A taste trip to the Old World BY NANCY KALAJIAN
Imagine yourself taking in the sun in Valencia or walking the majestic grounds at Santiago di Campostella in northern Spain. At the end of a peaceful day, you might meet up with the locals and enjoy a traditional dessert combination of salty fried almonds, manchego cheese, and quince paste — a jelly-like concoction made of heavenly sweet and fragrant fruit. Back in the United States, you might find the locals adding a cracker or slice of bread to this delectable taste trio. Whoever said that only a cream-cheese brownie or sacher torte could sate a sweet tooth should think again — and then take a taste trip to Cambridge. For $14.50 a pound, Formaggio Kitchen sells Membrillo, an artisanal version of quince paste, and it doesn’t disappoint. You can buy whatever quantity you need; a little slice goes a long way. Formaggio also sells the Manchego Artesano from La Mancha ($13.95) and Catalonian almonds fried in extra-virgin olive oil ($4.95). For a full taste experience, one Formaggio staff person suggests that you eat small portions of the paste and the cheese together, and every once in a while eat an almond or two. Repeat as necessary. Whether you’re at Old Silver Beach, by the Charles River, or relaxing on a summer’s evening picnic in Beantown, this dessert could easily transport you to another time and place. Available at Formaggio Kitchen, located at 244 Huron Avenue, in Cambridge. Call (617) 354-4750. Issue Date: July 26 - August 2, 2001 |
|