Lovage

Lovage (Ligusticum officinalis) is a shiny, smooth leaf herb native to southern Europe, Iran and Afghanistan, but now grown in many countries across the world. It looks somewhat similar to a large celery plant, and has a strange, pleasant but heavy aroma and a pungent, celery flavour. The leaves, stem, roots and seeds may all be used to flavour stocks, stews and soups when a meaty flavour is required. However, it is important not to add too much of this herb as it can soon overwhelm the foods with which it is combined.