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.