Pronounce it: chur-vil

Chervil is an annual herb that looks similar to flat leaf parsley but with a finer stem and more delicate, almost wilting leaves.

It has a faint aniseed flavour and is one of the herbs used to make up the French herb mixture fines herbes. It is also reputed to aid digestion when turned into a tea.

Availability

At its peak from May until September.

Prepare it

Chervil loses its flavour easily, either by drying the herb or by exposing it to too much heat so it should be added at the end of cooking or sprinkled over food finely chopped and fresh.

Store it

Keep in a sealed bag in the fridge for up to a week.

Cook it

Use chervil to add a punch of herby flavour to mild-flavoured chicken and seafood or as a garnish atop steamed baby vegetables.

Alternatives

Try parsley.