Darégal

Rocket

Eruca sativa

  • Name: Rocket
  • Latin name: Eruca sativa
  • Harvest area: India
  • Harvest period: september - october
  • Properties:
      - Rich in vitamin C

Description:

Egyptians, Greeks and Romans attributed rocket many medicinal virtues, among which being aphrodisiac.  This reputation did not escape religious authorities who, during the Middle Ages, forbade its cultivation in monasteries.

Cultivation:
Rocket is a wild lettuce, similar to cress.
It is mainly grown in India.

Uses:
Whilst is still young, rocket has a nutty taste, as it matures, the taste becomes hotter and slightly bitter.
Whilst the leaves are young, it is advisable to drizzle a little olive oil or crème fraîche. When mature, the vinegar should be replaced with fruit juice.
It accompanies perfectly sweet cheeses and caramelised fruit.