Get ready to ditch the lawnmower and embrace the wild side of “grasses” on a Dutch farm! Forget what you thought you knew; on several charming farms across the Netherlands, “grasses” aren’t just for grazing or manicured lawns. They’re a ticket to a delightful outing, a burst of creativity, and a touch of natural elegance for your home.

The Pure Joy of Picking Your Own Grasses

Imagine a sunny afternoon, strolling through fields where plumes of all shapes and sizes sway gently in the breeze. This isn’t just any farm; it’s a pick-your-own paradise where ornamental grasses become your personal treasures. The sheer pleasure of selecting each feathery frond, each architectural stalk, or each fluffy bunny tail is a meditative experience. You’ll find yourself mesmerized by the way the light catches their delicate textures, the subtle rustle they make, and the sheer variety of forms.

Whether you’re a solo adventurer seeking a moment of peace, a couple on a quirky date, or a family creating memories, hand-picking grasses is an absolute blast. Little ones will adore the tactile sensation of the soft plumes, while adults can appreciate the art of composition. With each snip of your shears, you’re not just collecting foliage; you’re gathering inspiration, texture, and a unique piece of Dutch farm life. It’s an activity that reconnects you with nature, offers a gentle workout, and fills your basket (and heart!) with natural beauty.

Bringing the Farm Charm Home: Decorative Grasses

Most often, the “grasses” you’ll find for picking on Dutch farms are glorious ornamental varieties, perfect for adding texture and movement to your home decor.

Suggestions for Decoration:

  • Bouquet Booster: Integrate your freshly picked grasses into a mixed floral bouquet. Their airy nature provides a beautiful contrast to more substantial flowers, adding depth and a touch of wild elegance. Think fluffy bunny tails (Lagurus ovatus) alongside tulips, or a dramatic pampas grass plume towering over hydrangeas.
  • Minimalist Marvel: Sometimes, less is more! A simple handful of tall, architectural grasses like miscanthus or fountain grass in a slender vase can create a stunning, modern focal point.
  • Dried Arrangements: Many ornamental grasses dry beautifully, preserving their charm for months, even years. Hang them upside down in a cool, dry place for a few weeks, then arrange them in a ceramic pot or basket for long-lasting, rustic decor. They’re perfect for adding a touch of nature to any season.
  • Wreaths and Garlands: Weave thinner grass stalks into wreaths or garlands for a natural, earthy touch, especially lovely for autumn or winter decorations.

Beyond Beauty: Embracing Edible & Aromatic Grasses (Hello, Lemongrass!)

While decorative grasses are a treat for the eyes, on some specialty farms, you might also discover fragrant herbal grasses – like the wonderfully zesty lemongrass! This versatile grass, with its bright, citrusy aroma, is a game-changer in the kitchen and beyond.

At Home: Lemongrass Culinary Creations

Once you’ve got your bundles of aromatic lemongrass home, the possibilities are endless!

For Herbs: Lemongrass Ginger Tea

A soothing and invigorating brew, perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients:

  • 2-3 fresh lemongrass stalks, tough outer layers removed, thinly sliced
  • 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 4 cups hot water
  • Honey or maple syrup to taste (optional)
  • Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Lightly bruise the sliced lemongrass and ginger to release their flavors.
  2. Place the lemongrass and ginger in a heatproof teapot or mug.
  3. Pour the hot water over them.
  4. Let steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on desired strength.
  5. Strain the tea into cups. Add honey/maple syrup and a lemon wedge if desired. Enjoy the refreshing aroma and taste!

For Cocktails: Lemongrass Gin Fizz

A fragrant and refreshing cocktail that highlights the bright notes of lemongrass.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz gin
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz lemongrass simple syrup (see below)
  • Soda water
  • Ice
  • Lemongrass stalk or lime wheel for garnish

Lemongrass Simple Syrup: Combine 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 2-3 thinly sliced lemongrass stalks (bruised) in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer, stirring until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes. Strain and cool.

Instructions:

  1. Fill a shaker with ice. Add gin, lime juice, and lemongrass simple syrup.
  2. Shake well until thoroughly chilled.
  3. Strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
  4. Top with soda water.
  5. Garnish with a fresh lemongrass stalk or a lime wheel. Sip and savour!

Two Cooking Recipes with Lemongrass:

1. Thai-Inspired Lemongrass Chicken Skewers

These skewers are packed with flavour and perfect for grilling or pan-frying.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 fresh lemongrass stalks, tough outer layers removed, finely minced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine minced lemongrass, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and vegetable oil. Mix well.
  2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  3. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers.
  4. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  5. Grill the chicken skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred.
  6. Serve hot with rice and a fresh salad.

2. Creamy Coconut Lemongrass Shrimp Soup (Quick Tom Kha-style)

A comforting, aromatic, and easy-to-make soup that’s full of Thai-inspired flavours.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 fresh lemongrass stalks, tough outer layers removed, bruised and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1-inch piece ginger, thinly sliced
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  2. Add the bruised lemongrass pieces and sliced ginger. Sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the broth and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it gently infuse for 10-15 minutes. This allows the lemongrass and ginger to release their full flavour.
  4. Strain the broth to remove the lemongrass and ginger pieces (or leave them in for extra flavour, but remove before serving). Return the broth to the pot.
  5. Add the shrimp and mushrooms to the simmering broth. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
  6. Stir in the fish sauce and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately.

So, the next time you hear “grasses” on a Dutch farm, think beyond the lawn. Think beauty, aroma, flavour, and a whole lot of fun!