Origins and History of Pesto
The
origins of pesto are somehow uncertain but some historical letters
found in the archives of Genoa (Liguria)
mention a dressing called "battuto
d'aglio" (literally battered garlic) already in the 1600th
. Basil has been know to all the Mediterranean people since the age of
the Romans, probably originating from the northern coasts of Africa
This unique dressing that recently has
conquered the tables of many dining rooms all over the world is
closely related to the image of Liguria and Genoa. Here the unique
microclimate and the ideal soil favors the growth of a variety of
basil especially balanced in terms of taste and aroma.
In the past it was very common
for the Genovese families to keep a small basil plant on the balcony
and the same was for the captains on their ships during their long
journeys. Even today it is not rare to pick out small basil plants
placed on the balconies facing the seaside.
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The
best area to grow basil is considered to be the one just outside Genoa
city, the piece of land facing the sea going from Pra to
Pegli, two zones at the western outskirts of Genoa.
The
ancient method of preparation of pesto is with the marble
mortar and the wood pestel. It is still considered to be the
best way of preparing pesto at home although today very few persons do actually follow
this process.
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Marble Mortar |
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In order
to allow the full release of its aroma the little leaves of basil
should be crushed by hand in the mortaio by means of a wooden stick called
"pestello". The movement of the wrist is of great
importance. It should be a round movement, allowing to squeeze the
leave either then crush them. Then you pour some extra virgin olive
oil (ligurian ..of course), then put some unrefined salt and again squeeze
all the compost, and finally pour in the parmesan cheese and the pine
nuts and some more olive oil. The result should be a creamy pesto,
thick but not hard solid.
Visit our
Recipe section for the typical
recipe of Pesto or visit
our online Pesto section to buy and taste our unique Pesto
