A taste of history: How pesto evolved over the centuries
What's the story
Pesto, a beloved sauce originating from Italy, has a rich history that dates back centuries.
Traditionally made using a mortar and pestle, this vibrant green sauce has evolved over time while maintaining its core ingredients.
Today, pesto is enjoyed worldwide in various forms and recipes.
This article explores the journey of pesto from its humble beginnings to its place on modern plates.
Early beginnings
Origins in Ancient Rome
The roots of pesto can be traced back to ancient Rome, where a similar paste called moretum was prepared using herbs and cheese.
This early version paved the way for what would become the classic pesto we know today.
The use of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and cheese became more defined over time as it gained popularity in Liguria region.
Mortar and pestle
Traditional preparation methods
Traditionally, pesto was made with a mortar and pestle, a technique that crushes the ingredients into a smooth paste.
It gives you unparalleled control over the texture and gradual release of flavors, unlike modern appliances.
The manual process gives the sauce the touch of craftsmanship, deeply appreciated by many purists even today.
It is a nod to the past, paying homage to original methods of preparation.
Modern adaptations
Evolution with technology
With technological advancements also came new ways to prepare pesto quickly without compromising taste significantly.
Blenders and food processors have become common tools, be it for making pesto at home or commercially.
These devices offer convenience but may alter the texture slightly compared to traditional methods.
Diverse variations
Global influence on recipes
As pesto traveled beyond Italy's borders, thanks mainly to globalization trends (travel, tourism, culinary exchange), different cultures started adapting it to their own tastes and preferences.
This gave rise to diverse variations such as sun-dried tomato, arugula, walnut, and almond, each bringing a unique twist to the classic recipe.
While keeping the essence intact, these adaptations let people enjoy flavors from across the globe, irrespective of location, or dietary restrictions.