(Newswire.net — February 27, 2024) —
Food experts have spoken and announced the trends we can expect to see on our plates this year. If your eyes rolled for a second there, I don’t blame you. When did trends move from the runway into the kitchen, right? But hear me out. This year’s culinary trends promote sustainable agricultural practices, less processing, and transparent food labels. And when the quest for wellness combines with the pursuit of sustainability, two ingredients emerge as heroes on both fronts. Heart-healthy extra-virgin Texas olive oil is produced in the Lone Star State by Texas Hill Country Olive Co. through traditional methods. Crops of humble buckwheat are easy to grow and harvest, and are packed full of nutritional benefits.
Both of these offer a plethora of health benefits and contribute to a more sustainable food system, especially when sourced locally. Let’s delve into the goodness of EVOO and buckwheat and find out how they can improve not just our health, but also the wellbeing of our planet.
The Health Angle: Texas Olive Oil and Buckwheat Power
Let’s talk about EVOO first. The MVP of Mediterranean cuisine, it’s loaded with all the good stuff. Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, this liquid gold has been linked to lower rates of heart disease. It can reduce inflammation in a similar way to ibuprofen and studies show it can improve cognitive function. Its effect on chronic inflammation makes it a fantastic ally against cancer, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s, rheumatoid arthritis, and obesity.
From drizzling over salads to sautéing vegetables, EVOO adds a flavorful and nutritious touch to countless dishes – both savory and sweet. Due to its resistance to high heat, it’s a healthier choice for cooking compared to other oils, making it a beloved staple in kitchens worldwide.
And don’t underestimate buckwheat. Despite its misleading name, it’s not even related to wheat! Instead, buckwheat is actually a nutritional powerhouse in the form of a tiny seed. Full of protein, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium and iron, buckwheat offers several health perks. Incorporating it into our diets comes with benefits such as lowering some markers of heart disease, improving circulation, and lowering fasting insulin levels in diabetes patients.
Buckwheat is also gluten-free, making it an excellent ingredient for those of us who have a gluten allergy or intolerance but still love a bowl of cereal in the morning. Or a hearty porridge, or some fluffy pancakes. Buckwheat provides sustained energy and promotes digestive health, making it a versatile and wholesome choice for any meal.
Sustainability: Looking After Our Planet
Besides being good for us, EVOO and buckwheat are also champs when it comes to sustainability. In places like Texas and California, local producers are doing their bit with eco-friendly practices like organic farming and minimal processing. The Texas Hill Country Olive Company in Dripping Springs was founded by Italian immigrants by heritage who brought along their passion for tasty and healthy foods. To this day, they only use mechanical processes and no chemicals or heat to extract the oil from the olive fruit. This method ensures that all the goodness is extracted from the fruit and the end result, the EVOO, is full of healthy antioxidants and nutrients and has a moorish taste.
The production of EVOO is also considered sustainable due to its minimal impact on the ecosystem. Because olive trees have long roots that grow deep in the soil, they can easily absorb water and nutrients from the ground. This reduces the need for irrigation which is especially important in areas that can be affected by high temperatures and droughts during the summer. The long roots of these trees play an important role in preventing soil erosion and maintaining the landscape. And, on top of all that, these trees naturally repel pests and disease – no nasty pesticides are needed to keep these orchards healthy.
And let’s not forget about buckwheat, making a comeback in the US thanks to farmers realizing its potential as a sustainable crop. Thriving in diverse climates and requiring minimal inputs, buckwheat serves as a valuable ally in sustainable agriculture, promoting soil health, water conservation, and biodiversity. Maturing in just 30 days, it grows faster than weeds, requiring fewer herbicides to be used during the growing process. Buckwheat is a great crop for farmers who are transitioning to organic farming as it suppresses most weeds.
As a “short-season crop”, buckwheat can be grown either in the spring or in the fall, leaving the summer free for crops that require more time to mature. It’s also been proven to draw phosphorus from the soil, prepping it for the next crop.
By supporting local producers, we, as buyers, are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also helping preserve our agricultural heritage and biodiversity.
A Colab For The Ages
Bringing together these two incredible ingredients is as simple as making a salad. Simmer 1 cup of buckwheat groats in 2 cups of water for about 15 minutes, until the water is absorbed. Season with a pinch of salt. Chop a large tomato, a small onion, and some olives. Mix the vegetables and the buckwheat together. Season with EVOO, vinegar, and salt, then sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley and a few toasted seeds of your choice. Serve as a side dish or a main and make sure to have enough for seconds.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try bringing together these two powerful pantry staples in crackers, soups, and even cookies. Experiment with new recipes knowing that your dish is making a difference in the world.
For me, it’s not just about the food; it’s about the story behind it. Knowing where our food comes from and how it’s grown makes a real difference. It’s about making choices that are good for us and the planet. And when it comes to Texas olive oil and buckwheat, it’s a win-win. They’re both tasty, good for us, and good for the environment.