What is Organic

In Search of The Tangible and Intangible Mediterranean Diet

There is a culinary line that dissects the midriff of the Europecontinent. This line proceeds in gradients of latitudes that mayblur as you move from north to south.

 

The people of the north raise herds of cows and goats. Their milk is sometimes whipped into butter or aged into cheese. Almost everything edible is bathed in either cream or butter. 

 

Here the pigs feast on chestnuts and in turn make good sausage. The pickles are fermented, and the kraut soured to nourishsturdy souls through long winter months. 

 

Below this imaginary line, trees pervade. Hot ancient orchards dot the hillsides dripping with great bundles of green-black olives. They’re pressed into a nutty oil for the base of sauces and ragouts or a simple dip for crusty bread. 

 

Tomatoes and vegetables of every size and elongation are bathed in this southern sun.

Every scaled and nautical beast is netted and fished from the sea. 

 

Italy, Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Greece, and Cyprus all surround the Mediterranean Sea, these are the people who inspire the southern Mediterranean diet. 

  Continue reading “In Search of The Tangible and Intangible Mediterranean Diet”

Culinary Delights, Social Implications in Agriculture, What is Organic

Tunisian Odyssey: A Sample of Ancient Flavors

TreeI find myself once again in Tunisia—the people are goodhearted—almost innocent—it feels safe here.

The people are so honest that the handmade ethnic baskets are left outside the hotel store at night—no one touches or lifts the precious items from their corner.

In this whitewashed, stucco, sun-splashed landscape, the dust of the Sahara nestles and rests in the nooks and crannies of almost everything.
Continue reading “Tunisian Odyssey: A Sample of Ancient Flavors”

What is Organic

Earth Day in Tunisia and The Origins of Olive Oil

This year I’ll be spending Earth Day in Tunisia. Not planting trees nor marching for science but instead wallowing my way through delicious Tunisian olive oils. I go as a journalist to discover the nuanced flavors each producer’s earth, sun and care impart. I will visit centuries-old olive groves and commune with those who have husbanded these ancient arbors for generations out of mind. Continue reading “Earth Day in Tunisia and The Origins of Olive Oil”