The word comes from Greek basileus, which translated means "king", although in ancient Greece and Rome, the herb was a symbol of malice and hatred. They believed that to grow basil to swear until drop seeds into the ground. In some other cultures the herb is associated with love rituals. In some parts of the West has adopted Europe man to marry a woman from whose hand has received a bunch of basil. In Italy if a woman put a bunch of basil on her balcony so will be kind to her lover. Furthermore, it is believed that basil brings luck to new owners.
Basil is also very fragrant and widespread in the culinary spice. There are several types of basil, some of them with its scent reminiscent of pineapple, lemon, cinnamon or cloves. Others have beautiful purple leaves. The plant is found in countries with warmer climates and mostly used in southern Europe and the Mediterranean, as in many parts of Asia.
Variety is called Tulsi Indian basil, which is one of the ingredients of authentic Thai curry. In areas Mediterranean basil and tomatoes are a classic combination. Pesto made from basil leaves and pine nuts with parmeggianno and olive oil is another traditional dish of Italian cuisine.
And who could resist a delicious, fragrant and very useful cold soup of spinach and basil. Suitable for summer heat and your fine figure?
Soup with spinach and basil
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion
4 cloves garlic
2 bunches of spinach
1 bunch fresh basil
A vegetable broth
Nutmeg
Cayenne
¼ cup grated cheese
1 cup milk
Fry onions until golden. Saute spinach and add to onion along with basil and broth. Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes then add milk, cheese, garlic, nutmeg and paprika.
Put in a suitable bowl and blend, then return to pan and warm soup again to mix ingredients well.
Put salt, let cool and eat with pleasure!
No comments:
Post a Comment