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You probably know what pesto is if you like Italian food. This fragrant green sauce is a staple in many Italian dishes, from pasta to sandwiches, and is made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Did you know that pesto has its roots in Genoa, Italy and that there is a specific way to make it? Here, we’ll share what we learned about making real pesto in Genoa and offer advice for making your own at home.
The History of Pesto in Genoa
Although pesto’s roots go back to antiquity, it wasn’t until the nineteenth century that it found widespread acclaim in Genoa. The Genoese verb “pestâ,” meaning “to pound or crush,” is the source of the English word “pesto.” Historically, the sauce was prepared by grinding its constituent parts in a mortar and pestle until they formed a uniform paste.
Basil is the foundation of pesto, and the basil grown in Genoa is considered among the best in the world. Because of the local climate, soil, and cultivation methods, the basil grown there has a distinctive flavor and aroma. In addition to basil, garlic, and pine nuts, Parmesan cheese and the other ingredients for pesto were also easily accessible in Genoa.
Pesto has since become a staple dish in Italian households across the country, not just in Genoa. In fact, every year, chefs from all over the world descend upon the city of Genoa to compete in the Pesto World Championship.
The Ingredients of Authentic Pesto
To make authentic pesto, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Basil: Use fresh Genovese basil if possible. You’ll need about two cups of packed basil leaves.
- Garlic: Use one or two cloves of garlic, depending on your taste.
- Pine nuts: Use about 1/4 cup of pine nuts.
- Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese, about 1/2 cup.
- Olive oil: Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil, about 1/2 cup.
- Salt: Use a pinch of salt to taste.
Making Authentic Pesto Step-by-Step
Here’s how to make authentic pesto step-by-step:
- Wash and dry the basil leaves. Remove any stems or damaged leaves.
- In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, grind the garlic and pine nuts until they are finely chopped.
- Add the basil leaves to the mortar or food processor, and continue to grind or pulse until the basil is finely chopped and the mixture is a paste.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and salt, and mix well.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to mix, until the pesto reaches the desired consistency.
Tips for Making the Perfect Pesto
While making pesto is fairly simple, there are a few tips that can help you make the perfect sauce:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the quality of the ingredients, the better the pesto will taste. Look for fresh, fragrant basil, high-quality Parmesan cheese, and good-quality olive oil.
- Use a mortar and pestle: While you can use a food processor, traditionalists swear by using a mortar and pestle to make pesto. This method creates a more flavorful and fragrant sauce, and allows you to control the texture of the pesto.
- Add ingredients in stages: To ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed, add them to the mortar or food processor in stages. For example, start with the garlic and pine nuts, then add the basil leaves, and finally the Parmesan cheese and olive oil.
- Don’t over-process: When using a food processor, it’s important not to over-process the pesto. This can cause the ingredients to become too smooth and lose their texture and flavor. Pulse the food processor in short bursts, and stop when the pesto is just combined.
- Adjust the consistency: If the pesto is too thick, add a little more olive oil. If it’s too thin, add more Parmesan cheese or pine nuts.
- Use fresh: Pesto is best when it’s fresh, so try to use it within a few hours of making it. You can store the leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for longer storage.
How to Use Pesto
Pesto is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas for using pesto:
- Pasta: Toss pesto with your favorite pasta, and top with grated Parmesan cheese and pine nuts.
- Sandwiches: Spread pesto on bread, and top with sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and arugula.
- Grilled meat or fish: Brush pesto onto the grilled chicken, steak, or fish for added flavor.
- Dip: Use pesto as a dip for vegetables or crackers.
Pesto is an age-old Italian staple that has become a worldwide favorite. The secret to making authentic pesto is using high-quality ingredients and doing it the old-fashioned way, with a mortar and pestle. Follow these steps, and you’ll have pesto that tastes like you’re eating in the streets of Genoa.
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