Lemon Verbena: The Great NYC Hunt
So, you're a lemon verbena lover, huh? You've got exquisite taste, my friend. But let's be honest, finding this fragrant herb in the concrete jungle of NYC can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, or more accurately, a lemon leaf in a concrete canyon.
Where Oh Where Can My Lemon Verbena Be?
Don't despair, fellow herb enthusiast! While it might not be as readily available as your average bodega bagel, there are definitely places in this city where you can get your lemon verbena fix.
Your Local Greenmarkets: These are a fantastic starting point. While not every vendor will have it, some of the more specialized herb sellers might just have a stash of this golden treasure. Think of it as a mini-adventure every weekend! Just remember to bring a reusable bag, and maybe a picnic blanket to enjoy the fresh air while you browse.
Specialty Food Stores: Places like Fairway, Whole Foods, and even some of the upscale gourmet shops might carry dried lemon verbena. It's worth checking their spice sections, or even asking a knowledgeable staff member. Just be prepared to pay a premium for the convenience.
Online Shopping: If you're the impatient type (or simply hate crowds), online shopping is your friend. There are a plethora of online stores that specialize in herbs and spices. Just make sure to read reviews and check the shipping costs before you hit that "buy now" button.
Grow Your Own: Hear me out. If you've got even a tiny patch of sunlight, you can grow your own lemon verbena. It’s surprisingly low-maintenance and the reward of fresh, homegrown herbs is unparalleled. Plus, it's a great conversation starter for your green-thumbed friends.
Tips for Using Your Lemon Verbena
- Tea Time: It makes a delightful, refreshing tea.
- Culinary Adventures: Add a zesty twist to your cooking by infusing it in sugar, butter, or oil.
- Aromatic Bliss: Dry the leaves and use them in potpourris or sachets.
How To... Lemon Verbena FAQs
- How to dry lemon verbena: Tie small bunches of leaves together and hang them upside down in a warm, dry place.
- How to store lemon verbena: Once dried, store in an airtight container away from light.
- How to make lemon verbena tea: Steep a few leaves in hot water for 5-7 minutes. Add honey or lemon for extra flavor.
- How to use lemon verbena in cooking: Experiment with infusing it in sugar, butter, or oil. Add a few leaves to fish or chicken dishes.
- How to propagate lemon verbena: Take a cutting from a healthy plant and root it in water or soil.
So, there you have it! With a little effort, you can bring the sunny, citrusy goodness of lemon verbena into your NYC life. Happy hunting!
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.