FINISH THIS PHRASE: ARTICHOKE _____ ?
Did you say "hearts"? I know I would have, but the answer today is....FLOWERS! Yes, artichokes go to flower if left unpicked! No, it's not really surprising, but have YOU ever seen an artichoke in flower? I know I haven't. When we stopped by our friend's house last week I was amazed when I looked down and saw these beautiful purple flowers. In this shot the flower looks like one giant succulent, but you can see more flowers and different views on our FLICKR PAGE
Labels: artichokes
IT'S ALL ABOUT THE FOOD
Some may claim that Italy's famous for the rich history it holds. For the innumerable works of art. For it's religious signifigance, or the might of the Roman army. But really, it's all about the food.
You can't visit Italy without experiencing some amazing meals. Wine that defies decription. Delicate pasta adorned with the simplest of sauces. Gelato that explodes with flavor. Roasted pork, grilled steak, chinghiale sasuages. Seasonal fruits and vegetables so flavorful it's hard to go back to the bland stuff we've become used to in the states.
Weekly markets are a tradition that survive despite the appearance of 'modern' supermarkets and the increased availability of foods. One of the reasons they survive is because market day is one big social event. The women shop while the men gather to discuss the weather, politics, whatever it is that men discuss.
At these weekly markets, held in small towns all over Umbria, whatever is in season will be piled high. Staples are always available, but the seasonal stuff always takes center stage. Right now the blood oranges from Sicily are here,
as well as artichokes.
Artichokes are something I'd never eaten before I move to Italy, but honestly, aren't these just the most beautiful things you've ever seen? How could you NOT buy some?
Labels: artichokes
Spina Bifida
