North Alabama Agriplex Teaches How to Cook With Herbs
CULLMAN – Recently, the North Alabama Agriplex held an informative and very delicious program, which taught all about herbs. The eager participants learned about many different herbs, but focused mainly on stevia, lemongrass, basil and oregano. Director Rachel Peinhardt Dawsey of the North Alabama Agriplex sent plants home with the students. She also shared savory recipes, demonstrated how to prepare them and offered everyone present a taste. Participants also created their own tea bags, using various herbs, which had been cut and dried as well.
One of the herbs talked about Tuesday night was lemongrass. Lemongrass was something with which most of the group wasn’t familiar. They were given lemongrass infused water and lemongrass tea to try and many were impressed with the flavor!
“Lemongrass grows a nice big plume on it,” Dawsey explained. “The part you actually use in cooking is the stalk. The leaves are used for tea. When cooking with the stalk, you have to get the back of a knife or a small hammer and crush it. By doing this, you release all the essential oils, which are really strong.”
Ms. Alice St. John, a volunteer for the Agriplex, gave an excellent demonstration using many different herbs and spices to create mouth-watering salsas and dips. The flavorful concoctions she made and served were simply amazing! Everyone in attendance wanted seconds and thirds!
The North Alabama Agriplex has hosted many interesting farming and agricultural events in the past and they promise to keep the good stuff coming in the years to come. They educate people of all ages and are a tremendous help to the community.
If you or someone you know would like to visit the Agriplex, they may do so by stopping by any time. The Agriplex is located at 1714 Tally Ho Street SW, Cullman, AL 35055. You may call them at 256-297-1044 or visit their webpage at www.agriplex.org.
This story was originally published in the October 6, 2014 issue of CullmanSense print edition
