Taragon Variety at Coop's Croft
We Grow Tarragon in Pennsville
Coop’s Croft is pleased to feature Common French Tarragon in our herb garden selection, offering a classic herb known for its distinctive flavor and aromatic qualities.
- Tarragon, scientifically known as Artemisia dracunculus, is a culinary herb with slender, green leaves and a subtle anise-like flavor. Known for its aromatic and slightly sweet notes, Common Tarragon is a versatile herb used to enhance the taste of salads, sauces, and various culinary creations. It is a staple in French cuisine and adds a unique touch to a variety of dishes.
The Tarragon variety at Coop’s Croft adds to our herb garden with its aromatic and visually appealing presence. Cultivated with care, Common Tarragon contributes to the herbaceous diversity of our community-supported garden.
Our Tarragon Variety
Common Tarragon
Harvesting
Common Tarragon at Coop’s Croft is carefully tended to ensure optimal growth and the development of its flavorful leaves. As the seasons progress, you can enjoy the abundance of Common Tarragon, ready to be harvested and incorporated into your culinary adventures. We stop harvesting about a month before the first frosts in November.
Tarragon Facts
- Wild tarragon is concentrated in the western United States, from New Mexico and parts of Texas to the coast, and north into Canada. It can also be found as far east as Illinois and parts of New England.
- France grows more tarragon than any other country in Europe.
- There are three main varieties of tarragon including: French Tarragon, Russian Tarragon, and Mexican Tarragon.
- Ancient Greeks chewed Tarragon to numb the mouth to relieve toothaches.
- The leaves contain a compound known as eugenol, a natural anesthetic with anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties.
- The herb is most flavorful when used fresh and is typically added at the end of the cooking process. If the leaves are cooked too long, their subtle anise-like flavoring will turn bitter.
- Tarragon is known as Estragon in French and is affectionately labeled as the “King of Herbs.”
- Tarragon is believed by experts to be native to regions of Mongolia and Siberia and was spread in the Early Ages throughout Asia and Europe.
- French tarragon is preferred for culinary use due to its superior flavor, while Russian tarragon tends to be less flavorful and is often used ornamentally.
Culinary Uses for Tarragon
Tarragon is a flavorful herb with a distinctive taste reminiscent of licorice and pepper. It is commonly used in French cuisine but also finds its way into various international dishes. Here are some popular dishes where tarragon is often featured:
- Chicken Tarragon: A classic French dish where chicken is cooked with a creamy tarragon sauce made with white wine, chicken broth, cream, and fresh tarragon.
- Béarnaise Sauce: A rich and flavorful sauce made with butter, egg yolks, white wine vinegar, shallots, and tarragon. Béarnaise sauce is typically served with steak or grilled fish.
- Tarragon Vinegar: Tarragon leaves can be infused into vinegar to create a flavorful condiment used in salad dressings, marinades, and sauces.
- Egg Dishes: Tarragon adds a burst of flavor to egg dishes such as omelets, quiches, and scrambled eggs.
- Seafood Dishes: Tarragon pairs well with seafood, particularly in dishes like shrimp or lobster salad, where its subtle anise-like flavor complements the sweetness of the seafood.
- Herb Butter: Tarragon-infused butter can be spread over grilled or roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, or used to finish off grilled meats.
- Tarragon Potato Salad: Boiled potatoes are dressed with a tangy vinaigrette made with tarragon, Dijon mustard, vinegar, and olive oil, creating a refreshing and flavorful side dish.
- Tarragon Pesto: A variation of traditional basil pesto, tarragon pesto is made with fresh tarragon leaves, garlic, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and olive oil. It can be tossed with pasta or used as a spread for sandwiches.
- Creamy Tarragon Soup: Tarragon adds a unique flavor to creamy soups, such as potato or asparagus soup, enhancing their taste with its herbal notes.
- Tarragon-infused Oil: Tarragon leaves can be steeped in olive oil to create a fragrant oil used for drizzling over salads, vegetables, or grilled meats.
These are just a few examples of how tarragon can be used to enhance a wide range of dishes with its distinctive flavor profile. Its versatility makes it a beloved herb in many culinary traditions.
Becoming a Coop's Croft Garden Member
By choosing Coop’s Croft for your Common Tarragon, you support a commitment to culinary excellence, herb diversity, and the joy of adding unique and aromatic flavors to your dishes. Common Tarragon is more than an herb; it’s a culinary companion that brings a touch of sophistication to your kitchen creations.
Join us in savoring the subtle and aromatic qualities of Common Tarragon, grown with care and dedication to quality.
