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Pistou, a fragrance of the Provence region

August 16th 2010

pistou_2Originally published in the Journal de Montréal on September 9, 2007.

Vegetable soup with pistou, which is almost a meal in itself, is the pride of Provence. The term «pistou», often confused with the neighbouring and perhaps more well known Ligurian «pesto», means «crushed».

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Bay leaf – the symbol of victory and wisdom

August 14th 2010

bay-leaves_smallOriginally published in the Journal de Montréal on August 14, 2010.

Native to the Mediterranean region, the bay laurel is a perennial shrub with spearheaded leaves that release a very strong fragrance when crushed, as they are rich in essential oils. Bay or laurel leaves are an essential component of the “bouquet garni“, a blend of aromatic herbs that is used in a variety of recipes and removed before serving.

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How about a savory aphrodisiac?

August 7th 2010

SavoryOriginally published in the Journal de Montréal on August 7, 2010.

Savory is an aromatic perennial herb that originated in the Mediterranean region and it includes at least 15 species, of which Summer savory (Hortensis) and Winter savory (Montana) are the most common.

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All about Pesto

August 2nd 2010

Sauce PestoOriginally published in the Journal de Montréal on August 12, 2006.

For a Northern Italian like me, Pesto is serious business. Did you know that the original version, known as ‘Pesto alla Genovese’, is in the process of obtaining a Protected Designation of Origin by the European Union?

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Colourful and savoury chives

July 31st 2010

20_chivesOriginally published in the Journal de Montréal on July 31, 2010.

The chive is a bulbous plant that belongs to the Alliaceae family, along with onions, leeks, garlic and shallots. The exact origin of this aromatic herb remains unknown.

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Basil, a royal herb

July 24th 2010

basil_smallOriginally published in the Journal de Montréal on July 24, 2010.

Basil gets its name from the Latin word “Basilicum” and from the Greek term “Basilikos”, both of which mean “royal”. It’s certainly a fitting term, since this culinary herb demands royal treatment for its proper cultivation.

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Dill-icious leaves and seeds

July 17th 2010

DillOriginally published in the Journal de Montréal on July 17, 2010.

Dill, which is very popular in Eastern Europe, Russia and Scandinavia, produces leaves and seeds that are used as seasoning – not only in meats, fish and sauces but also in marinades, liqueurs and jams.

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