Region of Origin
Commodity:
Chervil
Description & Origin
Chervil is an herb in the parsley family that originated in the Caucus mountains of Western Asia and occurs wild throughout Europe. It has delicate lacy, fern-like leaves that are light green with a hint of yellow. One of the traditional French fines herbes, chervil is a tender and soft, most often used as a finishing herb. Chervil has a parsley-like flavor, but offers distinct notes of sweet lico...
Other Names
French Parsley
Health Benefits & Nutrition
Throughout history, chervil, primarily in its wild form, has been used as a diuretic, expectorant, and general healing tonic.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Foodservice Tips
Traditional Culinary Uses
Chervil is commonly used as a garnish for or last-minute addition to French dishes, but can be used in any recipe calling for herbs where a parsley or anise-like flavor is desired. It is part of the classic French soft herb combination fines herbes along with parsley, chives, and tarragon. This combo is often paired with seafood or egg, commonly omelets. Chervil loses its flavor when exposed to heat, so it is most flavorful when added to a dish at the last moment.
Flavor Pairings
Asparagus, Celery Root, Blood Orange, Fennel, Lemon, Poultry, Fish, Egg
How to Prepare
Before consumption, gently swish chervil in a bowl of cold water and let air dry on a towel. For a fine chop, roll leaves together and cut with a sharp knife. Chervil can also be torn apart by hand. The stems are tender and can be consumed, although the thicker stems can be removed to ensure a more delicate texture, if desired.
How to Store & Use in the Kitchen
Store chervil wrapped in a paper towel in a sealed bag or container in the refrigerator.
Fight Food Waste Tips for root to stem cooking
Incorporate extra chervil into compound butter, herb oil, or pesto that can be frozen for later use.
Warehouse Storage & Handling
Maintain these conditions for optimal short-term storage shelf life.*
IDEAL STORAGE TEMP:
32°F
RECOMMENDED TEMP STORAGE ZONE:
32-39°F (Cold Storage)
SUBJECT TO CHILLING INJURY:
No
RELATIVE HUMIDITY:
95-100%
PRODUCES ETHYLENE:
Yes-Low
SENSITIVE TO ETHYLENE:
Yes-High
ETHYLENE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Do not store near ethylene producing items. Ethylene exposure can worsen yellowing and cause decay
Quality Assessment
Chervil should be fresh with good form, free from decay. Some yellowing is normal and expected on chervil, as it is very sensitive to growing conditions and may develop yellow tips at the slightest sign of non-ideal weather conditions.
Important Handling Notes
Ensure storage at the proper temperature and away from ethylene producing items to prevent early decay. Handle gently, as this is a delicate herb.
Optimum Shelf Life
Depending on variety, conditions at harvest, and handling, chervil may last up to 2 weeks.
