TARRAGONS Meaning and
Definition
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Tarragons are perennial herbs belonging to the genus Artemisia in the Asteraceae family. This plant is renowned for its unique aroma and flavor, which are mainly attributed to its high concentration of essential oils. There are two primary types of tarragon: French tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus var. sativa) and Russian tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus var. inodora).
French tarragon is widely considered the superior and more desirable variety due to its stronger and more distinct flavor. It is a small, shrub-like plant with narrow leaves and sprouts numerous small, yellowish green flowers during the summer. Russian tarragon, on the other hand, has a milder taste and is often considered a lesser substitute to its French counterpart. It tends to have coarser and broader leaves with fewer flowers.
Tarragons are extensively used in culinary dishes around the world, particularly in French cuisine. They offer a unique blend of flavors, combining elements of sweet, licorice, and anise. Their leaves are commonly utilized as both a seasoning and a garnish in salads, sauces, dressings, and soups. Additionally, tarragon is a key ingredient in the popular French sauce called béarnaise. This herb also exhibits some potential medicinal properties and has been historically used as a digestive aid and to alleviate toothaches.
In conclusion, tarragons are aromatic, perennial herbs featuring narrow leaves, small flowers, and a distinctive flavor. French tarragon is the preferred variety due to its stronger taste, while Russian tarragon serves as a milder alternative. Their versatile use in various cuisines makes them a popular ingredient, particularly in French culinary traditions.
Common Misspellings for TARRAGONS
Etymology of TARRAGONS
The word "tarragon" comes from the French term "estragon", which was borrowed from the Medieval Latin word "tarchon", itself derived from the Greek word "drakon" meaning "dragon". The plant was given this name due to the belief that it had the ability to cure snakebites, as it was believed to possess powerful and mystical properties. Over time, the word evolved into "tarragon", and it now refers to the herb Artemisia dracunculus.
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