovage (Levisticum officinale) is a perennial plant with large flat-topped yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. The nectar and pollen of these flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while birds enjoy feeding on the seeds.
Can you be allergic to lovage?
Yes, you can be allergic to lovage. Break down the word ‘lovage’ into sounds: [LUV] + [IJ]. Practice saying ‘lovage’ in full sentences, exaggerating the sounds to identify any mistakes easily.
1. Allergies to lovage may present as itching or swelling upon contact.
2. Some individuals may experience respiratory or digestive issues after consuming lovage.
3. Seek medical advice if you suspect an allergy to lovage for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How is lovage pronounced?
Lovage is pronounced as “luv-ij.” In Germany and the Netherlands, lovage is also known as Maggikraut in German or Maggiplant in Dutch due to its flavor resembling Maggi soup seasoning. The herb is commonly used in cooking to add a savory and aromatic taste to dishes, particularly in soups, stews, and sauces. Its flavor is often described as a combination of celery and parsley.
What are some fun facts about lovage?
Lovage is known for its sweet flavor resembling that of celery. Its essential oil, derived from the plant’s flowering tops, is commonly used in perfumes and as a flavoring agent. Traditional medicine has utilized different parts of the lovage plant for various purposes. Interestingly, lovage is the sole member of the Levisticum genus.
What can I do with lots of lovage?
You can use lots of lovage, also known as sea parsley, to add a strong celery-like taste to soups, stews, stocks, pork, poultry dishes, and potato dishes. Additionally, lovage can be infused in vinegar or used to flavor salads, dressings, and sauces. The seeds can be ground and used as a spice, while lovage leaves can also be dried for future culinary uses.
Why is lovage called Maggi plant?
Lovage is called the Maggi plant because it is known as sea parsley. The plant’s leaves and stem provide a strong celery-like flavor, ideal for enhancing soups, stews, stocks, pork, poultry, and potato dishes. Additionally, its unique taste is reminiscent of Maggi seasoning, further explaining the nickname.
Will deer eat lovage?
Yes, there is anecdotal evidence suggesting that deer may eat lovage. Although no studies have been conducted on this topic, it is possible due to lovage being closely related to allergenic plants like carrots and celery.
1. Lovage belongs to the Apiaceae family, along with carrots and celery.
2. Deer are known to browse on a variety of plants for food.
3. It is important to consider potential risks if planting lovage in areas with deer populations.
Does lovage taste like celery?
Lovage Basics The seeds of the lovage plant are known as celery seed. Lovage tastes like celery, with undertones of parsley and hint of anise. It’s mild enough to use with fish and poultry, but has just enough spice to make it interesting.
Can you freeze fresh lovage?
Herbs with high water content, such as basil, lovage, mint, lemon balm, and tarragon can also be frozen. Freezing preserves herbs in a bright green state and makes them available for adding to soups and stews in winter.
What do you do with lovage seeds?
The seeds can be used just as you’d use celery seeds (but I very much doubt that you’ll ever find a jar of lovage seeds at the store any time soon!) Both the seeds and leaves can also be added to pickling liquid. The stalks and roots of a lovage plant can be cooked and used with and like other root vegetables.
Can you eat lovage stalks raw?
If you desire to eat the lovage leaf stalks raw like celery, don’t forget to blanch them before consumption. Besides eating blanched lovage leaf stalks raw, you may also cover them with candy and use these to adorn cakes and desserts. Even lovage seeds and roots are useful culinary items.
Should I soak lovage seeds?
Lovage seeds do not require any treatment (eg soaking, stratification) before sowing. Lovage seeds can be sown directly into the garden OR seedlings can be raised in trays or other containers and transplanted to the garden once established.
In conclusion, lovage, a versatile herb, is commonly known as “love parsley” or “maggi plant” in the United States. Despite being less familiar than other herbs, lovage’s distinct flavor profile and culinary uses make it a valuable addition to dishes for those seeking a unique and savory taste. Whether it’s adding depth to soups, stews, or salads, lovage can elevate the flavors of your favorite recipes and introduce a new dimension to your culinary creations. So, next time you come across lovage in a recipe, don’t hesitate to give it a try and explore the delightful nuances it can bring to your cooking.