Lovage for winter

Lovage for winter - A simple and flavorful recipe to preserve the tastes of summer

Lovage is an aromatic plant often used in traditional cuisine to add a fresh and unmistakable taste to dishes. At the end of April and the beginning of May, lovage reaches its peak flavor, making it the perfect time to preserve it and enjoy it throughout the winter. This recipe will not only fill your pantry with aromas but also allow you to enjoy the taste of lovage even on cold days.

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Drying/freezing time: variable
Number of servings: 4 jars of 500 g

Ingredients:
- 300 g fresh lovage
- 200 ml olive oil
- 100 g iodized salt

Preparation:

1. Harvesting lovage: Choose fresh and healthy lovage, avoiding yellowed or damaged leaves. Fresh lovage is key to achieving quality preservation with intense flavors.

2. Washing: Wash the lovage well under cold water to remove any impurities or insects. This step is essential to ensure that your ingredients are clean and ready for preservation.

3. Cleaning: Remove the leaves from the lovage stems. The stems are tougher and do not preserve as well. A useful tip is to leave a few larger leaves for added flavor.

4. Chopping: Chop the lovage finely using a sharp knife. The finer it is chopped, the more essential oils it will release during preservation.

5. Preservation method: There are two main methods for preserving lovage: drying and preserving in oil and salt. Choose the one that suits you best!

- Drying: Spread the chopped lovage on a tray in a single layer and let it dry in a ventilated place away from sunlight. You can also use a dehydrator if you have one. Drying can take between 24 and 48 hours, depending on the humidity in the air.

- Preserving in oil and salt: In a bowl, combine the chopped lovage with the iodized salt and mix well. Gradually add the olive oil, stirring until the mixture becomes homogeneous. Fill sterilized jars with the mixture, making sure to pack it tightly to avoid air bubbles. Seal the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry.

6. Serving: Preserved lovage can be used in soups, stews, salads, or even as a seasoning for various dishes. When you open a jar, you will smell the intense aroma of summer, which will give a special taste to your meals.

Useful tips:
- If you choose the drying method, you can add dried lovage to herbal teas or use lovage powder in sauces or marinades.
- If you want to experiment, you can combine lovage with other herbs like dill or basil to create an interesting blend.
- Lovage preserved in oil can also be used as a base for dressings, adding a touch of originality to your salads.

Nutritional benefits:
Lovage is rich in vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (calcium, iron, magnesium). It also has anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, making it an ideal ingredient to add not only flavor but also healthy benefits to your dishes.

Calories: Approximately 80 cal/jar of 500 g, depending on the amount of oil used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen lovage instead of fresh lovage? - Yes, but fresh lovage will always provide a more intense and pleasant taste. If you choose the freezing method, make sure to place the lovage in airtight bags to avoid freezer burn.
2. What are the best recipes in which I can use preserved lovage? - Lovage goes wonderfully in vegetable soups, meat stews, or even in potato salads for a refreshing taste.
3. How long can I keep preserved lovage? - If stored properly, preserved lovage can be used for several months. Check the jars periodically to ensure they have not deteriorated.

This winter lovage recipe will not only enrich your pantry but will also bring a note of nostalgia and joy to every meal. So, don’t hesitate! Start preserving lovage and enjoy the summer flavors even on the coldest days of the year.