Puglian Caroselle: A Salento Specialty
The Puglian caroselle, also known as caruselle or Salentine caroselle, are a delightful specialty of the Salento region. Originating from the inflorescences of wild fennel, these small gems appear in the fields mainly during spring. The term "carosella" refers to the youth and tenderness of these inflorescences, with "carosa" in the Salentino dialect meaning a young girl. You may also come across "caroselli," the masculine version indicating native Puglian cucumbers, known for their short and plump shape. Caroselli are enjoyed both raw, eaten like fruit, and in fresh salads with tomatoes, capers, and other crunchy vegetables.
Properties and Characteristics of Carosella vegetable
The carosella vegetable are renowned for their therapeutic properties, beneficial for digestion, pain relief, detoxification, and the elimination of toxins and intestinal gases. Distinguishable by their size from cultivated fennel inflorescences, wild caroselle tend to be slightly larger.
Harvesting, Preparation, and Preservation of Caroselle in Vinegar
The caroselle are harvested in full bloom and then preserved in vinegar. This method not only preserves the caroselle but also enhances their strong and slightly bitter flavor. For optimal preservation, it is recommended to use clean utensils when removing them from the jar and to ensure the jar is tightly sealed after each use.
How are Caroselle preserved?
Caroselle in vinegar are preserved in tightly sealed jars. It is important to use clean utensils each time they are removed from the jar and to ensure the jar is properly closed after each use.
How to preserve Caroselle?
To preserve caroselle, it is essential to keep the jar tightly sealed and use clean utensils to avoid contamination.
When to harvest Caroselle?
Caroselle are harvested during their blooming period in spring.
When are Caroselle harvested?
The caroselle are harvested when the inflorescences are fully bloomed, usually in spring.
What are Caroselle?
Caroselle are the young and tender inflorescences of a wild fennel plant, typical of the Salento region in Puglia.
What are Puglian Caroselle?
Puglian caroselle refers to the inflorescences of wild fennel, cultivated and consumed mainly in Salento, appreciated for their taste and beneficial properties.
