Tarragon (estragon)

Roasted lamb shoulder in fragrant herb marinade is a true culinary masterpiece that combines tradition and an authorial approach. Tender lamb meat infused with the aroma of fresh herbs and spices becomes incredibly juicy due to prolonged marination and careful cooking. White wine adds refined notes, creating a harmonious bouquet of flavors. The caramelized crust formed at the end of cooking provides a crunchy texture that contrasts with the softness of the meat. This dish is perfect for a festive dinner or family celebration and can be served with roasted vegetables, fresh bread, or a refreshing yogurt and herb-based sauce. Each portion reveals the depth of flavors and highlights the art of preparing juicy, aromatic meat.

Timur Ismailov, chef of the Historia restaurant, shared the recipe with us.

The recipe is taken from the book "Holiday salads and appetizers. Very simple.

Baked pumpkin with spices is a cozy dish of European cuisine that embodies autumn warmth and harmony of flavors. Historically, pumpkin was often used in rustic recipes due to its nutrition and rich sweetness. In this version, it is infused with the aroma of ginger, tarragon, and mint, creating a complex yet refined bouquet. Cardamom adds an Eastern note while sugar syrup enhances the pumpkin's natural sweetness. Slow baking first under foil and then with butter allows for a caramelized crust that makes the dish even more appetizing. Served with coarse sea salt to balance sweet and spicy notes, this pumpkin is perfect as a side or standalone dish to warm the soul on cool days.

Carp with apples and tarragon is a refined dish of European cuisine that combines the sweet acidity of apples, a refreshing hint of lemon, and the pungent spice of tarragon. This recipe reflects culinary traditions where fruits and herbs are used to give fish a special depth of flavor. Baked in a sleeve, the carp retains its juiciness while the aromatic filling permeates its tender meat, creating a harmony of freshness and richness. This dish is perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, bringing warmth and coziness to home cooking. The finished carp takes on a golden hue, and its delicate, spicy aroma fills the home with an atmosphere of culinary art.

Shrimp ceviche with tarragon is an exquisite and refreshing dish that combines the freshness of seafood with aromatic herbs. The origins of ceviche trace back to Latin America, where it is traditionally prepared by marinating fish or seafood in citrus juice. In this version, shrimp acquire a zesty flavor thanks to lime, red onion, and chili pepper. They are complemented by crunchy vegetables – cucumbers, tomatoes, and avocado, while tarragon and cilantro add a unique herbal note to the dish. Ceviche is perfect for a summer dinner or festive table; it is served chilled to enjoy the richness of flavors and aromas. The lightness, freshness, and harmony of ingredients make this ceviche variant a true gastronomic masterpiece.

Vegetable salad with sour cream is a light and refreshing dish, perfect for a summer lunch or dinner. Its harmonious combination of fresh cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, crunchy radishes, and sweet peppers is complemented by the spicy greens of watercress and tarragon, creating a balance of vibrant flavors and textures. The dressing of sour cream and olive oil adds tenderness and softness to the salad, while sea salt enhances the natural taste of the vegetables. This dish is not only pleasant to taste but also rich in vitamins and nutrients, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals. Vegetable salad with sour cream is a versatile addition to main dishes or a standalone dish that offers freshness and enjoyment.

Creamy salmon steak with spinach is a refined dish where the tenderness of the fish harmonizes with the rich creamy texture and aromatic herbs. This recipe recalls culinary masterpieces of Mediterranean cuisine, where the simplicity of ingredients highlights their quality. Lime juice adds a light tang, white wine enhances the flavor, and tarragon and rosemary add a sophisticated spice. Searing in creamy and olive oil creates an appetizing crust, while spinach makes the dish light and balanced. Such a steak is perfect for both a romantic dinner and a festive feast, impressing with its rich and noble taste.

Ilya Cherkashin, chef of the Saviv restaurant, shared the recipe with us.

Millet risotto with pumpkin and shrimp is a unique gastronomic experience that combines Italian classic with unexpected ingredients. Millet adds softness and a nutty flavor to the dish, while sweet pumpkin harmonizes with the seafood taste of shrimp. The origins of risotto trace back centuries into Italy's culinary traditions, where slow cooking with broth creates a delicate texture. White wine adds a slight acidity, while parmesan and stracciatella contribute creamy richness. The dish is aromatic, velvety, and incredibly refined. It is served as an elegant main course or a vibrant accent for festive dinners, with tarragon bringing freshness and a spicy note. Risotto is best enjoyed immediately after preparation when its texture remains creamy and the aromas are fully revealed.

Baked chicken wings with tartar sauce are a harmony of crispy golden crust and tender, juicy meat complemented by a tangy French sauce. Tartar, traditionally associated with haute cuisine, gains a distinctive spicy note from jalapeños and tarragon, while pickles add a pleasant sourness. Worcestershire sauce enhances the depth of flavor, turning it into a gastronomic delight. Wings baked to perfection make an excellent choice for both friendly gatherings and cozy home dinners. This dish combines French elegance with the ease of everyday cooking, creating an unforgettable culinary impression.

Garlic salad with beetroot and celery is a vibrant dish of Russian cuisine with a rich flavor and spicy aroma. The combination of sweet boiled beets, piquant garlic, and fresh celery creates a rich taste palette, complemented by hints of tarragon and a light creamy texture of mayonnaise. This salad is not only tasty but also healthy as it contains many vitamins and antioxidants. Its roots trace back to traditional village recipes using simple and accessible ingredients. It is perfect as an independent snack or a side dish for meat dishes. Garlic adds a slight spiciness, while pumpkin seeds provide a crunchy texture. This salad is an excellent choice for lovers of rich and natural flavors.

The recipe was shared with us by the brand chef of the Gayane's restaurant, Gayane Breiova.

Buckwheat with tomatoes, pesto, and feta is a harmonious blend of Russian cuisine with modern Mediterranean notes. Buckwheat, traditionally popular in Russia, gains a new flavor thanks to creamy feta and aromatic pesto. Sweet cherry tomatoes add freshness, while tarragon provides a spicy green note. The dish is tender yet rich, with a pleasant balance of textures: the softness of buckwheat contrasts with the firm tomatoes and creaminess of cheese. It can be served warm or cold as a standalone dish or side. This is an excellent option for a light yet nutritious dinner that combines the simplicity of Russian traditions with the sophistication of Mediterranean cuisine.

Khatuna Kolbaya, owner of Saperavi Café, shared the recipe with us.