A FEW WORDS ABOUT STAMNAGATHI
Stamnagathi (cichorium spinosum) belongs to the category of wild radish, has a bitter taste and is eaten raw, boiled or accompanied with other dishes such as lamb or kid .
Thename comes from the thorn got that surrounds it and the good old days when it was used as a protection area is the pitcher where people put and carried water. So named stamnagathi which is a compound word pitcher + thorn .
Stamnagathi known as food, but in the old days , the Cretans used it as a herb . The ancient physicians even used it as medicine. Itis now known the valuable properties as an antioxidant , rich in vitamin C, contains linoleic acid , an essential ingredient that removesthe fat that accumulates in our arteries , raw is ideal to detoxify theliver , reduce blood sugar and is a potent diuretic those who want to regulate their blood pressure. Even the root juice is suitable for burns.
It first appeared in the snowy and rugged mountains of Chania and on rocky cliffs in the sea area of the Wild Gramvousa .
Genuinestamnagathi be Cretan , dark green in color, very curly - scissor in shape, bitter in taste and is always accompanied by extra virgin olive oil, to keep its natural parfume.
As far as cooking recipes are diverse and interesting , that easily everyone finds on the internet. In Crete, how popular are:
RAW : It's a kind of salad . After the wash very well put it in the dish with little olive oil , vinegar or lemon juice and salt if you want . We can also do mixed with cabbage or lettuce and garnish in many dishes .
BOILED : For 4 servings you will need about 1 pound stamnagathi . Wash it well and pour it into the pot of boiling water, so as to cover it . Leave for 10-12 minutes and after straining a little Serve the dish with oil, lemon and salt.
WITH LAMB OR GOAT : lamb or kid, lemon sauce accompanied with stamnagathi instead of any other herb. ( Recipe is easily) .
Finally it should be said that the broth of Stamnagathi is a very important drink for the body. It is soothing to those suffering from ulcers and gastritis .
JUICE WITH HONEY : Perfect drink for anyone suffering from the stomach .
JUICE WITH LEMON : Perfect drink for detoxification.
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