Learning to speak another language can be quite a daunting task; trying to follow recipes in a foreign language can be less challenging if you become familiar with the basic ingredients. Of course, an even better way to enjoy an authentic Italian meal would be to visit the best in Orlando fine dining at Christini’s Ristorante Italiano. At Christini’s, only the freshest and finest ingredients are used in preparation of our stellar meals. We’d like to share a few of the basic ingredients with you in Italian.
Basil – Basilico in Italian is perhaps one of the most popular of spices in Italian cooking. It has a wonderful aroma that some say hints of cloves and licorice. Fresh basil leaves are tender and full-bodied and are featured in many cooked dishes and savory salads.
Garlic – Aglio. What else is there to say? Garlic is synonymous with Italian cooking, however, most Italian cuisine is prepared with a delicate balance of garlic and other herbs and spices. True Italian cooks very rarely over-garlic their meals.
Rosemary – Rosemarino is a popular herb, and while its’ roots can be traced back to the Mediterranean, it is now found growing around the world. Rosemarino has a spectacular fresh, almost pine-scented aroma and its needles, once stripped from the sprig, can be added whole or chopped to season meats, poultry, and soups.
Oregano – Origano is an herb that brings such depth of flavor to Italian food. It belongs to the mint family and its fresh leaves should be used sparingly in food preparation lest the dish become overpowered with its taste. Oregano dries beautifully and is a tasty addition to pizza sauces and soups and stews.
Thyme – Timo is another perennial favorite in Italian cuisine. Its flavor is sort of lemony and minty at the same time. Thyme is often used is a bouquet garni (herbs that are tied together and placed into soups and sauces to enhance flavor and removed at the end of cook time,) and it also widely used to season meats and poultry.
Anise – Anice was first used by the Greeks and then the Romans to season poultry and pork. While its status in modern Italian cuisine has changed from a main course flavoring to being more prevalent in desserts, it still plays an integral part in the Italian kitchen. Whether it is added as an extract, in its powdered state, or as a delightful liqueur, Anise is a wonderful flavor reminiscent of licorice. From cookies, cakes and gelato to a cup of espresso, the popularity of anise has grown throughout the years.
To savor all of these delicious and fresh enhancements, visit Christini’s and explore the many dishes that highlight these magnificent herbs and spices. Orlando fine dining can be found at Christini’s Ristorante Italiano because of the ambiance, outstanding service, and remarkable cuisine offered. Please call for reservations.