TORONTO – Rosemary herb is a staple in most kitchens. This year round herb, with sturdy stem , long pine like leaves graces the dishes of many recipes in our kitchens.
In some cultures, the rosemary plant has symbolic importance. There are legends of rosemary grown on each side of a door entry to absorb evil spirits trying to enter; Greeks and Romans used rosemary in crowns to increase mental acuity before exams; Australians use rosemary as a symbol for remembrance and fidelity. Travellers use rosemary under their pillow for sweet dreams and safe travel. Health enthusiasts seep rosemary in hot water to drink in order to purify their gastro-intestinal systems.
Regardless of culture, folklore or legends with which it is associated, Rosemary is linked to health benefits, purification and friendship.
Give it the right care, share and you will reap its rewards.
Nicola Palma, Owner /Director of Aroma Domus herb farm in Paestum Salerno believes just that. Having spent the last 20 years nurturing his passion for all types of herbs, he has created a self-sufficient , clean energy herb farm.
From the germination of all herb seeds to cultivation, harvest and safe packaging, Nicola has ensured that the herbs grown in his fields follow all regulations of O.P. farms.
Aroma Domus (home of aroma) is part of the A. O. A., association of farms. A designation and certification for organic agriculture from the area. Similar to designation we associate with products such as Parmigiano Reggiano, Aceto Balsamico di Modena, Prosciutto di Parma and Mozzarella di Bufala.
In the past, explains Nicola, herbs were given by grocers as a gift to the consumer to accompany the food purchases. A former restaurateur himself, he knows the importance of high quality herbs.
The one herb that seems to be king on this farm and favorite of his grandkids is Basil.
Italians use basil like the rest of the world uses water. Basil is life.
Nicola invests in research to cultivate the right seed that will give his Basil the perfect balance of mint and Basil flavour. It is prepared with eco-friendly packaging ensuring safe travel and long shelf life from farm to grocery throughout Italy.
Parsley is packaged in bouquets as though they were flowers. Not like the clumps of wet rotting mess we are forced to pick through in our grocery stores.
Rosemary herbs grown only here on the farms near Paestum are easily distinguishable from others at the market. With short leaves, bright green and oily to the touch the perfume it emits is soft and floral like, not of heavy woody pine.
This rosemary herb is delicate and its uses in the kitchen and home are versatile.
Nicola happily wraps and shares a handful of Rosemary with our group.
High tariffs on food products from the United States should turn our attention to healthy import options from Italy.
Imagine walking through grocery stores in Toronto and smelling the fresh Italian air from Peastum Salerno!
(Photos: Fruit and Veg from Europe and Corriere Canadese)
