Rosso di Verona is the insider’s choice of the red heading chicories. Relatively unknown in the US market, it doesn’t have the flashy appeal of the the tall Treviso Precoce, or the ubiquitous market power of the Chioggia, but its wonderful production and culinary characteristics make it a favorite. One of the older types, Rosso di Verona dates back to the 18th century when, like most radicchio of the time, it was produced by forcing. Through generations of selection it became the field heading variety we recognize today. Named after their center of production in the Veneto, Rosso di Verona are characterized by their small size (about the size of a large fist), compact egg-shaped heads, and prominent central white midrib on the leaves. While they are more assertive in their bitterness than other red heading types, there is a lovely interplay between the bitterness of the leaf and the sweetness of the white midrib, especially into periods of consistent frosts. Primarily a cooking radicchio, its manageable size is perfect for wedging and grilling, roasting or sauteing. A top choice for pizza toppings, grilled veg + radicchio sandwiches, or tossed with pasta. 60-65 days from transplant. Photo and text courtesy of Uprising Seeds.
Gusto Italiano Project is a collaboration between Culinary Breeding Network, Uprising Seeds and northern Italian vegetable breeders at Smarties.bio. The project was born from a mutual love of radicchio and a desire to further establish it as an anchor of the fall and winter produce season here in North America, and specifically the Pacific Northwest. This special line of certified organic radicchio and regional specialty Brassica seeds was bred and grown in Italy by the incredible folks at Smarties.bio. Based in Chioggia, the heart of radicchio’s motherland, Smarties.bio exists at the crossroads of tradition and innovation by bringing years of modern breeding experience to classic, culturally significant vegetables of their region.
More information can be found on the following:
www.culinarybreedingnetwork.com
Culinary Breeding Network
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