Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups fresh toothache plant leaves, washed and dried
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Special Equipment Needed:
- Food processor or blender
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Add toothache plant leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and black pepper to a food processor or blender.
2. Pulse until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
3. While the food processor or blender is running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Transfer the pesto to a jar or container and store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: N/A
Temperature:
- N/A
Serving size:
- Makes about 1 cup of pesto
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 160 per serving
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 230mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pine nuts can be substituted with walnuts or almonds.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
- Extra-virgin olive oil can be substituted with avocado oil or grapeseed oil.
- Garlic can be substituted with shallots or green onions.
Variations:
- Add a handful of fresh basil leaves to the pesto for a more traditional flavor.
- Use the pesto as a marinade for chicken or fish.
- Mix the pesto with cream cheese for a flavorful spread.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a nuttier flavor.
- Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the food processor or blender to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Store the pesto in an airtight container with a layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation.
Storage Instructions:
- Store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Reheating Instructions:
- N/A
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the pesto with crackers or bread.
- Use the pesto as a sauce for pasta or pizza.
- Spread the pesto on a sandwich or wrap.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or chopped pine nuts.
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp white wine or a light beer.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the pesto is too thick, add more olive oil until desired consistency is reached.
- If the pesto is too thin, add more toothache plant leaves or Parmesan cheese.
Food Safety Advice:
- Wash the toothache plant leaves thoroughly before using.
- Store the pesto in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
Food History:
- Toothache plant, also known as Spilanthes acmella, has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It is believed to have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.
Flavor Profiles:
- Toothache plant has a unique flavor profile that is both spicy and numbing.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the pesto as a dip, spread, or sauce.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A