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Fresh Lovage
Fresh Herbs

Fresh Lovage

Taste Profile Intense Celery, Yeasty, Savoury Umami, Citrus Zest, Mild Anise

A towering, old-world perennial that once stood guard in every cottage garden, lovage is the bold patriarch of the parsley family. With its large, dark green leaves and hollow stems, it possesses a flavour of remarkable intensity—often described as 'celery on steroids' with a distinct yeasty, meaty undertone. It is a pot-herb in the truest sense, capable of imparting a rich, stock-cube depth to soups and stews that no other green can replicate.

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Best for Freezing

Culinary Notes

Use with extreme caution; lovage is incredibly potent, and a single leaf can often flavour an entire pot of soup more effectively than a bunch of celery.

It has a natural affinity for potatoes and pork; try finely shredding a small amount into a potato salad or sprinkling it over a pork roast for a savoury lift.

The hollow stems can be candied like angelica or used as aromatic straws for a Bloody Mary.

It is often called the 'Maggi plant' in Europe due to its similarity in scent to the famous seasoning sauce; use it to bring a natural umami kick to vegetarian broths.

Health & Folklore

Historically revered as a digestive aid, used to settle the stomach and reduce bloating after a heavy meal.

Acts as a natural diuretic, helping to flush the kidneys and reduce water retention (hence its Latin name, Levisticum, referring to 'lifting').

Contains quercetin and limonene, compounds with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Keeper's Tip

Worthy Substitutes

Celery Leaves (mildest alternative), Celeriac Tops, A mix of Parsley and Celery Seeds, Maggi Liquid Seasoning.

Used in these Recipes

Rosół (Traditional Polish Chicken Soup)

Rosół (Traditional Polish Chicken Soup)