The history of balsamic vinegar from Modena can be traced back to ancient Rome. However, it wasn't until the Middle Ages that the artisanal production methods and the unique flavor profile we recognize today began to take shape. Passed down through generations, the traditional techniques for crafting this delicacy involve careful selection of grape varieties, slow fermentation, and aging in wooden barrels.
The production of balsamic vinegar from Modena is a labor of love, requiring meticulous attention to detail. The process starts with grape must, which is simmered slowly to concentrate its flavors. The cooked must is then fermented and aged in a series of wooden barrels, each made from different woods like oak, cherry, chestnut, mulberry, and juniper. This aging process, which can last anywhere from a few years to several decades, contributes to the complexity and depth of flavor.
One of the most enchanting aspects of balsamic vinegar from Modena is its extraordinary taste profile. Its dark, syrupy consistency gives way to a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and slightly acidic flavors. Notes of caramel, fig, cherry, and a hint of oak tantalize the palate, making it a versatile condiment that can enhance both savory and sweet dishes.
Beyond its delightful taste, balsamic vinegar from Modena also offers several health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, which help protect against cell damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, it may aid in digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and contribute to heart health. As with any food, moderation is key, but incorporating a drizzle of this elixir into your meals can offer both flavor and potential health advantages.
Balsamic vinegar from Modena is a versatile ingredient that complements an array of culinary creations. Its sweet and sour flavor pairs wonderfully with salads, roasted vegetables, and grilled meats. Use it as a glaze for poultry or fish, a dressing for caprese salad, or a finishing touch on fresh berries and vanilla ice cream. The possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination.
Conclusion: Balsamic vinegar from Modena is a culinary gem that captivates the senses and elevates dishes to new heights. Its rich history, artisanal production process, unique flavor profile, and health benefits make it a true gastronomic treasure. So, embrace the allure of this exquisite elixir and let balsamic vinegar from Modena grace your kitchen, turning every meal into a remarkable dining experience.
This very dark concentrated liquid is commonly made from crushed grape juice making it thick and sweet to taste. Most chefs and upscale restaurants use this intensely flavored vinegar not just in salad dressings but in almost all sorts of ways. It can also be a great addition to steaks, fruits and other dishes.
Balsamic vinegar has a lot of things to tell you. Read on and learn everything you need to know.
Balsamic vinegar originally produced in Italy locally known as aceto balsamico. It has three common types:
Balsamic Vinegar of Modena is less expensive and exclusively produced from either Modena or Emilia region. It is made from grape must with wine vinegar twist.
The Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena and Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Reggio Emilia are considered aged as they are made from reduced grape must that has lived for several years, hence the name.
Aged balsamic vinegar has rich, thick and slightly sweet juices but they contain no balsam, a fragrant herb used for medicinal, perfume and cosmetic preparations. The term balsam or balsamico only means balsam-like.
The thick balsamic vinegar is like balsam in the sense that it has the ability to restore health, well-being, and strength. In addition, it is like balsam because it is curative means it can able to cure certain illness.
Grape must is the main ingredient that makes this intensely flavored liquid become the most sublime of all vinegar. With all the skins, stems and seeds of the freshly crushed grapes, rest assured you can have high-quality balsamic vinegar you will love.
Making must provide a high content of glucose giving a variety of sweet cuisines that comes in various shades. No wonder why regular balsamic vinegar tastes so sweet instead of unpleasantly sour. It is thick and typically dark in color as well.
However, you can able to cook such thing at high pressure to prevent caramelization. What you will get then is the vinegar in golden color with a very gentle flavor.
Nothing in this world will last forever, as they say. How long the balsamic vinegar will last then? There are a few things we need to consider.
● Storage ConditionWhen it comes to storage condition, it is better to store the bottled vinegar in a cool, dry place. Make sure to place them away from direct sunlight as heat and light can affect the taste. The room temperature shouldn’t be too hot to maintain its rich flavor.
Light or white balsamic vinegar may change color probably from white to dark and from gold to a deep amber color. When you see this process don’t worry that much as it doesn’t affect the flavor or taste of the vinegar in any way. You can use balsamic products at its best when consumed within three months but best quality products such as QO balsamic vinegar will last about three years.
The good thing about this traditional syrup is that it can be stored indefinitely. Once you open the bottle, oxygen cannot affect the product. When you see matters that settle to the bottom of the vinegar, it’s normal and can’t harm anyone. Always keep them refrigerated after opening.
Aged balsamic vinegar has grown in popularity. You can find this secret ingredient helpful in what you eat every day. It is essential to know what are you going to use it for as this can help in figuring out what’s the best vinegar to buy.
Here are some of its useful ways:
● Salad DressingsEven a small dash of liquid can add flavor to dishes. You don’t need to buy more ingredients for the food to taste good. Unlike other dressings, traditional balsamic provides a high level of nutritional value in a single serving. If you are on a strict diet, live life with balsamic vinegar!
]]>Salads are one of the best foods you can find that burps you quickly without letting you spend too much. It is commonly made from farm-fresh ingredients such as vegetables and fruits which are considered to be of high nutritional value.
However, many salads lose their taste and destroy various health benefits due to the dressings added in. Here you’ll learn how to make homemade salad dressings with all the health!
Avoid foods with empty calories, fake sugars, and heavy fats if you want to create a healthy salad at your own pace. Go for fresh leafy greens and vegetables with a sprinkle of nuts or seeds on the top. Make sure to clean your ingredients well as you will be eating them raw. Use well-selected fruits as well together with tomatoes and other goods you want to add.
One best thing to put up in your salad and is a great alternative to commercial dressing is olive oil. Gourmet olive oil contains fats that are dietary healthy, antioxidants, has strong anti-inflammatory properties and is great for people aiming to lose weight. Unlike traditional dressings, a splash of extra virgin olive oil can help you eat your recipe without guilt.
Adding tons of unwanted fat and empty calories to what could otherwise be a healthy meal are useless. QO balsamic vinegar can also be a great alternative to a salad dressing that does not provide any sort of nutrition. It contains beneficial antioxidants, provides no fat and offers great flavor. A small amount goes a long way on salads and will definitely take your life far enough.
Salad dressings taste good when you add fat. But pouring a fatty dressing rather than a fat-free dressing is different. A serving of about one-third of avocado is enough to add a creamy texture while giving moisture to the greens. Like olive oil, this fruit is considered a healthy fat that helps the body absorb nutrients.
One other healthy creamy thing in the world is yogurt. Thicker dressing does not have to call for heavy creams; yogurt is enough to keep the same consistency without giving out bad fat. It can also help in increasing the protein intake the healthy way. If you love the creamy, thick texture of the salad dressing, this is going to be the best pick.
Italian olive oil is great but seasonings can also be a great addition to your salad dressings as it can add flavor in just a few pinches. Add a pinch of salt blended with a teaspoon of ginger and herbs to turn boring dressings to life without ruining nutrition. Adding black pepper can also aid digestion, help weight loss and slow down aging.
Go for natural sweeteners like raspberries, pears and tart fruits. All you have to do is to squeeze their juice and mix them thoroughly before adding them up to a dressing. Make sure not to get those big chunks that could make overpowering bite. You can also use honey and maple syrup instead.
One of the best ways to balance the taste between your dressing and your salad ingredients is to do a tasting. Taste your dressing right before you cover it to your salad to avoid ruining the whole dish. Sometimes it is late for people to realize they made something too salty, oily or tangy. This could lead to adding more ingredients over and over again than what originally needed.
You can use salad shakers or simply mason jars to mix your salad dressing perfectly. This can help you skip all the complicated measuring and is an ideal way to get your dressing right at home in no time. Well, it is good to do the mixing in a bowl but chances are you won’t get the mix that perfect.
We only live once and taking good care of our body is one of the best ways to live life to the fullest. It is better not to let our body eat with something waste and unhealthy.
Salads are considered to be a truly healthy meal. You can make it even healthier when you take a mindful consideration to its dressings. Since olive oil and balsamic vinegar are some of the best picks, consider to have Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Gift Set right in your table!]]>Studies show that residents in an Italian town and other Mediterranean countries have the key to a long life as most of them have hit an incredible age bracket. The secret? Plant-based diets in general.
But what they eat is not about fruits and veggies at all. This is what you will be learning today.
Mediterranean diet from the name itself is all about the traditional healthy living habits of the Mediterranean people including Spain, France, and Greece and of course, Italy. The diet has a range of definitions. Generally, it is about making fresh veggies, fruits and healthy fats like olive oil a big part in every day’s carves.
Foods like cereals and fish also come in moderation. Meats and dairy foods are part of the diet too but in the low intake. This diet has been linked with health the whole lot.
Eat More:
Eat in Moderation:
Eat Rarely:
Eat Never:
Fruits: ½ to 1 cup, three servings daily.
Vegetable: 1 cup of raw vegetables or ½ cup cooked; three servings daily.
Olive Oil: 1 to 4 tablespoon daily.
Fish: Three servings a week. Salmon, tuna and other fish with a higher level of omega-3 are much desired.
Legumes: Legumes such as beans and peas are served three times a week.
Nuts: To be served three times a week with about ¼ cup per serving. Raw and unsalted walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds are the most common.
Starch: Bread, whole grains, potatoes, and cereals are some kinds of starch that are served three to six times daily.
Dairy/Poultry: Go for fat-free milk, cheese and yogurt and these will be served three times a week. Eggs can be served with no specified servings but in moderation.
Meat: About three ounces per servings which will be served three times weekly.
Wine: Four to six ounces a day. However, drinking wine is optional.
Mediterranean diet provides a lot of benefits and advantages. Here are some of them.
Considering a Mediterranean diet in your daily meals can greatly reduce the risk of heart disease. The incident of having heart problems is lowered in the Mediterranean border as it provides positive effects on cardiovascular factors such as cholesterol and high blood pressure.
As you age, you’ll get strong bones and muscles due to all the abundant nutrients, minerals and vitamins provided by the Mediterranean diet you consume. Records show that seniors have a reduced risk of bone disease by up to 70 percent and are much more agile as they reach their retirement.
Eating healthy fats such as Frantoio Muraglia olive oil can boost brain power and prevent dementia as well as cognitive decline. Considering the Mediterranean diet every day can give you sharp mind and protect you from experiencing memory, language and thinking problems especially when becoming aged.
Following this kind of traditional eating plan can protect you from developing cancer such as breast cancer, liver, colorectal, prostate cancer, and any other cancer-related mortality. Living life following this kind of eating habits can help prevent the development of dangerous diseases people are keeping fighting for.
Eating fruits and veggies more than anything else is always good in your skin. It provides an abundance of vitamin E and antioxidants for skin dehydration and nourishment. Skin is one of the most important parts of the body that humans want to be glowing and radiant. Mediterranean diet can help a lot with that.
Beautiful places can make you relax. Sometimes, foods work the same too. Mediterranean lifestyle can give a positive impact on your health as you will be living without guilt. This will give you a light feeling, more upbeat, more energetic and refreshed. You can fight off chronic stress incredibly which can damage your mood very badly.
Following a Mediterranean diet can help people live much longer, healthier and happier. Life is short and if you won’t take good care of your body, you’ll make it even shorter.]]>Now, apart from the goodness we discussed just now, there are several health benefits associated with Balsamic vinegar. We today are listing top benefits that this magical ingredient may have on you- continue to read and know your beloved vinegar ever better-
1. Improves Skin Health
Who doesn’t love a porcelain skin? Smooth and supple skin, free from blemishes and acne scars is the dream of zillions out there. If you too are one, then thick balsamic vinegar can be of help- it contains acetic acid, antimicrobial compounds and antioxidants that improve skin quality over time.
2. Supports Digestion
Another benefit of balsamic digestion is the fact that it promotes healthy digestion. The acetic acid present in the ingredient improves and maintains digestive health.
3. Helps in Weight Loss
Oh yes- many people have realized that adding balsamic vinegar in morning meal helps them feel full, thus leading to less calorie consumption. So if you are a fan of this ingredient, brace yourself- you can soon achieve your ideal body look.
4. Treating wounds
Wounds pain like crazy and demand immediate attention. Products like balsamic vinegar have been used since ages to treat wounds, as they have antiviral and antifungal properties. However, this can’t be deemed as a solid claim and requires more research.
5. Reduces Blood Sugar
When consumed as a part of meal, products like Aceto Balsamico di Modena helps to avoid the blood sugar spikes that occur after you finish your food.
Hope these surprising benefits of balsamic vinegar of Modena will make you like it even more now. If you wish to order finest balsamic vinegar, explore our website- you’ll find several exclusive flavors that are inspiring and must-haves. Start discovering now!]]>Energy is produced when oxidation takes place in the human body. This energy prohibits the creation of free radicals that are known for damaging cell membranes. Moreover, they also lead to premature aging that can adversely affect your arterial walls. The antioxidants found in balsamic vinegar can naturally destroy free radical preventing your cells from damage. Moreover, balsamic vinegar also slows down the aging process.
The grapes used to prepare balsamic vinegar comprise of a bioflavonoid namely quercetin that has antioxidant properties. Moreover, they also have a rich Vitamin C content. The vinegar thus helps in strengthening your immune system which fights inflammation, infection, and some even say it helps to combat cancer.
Balsamic vinegar has extremely low saturated fat and cholesterol levels; it improves your overall vitality and nurtures a healthy heart. Alternating salad dressings with balsamic vinegar will lead to a healthy heart since fats will not be deposited in your blood stream. Moreover, the sodium density of balsamic vinegar is extremely low which may lead to reduced blood pressure with improved cardiac health.
Balsamic vinegar has been used since decades for relieving body pains. Migraine patients who incorporate balsamic vinegar in their diet have observed a significant decline in pain. Moreover, it is also used as a natural anti-bacterial and anti-viral agent for the treatment of bruises, wounds, and infections.
Balsamic vinegar comprises of polyphenols that help in stimulating the pepsin enzyme present in the human body. This enzyme is responsible for the breakage of proteins into amino acids. Moreover, it also expedites the process of amino acid absorption in the intestines which ultimately helps in building and repairing cells, harmonizing your body’s vitality.
Balsamic vinegar is readily used as a salad dressing that is considered to be a great substitute for oil-based salad dressings such as mayonnaise. The vinegar is obtained from grapes, thus the sugar content is natural which makes it a preferred choice of weight watchers. Moreover, the vinegar has a tendency to keep you full for longer controlling your food cravings.
According to studies, regular intake of three to four teaspoons of balsamic vinegar can help in enhancing your insulin sensitivity. With improved insulin sensitivity, your chances of controlling diabetes increases substantially.
Balsamic vinegar helps in the absorption of essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium in the human body through the stimulation of pepsin and acetic enzymes. The minerals are known for improving bone health and muscle strength.
If you like like to purchase QO Balsamic Vinegar please click here, thank you
]]>Mediterranean people have always held the olive tree in high regard and olive oil has been essential in economy, agriculture and trading. Crete was one of the most important areas in olive oil history and it still is one of the major locations to produce olives and olive oil.
Of course nowadays people can get olive oil directly in stores. They can choose between extra virgin olive oil , and more distinct varieties, like scented olive oil (truffle, basil, garlic, lemon, etc.). There are several different types of Extra Virgin Olive Oil: on the one hand you have the Blends and on the other Monocultivars such as: Arbequina ,Picual, Frantoio, Barnea, Cobransosa, Coratina, and the list goes on and on).
Minoans are said to be among the first people to benefit from economic and agricultural abundance thanks to the incredible value of olive oil, they used it in many ways in their daily lives. Olive oil was used as soap, medicine, protection for fragile surfaces, ointment and scent base and it was also used for lighting, tanning, and of course, in cuisine.
The Origins of Olive Trees
It is unclear where olive trees originated exactly. While some argue that they appeared in Turkestan and Iran in ancient times, others say that they must have appeared in multiple places at once. The truth is that they have been documented in Levant (Lebanon and Syria), Palestine (Israel and Jordan) and Anatolia (Turkey) around the same time.
By the time Greeks took over the peninsula, North Africa, Egypt and the eastern Mediterranean were all cultivating olive trees. Ancient Greeks had strong ties with the olive tree – it was a symbol of victory, wisdom and peace. It is still widely known that the olive branch symbolizes peace and that the Olympic Games winners received olive wreaths as a sign of victory. In addition, it also appeared as a motif on jewelry and vases, not to mention that it was used in religion and food.
Olive trees and consequently olive oil eventually made their way to the ancient Greek colonies, in parts of France and Spain, as well as the Black Sea. By 600 BCE, olive oil practically sustained ancient trading. Later, the romans started copying the Greeks in many ways, and this includes the use of olive oil. However, they did not engage in olive tree cultivation, but limited themselves to trading with Spain for it. Only after the Roman Empire conquered Greece did they start cultivating olive trees in Italy.
Olive Oil after the Dark Ages
Olive cultivation dropped for a whole millennium after the Roman Empire collapsed and the Dark Ages arrived in Western Europe, but Byzantium continued to produce it in the place that is now known as Turkey. The Middle Ages saw a rise in use and popularity for olive oil, but not as much as it used to be.
Olive oil history ends in the New World, where it was taken in the 1500s AD. Olive trees are currently cultivated preponderantly in places like Greece, Chile, Mexico, Argentina, California, Uruguay and Peru. It has gained gastronomical popularity, especially in recent years, as it has become the preferred oil for cooking, salad dressings and others. It is also used in beauty regimens, as a hair conditioner, skin conditioner and makeup remover.
To read more about Olive Oil click here
]]>Avoid transparent or very light colored bottles. Light is one of the biggest enemies of olive oil (heat is the other one).Dark bottles offer and extra protection against UV rays which damage olive oil in an irreparable way.
When properly stored and kept away from heat and light an olive oil will preserve its characteristics for about 2 years. This also depends on the cultivar (type of olives) used to produce the oil.
Some varietals or cultivars will maintain their essence for a longer period, the life curve of a Picual or a Coratina is longer than the one of an Arbequina, this is due to the polyphenol count each varietal has. The higher the polyphenol count, the longer the shelf life (when properly stored). It doesn’t mean one is better than the other one, it means it has different characteristics. But this is a different subject that at the moment we leave for next time.
This is sometimes overlooked by distracted customers: the label must read Extra Virgin Olive Oil. The fact that it says Extra Virgin means that the acidity of the oil (amount of fatty acids per 100 grams of oil) is between 0.1% and 0.8%. Those are the parameters set by the International Olive Oil Council.The lower the acidity, the higher the quality (more about acidity here).
There is an enormous difference between a commercial olive oil and an Estate olive oil. Commercial brands that you are used to see and read on shelves of most supermarkets don’t even know how to make olive oil .They buy the oil as a commodity, bottle it and sell it. Oils that you think are from Spain or Italy...I’m afraid most of the times they are not, they are just bottled there and the oil may come from Tunisia, Turkey, Morocco or any other place.
Buying a DOP oil (European Denomination of Origin certification) gives you some assurance of the quality but the best thing is to choose an Estate oil.
The Estate Olive Oils are the real Artisan products with a capital “A”.
Your regular supermarket around the corner is not the best place where to buy a bottle of oil and that is a fact. The constant exposure of the oil to fluorescent light causes permanent damage to the oil, but above all, supermarkets tend to carry commercial brands only, and this is because from the same supplier they buy pasta, rice, vinegars, and a thousand more products, they also buy oil regardless the quality….it’s just a matter of sales margins.
Independent gourmet shops and online shops are the best places where to buy good olive oil. To shop for high quality extra virgin olive oil click on link here.
Buon Appetito !
]]>Density of a balsamic vinegar is an important variable when defining the quality of the product. We are talking about natural balsamics with no thickening agents.You will find balsamic vinegars on grocery store shelves which are as liquid as water, but a good balsamic vinegar needs to be viscous, dense and smooth. Density is given by the ratio of 1 litre of the initial product (35.19 fl.oz) to 1 kg (35.27 ounces) of the final finished product. In other words, the density is the result of the amount of liquid evaporation that occurs during the period of aging of the vinegar. If a balsamic vinegar has a 1.33 density, this means it weighs 1.33 kilograms for every 1 litre.Therefore the percentage of grape-must will be higher than the one of liquid on the final product making it a higher quality balsamic than the ones with lower density.
Producers of industrial-grade balsamic add sugar, caramel and/or other additives to make it look darker and denser, make sure you always read the back label for extra information of the product you intend to buy. A good balsamic vinegar has to be FREE of any kind of additives, preservatives, coloring, caramel, sugar and water (yes, even water) most of the so called balsamic you will find at your regular grocery store have water, sugar, caramel, coloring and cheap wine vinegar, basically you are paying for nothing. Like the saying goes, good things in life come at a price, and Balsamic vinegar is no exception.
Go ahead and try it out -- tilt the bottle sideways and make sure the vinegar moves slowly, smoothly and sticks to the glass like in the picture above. Remember to always read the label !
Click here to order high density all natural balsamic vinegar
But off-the-beat Italy is just as charming as the more famous regions. These areas are not really "undiscovered"; they just tend to be more peaceful, less crowded and equally beautiful. Because it would take pages and pages to cover all the incredible attractions of Italy, we have selected only 5 such regions for this article.
Find Your Path in Off-the-Beat Italy
If you know anything about Modena, you are already aware of the fact that food in Modena is exquisite. Anything you order will tickle your senses and strike your gourmet sensibilities, whether it’s ham, “tortellini in brodo”, or any other magnificent dish. So, precisely because Modena cuisine is that special, there are some specific dishes that you absolutely cannot miss while visiting Modena.
Tortellini or Tortelloni is a kind of pasta shaped like a ring and stuffed with beef, spinach and ricotta cheese or ham. Tortellini have gone beyond Modena cuisine and made their way into traditional Italian cuisine and even several other cuisines all over the world. They are usually served in a light chicken broth (this is typical from Modena, see picture below) or may also be served with a good tomato sauce. Anyone can now enjoy the tiny pasta also known as “Venus belly button”. Modena even has a festival in September dedicated to it : the Traditional Tortellino Festival.
Another delicacy Modena offers to international cuisine is balsamic vinegar, which is now widely used all across the globe by the fanciest chefs and all other gourmet foodies around the world. Not everyone knows that balsamic vinegar is obtained from cooking grape must and seasoning it in wooden barrels for long periods of time. Balsamic vinegar not only adds taste to food, but it also acts as a perfect digestive. To read more about balsamic vinegar go here. To shop high density all natural balsamic vinegar click link here
Parmesan (or Parmigiano-Reggiano, if you want to get technical) is actually originally made in the region of Modena. It’s quite a sizeable chunk of cheese with a taste that is both powerful and salty and which only gets better with time (just like wine), preferably after two years from making and seasoning. It is said to have been brought from France by monks in the Middle Ages and the religious fervor is still not lost on the dairymen who make it nowadays.
Famously originating from Modena, Zampone, and its “cousin” Cotechino di Modena appeared in the beginning of the 16th century out of the necessity to preserve meat. It is essentially a pig’s trotter that has been stuffed with a ground mix of pork chunks, as well as the outer skin, called cotenna. Condiments and spices can be added, such as nutmeg, cloves, pepper or cinnamon.
Food in Modena is not always lean and low on calories, but it is always delicious. Modena prosciutto is a perfect example of this. Modena prosciutto is made out of pig thighs that are sliced very thin and seasoned with a top secret ingredient that remains undisclosed (it’s actually said to be the fresh mountain air from the Apennines) that ultimately gives this special meat product its distinct flavor.
We have to thank Modena for giving us Lambrusco wine. Either rosé or ruby, dry or semi-dry, this sparkling wine is elegant and delicious and it goes particularly well with meat or tortellini.
It is all of the above and much more that make Modena a veritable synonym for good food. Don’t miss out on any of the delicacies it has to offer and make sure to take the time to thoroughly savor every bite.
Buon Appetito !
]]>Acidity levels are determined mostly by the harvest and the processing care and techniques. There are different factors that will determine the level of acidity for an EVOO such as: the amount of time between harvesting the olives and processing them, careless harvesting and extraction methods which would damage the fruit and cause oxidation, lack of cleanliness of the processing equipment, and even fruit fly infestation.
Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oils are the ones with an acidity between 0.1 and 0.2 % .Most likely you will not find these at a regular store. There are very few oils with such a low acidity, 0.1% represents the best you can get.
The majority of the brands sold at an average store (the so called commercial brands) will have an acidity between 0.4 and 0.7%. These oils will never show the acidity level on their labels because that is the last thing the brand would want to indicate.
FACTS:
Click the link here to shop for low acidity extra virgin olive oil
Buon Appetito !
]]>
Qualitative and affordable, Italian food, from breakfast to dinner, provides a versatile range of tasty temptations one shouldn’t miss when visiting this spectacular country. Among memorable sceneries, intricate architecture and significant monuments, you will effectively grasp this nation’s influential culture through its eating habits. Experiencing the best food in Italy in its most culinary rich cities will surely provide you veritable respites of savory gratification.
]]>Now that you are about to begin your exciting journey with the Mediterranean lifestyle, it’s time to cut back, or even better, say goodbye to soda, red meat, processed food, and sweets, just to name a few. We have made a list for you to help you get started on the Mediterranean Diet. Also to keep you focused inside the supermarket and not wander to the not-so-healthy food aisles.
Olive Oil
Monounsaturated fats and Omega 3 fatty acids, which are found in olive oil, are great for the heart. So throw out your butter and margarine in the fridge, and start cooking your meals using only the best quality olive oil.
Fresh Fish
Pick fatty fish, like salmon or tuna. You can cook them in so many delicious ways, and they are readily available in your local supermarket. Instead of red meat, make it fresh fish! You can steam it, bake it, grill it, just don’t fry it.
Chicken
Chicken is good. Chicken is healthy. Take out the skin and avoid frying it. Buy chicken thighs and season it with spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic or Italian spice. You can bake, steam, and grill, and then pair it with your favorite salad, or some brown rice.
Fresh Herbs
What are the three basic herbs you must have in your kitchen for that authentic Mediterranean flavor? You guessed it right! These are parsley, mint, and basil. You can buy it at your local store, or you can even start your own little herb garden.
Whole Grains
Brown rice, quinoa, couscous, barley, oatmeal, whole wheat tortillas --- take your pick! Just make sure you’re getting the unrefined whole grains so you can enjoy all the vitamins, fiber, and antioxidant phytochemicals present in them.
Vegetables
Eat vegetables, lots and lots of vegetables. Eat vegetables in all colors to pack in as much nutrients and antioxidants in your body. The goal is to have at least 3 servings of vegetables a day (a serving is about 2 cups) every day. If you can have more servings each day, the better! You should always eat a lot of broccoli, peas, spinach, carrots, onions, peppers, squash, zucchini, kale, tomatoes, corn, mushrooms, and potatoes, to name a few.
Nuts and Beans
Stock up on unsalted nuts like almonds, walnuts, hazelnut, Brazil, and pistachio. Also stock up on beans, like white beans, kidney beans, black, red or green beans, and pinto beans. When you feel a pang of hunger, you can always munch on these, or you can use them to top your salads and sauces. Both equally delicious!
Dairy and Cheese
If you love dairy and cheese, you can still get to enjoy them even when you’re on the Mediterranean diet. Eggs, semi-skimmed milk, Greek yogurt, low-fat cheese (cottage cheese, feta cheese, mozzarella or parmesan) are good to go.
Fruits
Not only are they delicious, fruits are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. They’re also healthy and delicious desserts that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Make sure you have plenty of fruits ready to eat at home or at the office. Try to get different fruits every week and excite your taste buds each time.
Now that you have this list of your Mediterranean diet must-haves, you can now make that trip to the grocery well-prepared. Or you can also visit our shop here for more gourmet and healthy choices!
]]>In our days, tea is grown in almost every part of the world, in over 40 countries. However, this does not mean that it has lost its roots. Some of the best types of tea in the world are still carefully cultivated and taken care of in 5 traditional tea growing areas.
Over the centuries, tea has become an important part of many cultures’ consciousness. Apart from being one of the most consumed beverages in the world, it has gained an important status in the society as it gave birth to events such as the classical afternoon tea or the tea party. Some cultures like the Chinese or the Japanese, have embraced the tea ceremony, an event which implies the use of a ritual, a very stiff protocol related strictly to the preparation and the serving of tea. The stiffness which characterizes this ritual gives tea almost a sacred connotation. All in all, the above tea growing areas have formed significant philosophies concerning this beverage, which were absorbed, later on, into other cultures’ mindsets.
To read more about tea click here.
]]>Hemp seeds are part of the Cannabis family and they are very often confused with the more popular marijuana. This is what contributed to the spread of the misleading conception that hemp seeds are illegal just how marijuana is banned in so many states. Although various nations have strict regulations regarding the growing and distribution of hemp seeds, there is no reason why they should not be consumed. Unlike marijuana, hemp seeds have less than 1% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) – the psychoactive drug. Hence, no one should refrain from including hemp seeds in their diet.
Most Important Hemp Seeds Benefits
The first thing that everyone should know about hemp seeds is that they contain extremely healthy fats. Among these, omega-6 fats are known for their great effects that they produce in our body: it helps you control inflammatory conditions, it gives a boost to your metabolism by speeding the fat burning process, and it improves the aspect and condition of your skin, hair and nails. Also, hemp seeds represent a great source of protein, being one of the best healthy and natural alternatives for those who have given up on meat.
Their nutritional value also includes important vitamins, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron and other minerals and antioxidants which are vital for a good health. This makes them an excellent tool in the fight against difficult conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and different types of cancer (breast, colon and prostate cancer). Because they are rich in soluble fibers, hemp seeds are good in the treatment of various digestive disorders (like bloating or constipation).
And, of course, the list of hemp seeds benefits would not be complete without mentioning the incredible influence that they can have on your mental and emotional condition. They are widely used as a great memory enhancement tool, but they also play an important role in your treatment and control of conditions like anxiety, stress and depression. Given their fatty acid content, hemp seed consumption can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease.
Hemp Seeds Benefits In Your Plate.
After reading about so many beneficial effects, you are probably thinking about the ways in which you can incorporate these seeds to your daily diet. If so, you should not be worried. They have a mild aroma and flavor, thus they will not alter the final taste of any of your dishes, making them perfect for any type of dish you are planning to eat at any time of the day. Most usually, they are included in salads and smoothies, but they are also used for soups, rice, oatmeal and many fillings. However, keep in mind that they need to be added only at the end of the cooking process in order to enjoy the hemp seeds benefits to the fullest.
]]>Paella, the most popular of saffron dishes, at least in Spain. Also known as the national dish, it comes in many variants, some using seafood, others meat or chicken or mixed. The original is considered to be the Valencian paella that consists of white rice, chicken or rabbit assorted with vegetables and snails. All this appealing mixture is seasoned with saffron and rosemary. The seafood type, though, is the most sought for. Spain is not only home for quite a few traditional saffron dishes, but also one of the main saffron distributors in the West.
The Marseille fishermen’s original fish stew, Bouillabaisse. Now a fish soup, this dish was once a recipe improvised as to use the bony rock-fish fishermen couldn't sell to markets or restaurants. What makes this special from other fish soups is the mixture of spices and herbs in the broth and the serving method. Flavored with saffron, thyme and bay, this dish is usually accompanied with slices of bread and Rouille (a rust colored paste-sauce made of chillies, bread-crumbs, garlic and olive oil ).
The Italian primo, Risotto alla Milanese, is another of the saffron dishes that uses rice as a base. A common choice in Northern Italy. Put Carnaroli or Arborio rice in a pan with butter and a small white onion finely chopped, sprinkle with white wine and then cook adding a ladle at a time of a light vegetable broth and add the saffron, cook for 15-17 minutes. To finish the preparation add some more butter, Parmesan cheese and stir for a couple of minutes until you obtain a creamy and rich risotto.
The healthy option, Saffron Chicken. This easy to prepare dish requires only a few nutritious ingredients. Next to a few green vegetables, add saffron dissolved in a little bit of lukewarm water. Gently fry the veggies with chicken. In a different version, you could opt for saffron chicken with parsley and lemon, a recipe considered as one of the best in the world. It’s also healthy and low in carbohydrates.
Fanciful Persian Ice Cream with Saffron and Rosewater. Persian was the first language in which saffron usage was recorded. From starters to main courses and desserts, there is no doubt about the creativity engaged in Persian saffron dishes. A simple ice cream recipe to which one adds saffron and rosewater can become a glamorous and wonderful solution to make your regular day a glorious day. Mix the sugar with saffron threads and crush them until they turn into a powder, then add them to the ice cream’s basic milk blend and pour in some rosewater too. A few hours later, the only thing you can do is delight your senses with this fabulous delicacy.
Whichever of the mentioned saffron dishes might attract you, it’s worthy to acknowledge that the special taste of the spice will transform them into amazing culinary experiences.
Buon Appetito !
]]>When you use a charcoal grill, you will have to do everything manually: preheating, making sure the temperature is hot enough, and cleaning up. Because it’s charcoal, you can’t turn the temperature down, and you have no idea what the exact temperature is. The upside? Charcoal burns hotter, and you get real, authentic smoky flavor in your barbecue every single time!
Gas grills are more expensive than charcoal grills but more convenient to use. You can control the temperature with a turn of the knob, and clean-up is a lot easier. But since it runs on gas, it can be dangerous to use. And when a part breaks, depending on the make and model of your gas grill, it can be a bit inconvenient and costly to purchase spare parts.
It really boils down to how flavor matters to you (charcoal grilling produces more flavorful food), how concerned you are about the environment (charcoal and gas grills emit smoke and gases in the atmosphere), and how much you love or detest clean-up time (ash, charred meat etc.).
How to Prep your Barbecue Grill
Clean your barbecue grill of residues from your last grilling session. If you’re using a charcoal grill, buy good quality coal, like lump coal. It does heat up quickly, has no chemical or gas odors that affect the taste of your food, and leaves very little ash afterwards. Make sure the grill is hot and properly heated. You’ll know that it is when you drop the food and it makes a searing sound.
Food That You Can Barbecue
Aside from the usual fare of pork, beef, chicken, and fish, did you know that there are a lot of food that you can cook using the barbecue grill? Prepare your taste buds for a burst of flavors when you grill watermelons and top them with Greek yogurt. You can grill your own pizza, topped with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella. You can do a special grilled cheese sandwich on whichever bread you prefer. Potatoes, tofu, asparagus, eggplant, corn ---the list is endless. Let your imagination run wild!
Tips and Tricks
Click here to buy the best BBQ Sauces, Marinades & Rubs at The Foodie Pantry
]]>Honey has been around for thousands of years. Our forefathers used honey for medicinal and cosmetic purposes, so it’s no surprise that we are also using honey now for the same purposes.
Effective Hangover Cure
Partied a little too hard last night and need to be at work in a few minutes? Don’t panic. Did you know that honey is an effective hangover cure? It contains natural sugars that help speed up the oxidation of alcohol in the liver. So the next time you get too hung over, try mixing honey with some orange juice and natural yogurt and blend it well. Bottoms up!
Natural Antiseptic
Have a little kitchen accident and cut a finger? Scraped your knee during that intense game of basketball? Try honey! It’s an effective natural antiseptic and antibacterial that helps cuts and burns heal properly. Wash the affected area with soap and water, and then apply a little honey. Try to watch out for ants making a beeline for it, though. Also, it works wonders in killing bacteria that causes yeast infection, athlete’s foot, or jock itch.
Cure for the Common Cold
Don’t you just hate it when you catch the cold? It’s hard to breathe or swallow, your eyes are all puffy, your whole body hurts, your head feels like a ton of bricks, and your nose is all runny. Honey can provide fast relief to the common cold. Just add honey in freshly squeezed lemon juice. It’s also very effective cure for sore throat because of its antibacterial properties.
Natural Moisturizer
Honey works great as a moisturizing mask. Lather a tablespoonful of honey on your face and gently scrub the dry parts of your face. If you have dry patches in other parts of your body, like your elbows or knees or feet, you can apply honey on it, too. Let it sit for about half an hour, and then wash with water.
Natural Hair Conditioner
Do you experience bad hair day every day? Dandruff? Falling hair? Say goodbye to all your hair woes with just a teaspoon of honey. Just add a teaspoon of honey with your regular shampoo to smoothen and repair damaged hair. Mix it with some olive oil for a more thorough and deeper hair conditioning. Massage onto your hair and leave it on for about twenty minutes while wrapped in a towel. Rinse well.
Relaxing Bathwater
It’s a great relaxing addition to your bathwater. Just add two tablespoons of honey to a cup of water. Dissolve it. Then add some relaxing essential oils like lavender, and then mix with your bathwater.
Cure for Restless Sleep
Have trouble sleeping? Does your child wake up in the middle of the night plagued by coughing due to allergies? Try the milk and honey remedy. Prepare some hot milk and add a teaspoon of honey for calming and sleep-inducing effects. You can also take a cup of chamomile tea and add a little honey as an alternative.
Energy Booster
In the morning, instead of putting butter on that toast, try some honey instead. Add honey to your oatmeal, to your fruits, to your drinks. It’s a great energy booster and a healthier substitute to sugar. Use it for baking or cooking.
Honey is one of the most versatile foods you can ever have in your kitchen.
]]>Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red color. Studies show that regular consumption of tomatoes can greatly reduce your chances of having prostate cancer by as much as 40%. Tomatoes are healthy cooked, even healthier when raw, pureed, or juiced.
Kale
Kale is part of the cabbage family that’s usually purple or green in color. It’s packed with nutrients and is low in calories, which makes it one of the best superfoods you should include in your diet. It’s loaded with antioxidants like beta carotene. Kale has one of the highest Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (or ORAC, the ability of foods to subdue oxygen free radicals) at 1,770.
Kale helps lower cholesterol and also reduces your risk of heart disease. It’s also great for the skin as it prevents the harmful effects of too much ultraviolet radiation. Kale also has vitamin K, vitamin C, iron, and tons more of nutrients that truly make this green leafy veggie a superfood. It’s best eaten steamed, sautéed, baked, blended, or even raw in salads.
Black Beans
They’re inexpensive but super nutritious. They’re delicious and go very well with any kind of dish. They’re widely available everywhere, all year round. They’re a great source of dietary fiber, iron, protein, folate, magnesium, potassium, and calcium. They are also a very powerful antioxidant.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a rich source of antioxidants like sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol, as well as vitamin A and vitamin K, and dietary fiber. Adding broccoli to your diet reduces your risk of cancer. It also helps lower high blood pressure, and prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Salmon
Salmon is also a superfood because of its high omega-3 fatty acid content. It’s rich in protein, vitamin A and vitamin B. It’s good for the joints, and helps in improving brain functions. Studies show that salmon also helps in the prevention of certain types of cancer. Not only that, regular consumption of salmon promotes better vision. And did we mention that it’s also good for cardiovascular health ?
Oats
Oats are high in fiber, meaning they’re great for the digestive system. They help lower cholesterol, and are an excellent source of energy (because of carbohydrates and protein). Oats are delicious paired with milk or fruits in the morning for a healthy power breakfast.
Acai
Acai is a dark purple berry that comes from the acai palm trees of South America. It belongs to the same family as blueberries and cranberries. Acai berries are packed with fiber that’s excellent for digestion, antioxidants that help prevent cancer, plus amino acids and healthy fats.
Seaweed
You love them on your sushi, but did you know that seaweed is considered a superfood ? It’s an antioxidant that’s also a good source of calcium. It’s rich in iodine, an essential nutrient for a healthy thyroid. Research shows that consumption of seaweed can help regulate hormonal problems and infertility problems in women.
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds come from a desert plant called Salvia Hispanica and are usually black or white in color. You can snack on Chia seeds raw or you can add and sprinkle them to different dishes. Like the other superfoods in this list, Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, calcium, protein, and other essential minerals that our bodies need. Try them on your salad, on your muffin, even on your pizza! They’re truly very versatile.
Goji Berries
Goji berries are considered both a fruit and an herb, so it doesn’t surprise us if they made it to the list of superfoods you must include in your diet. Not only do they taste delicious, they also have high protein content. They’re great for cancer prevention and weight loss. Studies show that they help improve sleep, focus, and brain functions.
Green Tea
Green tea is a very good antioxidant. Green tea contains catechins that are effective in lowering cholesterol. Trying to lose weight? Drink green tea daily. It’s known to be very effective with weight loss as it helps burn calories.
Camu Camu
Camu camu is a fruit the size of a lemon that comes from the Amazon rainforests of Colombia, Venezuela, Peru and Brazil. Like most fruits, it’s rich in vitamin C that strengthens your immunity. However, camu camu is actually 60 times richer in vitamin C than a regular orange! It’s also packed with antioxidants and essential amino acids. It’s proven effective against viruses that cause cold sores, herpes, shingles, and colds. A natural mood balancer and an effective antidepressant too.
Mangosteen
Mangosteen is a fruit packed with nutrients and enzymes. This succulent and delicious fruit contains antioxidants that help prevent cancer. If you want to prevent cardiovascular problems, this fruit should never be missing from your diet. Mangosteen also helps improve brain functions and sharpen memory. It’s been also proven to be a very effective anti-ageing food.
Which among these superfoods are already in your diet? If you still haven’t tried any of these superfoods, now is the best time to do so !
]]>There’s a reason why millions of people around the world are huge tea drinkers. Not only does it taste delicious, tea provides a lot of health benefits to the body, too. Depending on the kind of tea that you consume, it can address certain health issues and problems, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, cancer, and even mental disorders like depression. If there’s one thing you should be drinking more, it’s definitely tea.
Why Tea Is So Great
How to Best Prepare Tea
Room temperature to cold temperature water is best used when boiling water in a kettle for tea. Don’t let it boil too much and too long, though. When your water reaches that first gentle boil, you can remove the kettle from the heat.
Warm your teacups and teapot with your hot water from the kettle. This helps keep the consistent hot temperature. Add the tea leaves in your teapot and allow the tea to cool a little bit. Steep accordingly. Strain, serve and pour.
If you’re using teabags, brew your tea not shorter than 3 minutes. And don’t leave the tea bag in your cup while enjoying your drink.
The Foodie Pantry has a selection of special teas that will surely delight the tea lover in you. We have so many great stuff in our pantry!
To read more about tea click here.
]]>Here is a list of the most expensive ingredients in the world:
All in all, keep in mind that prices might vary depending on the area you are living in and if the ingredient is indeed natural from the area or not. These most expensive ingredients can turn out to be quite cheap if you are buying only the flavors (e.g.: vanillin) and not the essence.
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Conclusively, you can only gain – not unwanted weight! – if you are being sensible about the amount of chocolate you devour. These super chocolate benefits, packed in a tiny or reasonably sized delicacy, are justifiable and pertinent reasons as to not feel guilty next time you savor the delicious treat. Whatever disapproving attitudes you might encounter regarding your chocolate fixation, now you know how to counterbalance them with informed facts.
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Delight your taste buds with white truffles in Piemonte (Piedmont) where, each autumn, the Tartufo Bianco di Alba is held in the city of Alba. At the white truffle world market, you can auction and also check the quality of each truffle as there is a specific commission stall among the sellers. The season is specific for white truffles, which mostly harvest around October and November, but here you can also find black truffles. If you want to give a try to one of the truffle creams or sauces produced using truffles from this renowned area.If you prefer the rarest and more pretentious white.
Centuries ago, pigs where used for hunting the truffles concealed in oak forests, but nowadays specially trained dogs are part of this business. In Umbria, you can watch it during a trip that you can book at your hotel or elsewhere. It usually lasts 1-2 hours and truffle dishes, as appetizers or main courses, are prepared and served for lunch. Black truffles are more common here, usually harvested from late autumn until spring. In fact, Norcia, located in the National Park of the Sibillini mountains, is considered by some the Italian capital of black truffles.
Tuscany is best known for its breathtaking scenery and its refined wines, but it is also an acclaimed province for the truffles it supplies across the world. One of the rarest white truffle destinations, found exclusively in Italy, is the small town called San Miniato. Located between Florence and Pisa, the town celebrates the National Exhibition of the White Truffle on a yearly basis.
Along Umbria and Tuscany, marking the central part of Italy, Le Marche is another sought black and white truffles destination. Mainly unaffected by tourism, this province situated between the Adriatic Sea and the Apennine Mountains consists of urban and rural land set up high on beautiful hills. Two types of black and one of white truffles grow in the area. Hunting trips at affordable prices are available here too, as well as truffle cooking classes.
The largest city in this region, Bologna, known not only for its monuments and architectural diversity, but also for its UNESCO “city of music” etiquette is also an unmistakable choice for those willing to experiment the thrills of truffle festivals. Home to a National White Truffle Festival as well, and also to the oldest university in the world, Bologna is an eloquent and wise option for those passionate about history and the so called “diamonds of the culinary world”. Ranked in 2011 as the first city in the country in terms of life quality, it can be a valuable picking among many white truffle destinations.
No matter how slight your curiosity about black or white truffles destinations is, getting to explore this highly-appreciated treat in its central country of origin will certainly prove to be a memorable experience. Click here to shop for Truffle infused Olive Oil and other flavors.
Buon Appetito !
]]>The salt ranges in color from translucent white to different shades of pink and deep reddish.The color is due to the mineral composition, iron oxides, which are common in nature and widely used by humans.
Claimed benefits:
But perhaps the most important thing about Himalayan salt is the very obvious : it is a natural, raw, ancient product, a gift of mother nature packed with minerals. The very opposite from regular Table Salt which is (as someone else well described it) “a freak of nature” stripped of all minerals and bleached.
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