Castelluccio di Norcia Lentils IGP 500g

The Castelluccio di Norcia lentil is an Umbrian legume under the IGP designation. This ancient legume is evidenced by its presence in tombs found dating back about 3000 years. The Castelluccio lentil is an annual legume, planted in winter and harvested between July and August. The result is a lentil completely different from an organoleptic point of view compared to others on the market. The harsh climate, typical of the Sibillini mountains, makes the cultivation of lentils difficult but at the same time unique; the production per hectare is very low, making this a niche product that is hard to find. The characteristics of Castelluccio lentils, besides their high nutritional value, include a thin skin that does not require soaking before cooking, small seed size, and especially their resistance to pests, thanks to the harsh microclimate in which they grow. Pairings: Castelluccio lentils are easy to prepare; just put them in water, cook with garlic, celery, carrots, and spices, and before finishing the dish, add croutons and extra virgin olive oil. Lentils are rich in iron, phosphorus, and potassium, and are recommended for those who need a diet rich in these elements. They are also rich in proteins, fibers, and mineral salts. Storage: Keep the product in a dry and cool place, and once cooked, consume in a short time. Processing: The Castelluccio di Norcia lentil is a legume that finds its home in a territory about 1500 meters above sea level, with harsh winters where temperatures drop below 0 °C. In early spring, the land is plowed, followed by sowing, and in June, flowering begins. The colors of this legume are pink, attracting many tourists from all over Europe to photograph the beauty of the blooms. Harvesting takes place in July; the lentils are placed in small piles and left to dry, followed by threshing, and in September, they are taken to the cooperative.