A collection of herbs that classically includes parsley, thyme and bay; although other herbs like rosemary and marjoram can be added, different regions vary the combination of herbs. Bouquet garni is available dried, tied in muslin bundles or in “teabag-like” sachets.
Fresh bouquet garni can be tied together with string for easy removal from the dish before serving.
How to Make a Bouquet Garni
This package of aromatic flavouring herbs is designed to be easily lifted from the pan and discarded at the end of cooking.
To make a bouquet garni, hold together 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme, 1 bay leaf, and 5-6 parsley stalks. Wind a piece of string around the herb stalks and tie them together securely, leaving a length of string to tie the bouquet garni to the pan handle.
Wind string around herb stalks. Herbs infuse ingredients with fresh aroma.
Bouquet garni, a French term, describes a bundle of parsley, a spring of fresh thyme and a bay leaf tied together to flavor broths, stocks and sauces. Sometimes peppercorns, a piece of leek or a celery stalk complete this bouquet. Traditionally herbs are wrapped in cheesecloth and secured with kitchen twine דף. Practically speaking, a coffee filter can easily replace the cheesecloth.
Bouquet garni can also be purchased ready-made in the spice section of supermarkets. Dried herbs and other aromatics are packed in bags, ready to be used at the start of the cooking process.