How to Use Parsley Stem for Garnish?

Parsley is an herb that is used in many culinary practices and traditions. It is known for its vibrant and fresh flavour and versatility in its use. The culinary uses of parsley mostly revolve around its leaves; thus, parsley stems are often subjected to being discarded. Most individuals do not know that the stem of parsley is certainly edible and can impart fresh and vibrant flavours to dishes.

Parsley stem is a ubiquitous herb that is more robust and fibrous than the leaves. This property makes it less tender than the leaves. It carries the kind of flavour that add herbaceous richness to the dishes. The crunchiness of parsley stems can also add to the texture of the dishes. Parsley stems are divided into two main types based on its leaf i.e., flat leaf and curly leaf. The flat leaf type is preferred most for garnishing as it has concentrated flavour and imparts smooth texture to the dish. Curly leaf parsley stems are also used in garnishing as they add to the visual appeal of the dish.

In the article below, we will discuss some of the creative ways in which parsley stem can be used and understand its valuable aspects in culinary practices.

How to Prepare Parsley Stems for Garnish?

It is important to prepare the parsley stems before using it for garnishing purposes. Following are the methods of preparing parsley stems for garnish.

Step # 1 – Washing

Herbs often contain mud and bacteria along with it. It is important to wash the parsley stems thoroughly and make sure no dirt or mud is left behind that often carries bacteria. Washing also removes the insecticides or pesticides over the herbs (if any). After thorough washing, rinse the stems and pat them with clean and dry cloth to drain it from excess moisture.

Step # 2 – Trimming

Parsley stems have rough and woody ends that must be trimmed. It is advised to trim an inch from the bottom aspect that is often the toughest part of the parsley stems.

Step # 3 – Peeling

Peeling is necessary only for certain varieties of parsley stems that often has thick and fibrous outer covering. Peeling of the parsley stems with a vegetable peeler will make it tender and easily edible in the dishes.

Step # 4 – Chopping or Slicing

This step depends on the individual’s preference or the intention of use. Finely chop or slice the parsley stems. Creative individuals can chop it into thin strips for a decorative garnish.

And ta-da! Parsley stems are ready for edible use.

What are some of the Creative Methods to Use Parsley Stems for Garnish?

Now that the parsley stems are prepared, lets elaborate on some of the creative ways to use parsley stems for a flavourful and visually appealing garnish.

1. Julienned Parsley Stems

It is the simplest way to use parsley stems i.e., to julienne them. This method includes making thin slices of parsley sticks that are equal in size to the match sticks. Julienne parsley sticks are then sprinkled over soups, curry, salads and mains to add a touch of creativity, greens and crunch.

2. Parsley Stem Confetti

Delicate and fine chopped tiny pieces of parsley stems create a confetti-like garnish that can be sprinkled over dishes. This technique especially works for individuals seeking a hint of parsley stems in risottos, grilled veggies or pastas.

3. Adding to Oils and Butters

Parsley stems impart rich herbaceous flavour can transfer its fresh and herbal flavour when put in a medium, such as butter and oil. This method starts by chopping parsley stems in fine pieces and warm them in melted better or olive oil. Once warmed enough, strain out the parsley stems and use the flavour infused oil to drizzle on the final dish for an aromatic touch and enhanced flavour.

4. Parsley Stem Pesto

Pesto is often made with basil leaves but making it with parsley stems is also a unique idea. This method starts by blending parsley stems with garlic, nuts, cheese and olive oil to create a flavourful pesto (green sauce). This pesto is then used as a garnish by drizzling it over fried or unfried vegetables, meats and fish.

5. Parsley Stem Curls

Get yourself ready for this elegant and eye-catching idea of parsley stems for garnish. Start off by cutting parsley stems into 3-inch lengths and take a sharp knife to make even and thin slices along the length of each piece but stop a short way before cutting all the way through the 3-inch length. Transfer the slices of parsley stems in a pot of ice water for a few minutes until it curls up. Here’s a beautiful garnish to be placed in plates and bowels for added delicacy.

6. Pickling

Pickling parsley stems adds a crunchy element and tangy taste to the dishes. Start off by preparing a pickling brine with water, vinegar, salt and sugar. Add parsley stems to the brine and let them marinate for a few hours. These parsley stems can be used as a garnish for tacos and sandwiches.

7. Garnish for Cocktails

Parsley stems are a delightful and surprising garnish for cocktails. Adding a sprig of the stem to a gin or a Blood Mary imparts freshness and herbaceous flavour to it. Parsley stems can also be used to stir drinks that will infuse its flavours into the drink as you stir and sip in between.

8. Parsley Stems in Soup

Parley stems are often made to float on a bowl of soup to add freshness and colour to it. It works best when made to float over clear soups or broths to create a striking contrast with the vibrant green parsley stems.

9. Grilled Meats and Fish to Garnish

Parsley stems are used to garnish grilled fish and meats for freshness and an herbaceous touch. Chop the parsley stems into thin slices or tiny pieces and arrange them around the grilled meat for added elegance and delicacy in the final presentation of the dish.

10. Sauce and Gravy

Parsley stems can enhance the flavour and nutritional profile of sauces and gravies. Add chopped parsley stems to stir in the sauce just before serving so that the texture is maintained.

How can Parsley Stems be combined with other garnishing ingredients?

Creative individuals can also combine parsley stems with other garnishing ingredients to add complexity and visual appeal to the final dish. Enlisted below are some of the ideas using which individuals can do wonders with parsley stems and other ingredients.

1. Mixed Herbs

Parsley stems can be combined with other fresh herbs such as dill or mint for a mixed herb garnish. It adds a variety of flavour and texture to the dish profile that will make everyone ask for the chef’s secret herbal ingredients.

2. Use of Edible Flowers

Edible flowers include pansies and nasturtium that are popular and stunning options for combination with parsley stems for garnish. The colour and smoothness of flower petals adds vibrancy and delicacy to the texture that enhances the contrast when combined with crispy texture of parsley in the garnish.

3. Parsley with Citrus

Individuals seeking a zestful option must consider parsley with citrus. The combination of parsley with citrus creates a refreshing and zestful outcome. The bright colours and enriching flavours of citrusy foods such as lime or orange adds to the herbaceous flavours of parsley. This combination is particularly popular and favoured for salads and dishes of the seafoods. 

4. Green Sprouts

Adding young green shoots and sprouts to parsley stems is a trendy yet nutritious option for many dishes. The options include arugula, radish greens and beet that grants flavourful garnish to elevate the visual appeal and nutritious profile of any dish.

People Also Ask

What is the storage method of parsley stems to keep them fresh for garnishing later?

To keep the parsley stems fresh, keep them in a glass of water inside a refrigerator. Another method to store includes wrapping parsley stems in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag in a refrigerator.

What is the benefit of keeping parsley stems?

Parsley stems are often discarded since most individuals do not know of its culinary uses. Parsley stems must not be discarded to reduce food waste. It also adds unique flavours and texture to dishes along with enhancing its nutritional profile.

Conclusion

Parsley is an herb that is used in many culinary practices and traditions. It is known for its vibrant and fresh flavour and versatility in its use. The culinary uses of parsley mostly revolve around its leaves; thus, parsley stems are often subjected to being discarded. It carries the kind of flavour that add herbaceous richness to the dishes. The crunchiness of parsley stems can also add to the texture of the dishes. Before using the parsley stems, it is important to prepare them by following easy steps that include washing the stems thoroughly, trimming its ends, peeling off its fibrous covering and chopping or slicing it for garnishing.

Parsley stems can be used creatively in many methods of garnishing that involves tactics as in chopping or slicing of the parsley stems, the infusion of its flavours in warmed oils and butters, enhancing the flavour of cocktails and grant an elegant presentation when served alongside grilled meat and fish. Parsley stems can also be combined with other fresh herbs, citrusy foods as lime or orange and green sprouts for enhanced flavours and nutritional benefits.