How to Brine your own Olives, Alpilles Style
Ashley Tinker · Local Food Producers · Taste
The Olive Culture of Les Alpilles
One of the ladies on our street gave Robin this as a gift when he came to the rescue and changed her gas bottle. She even put the olive branch on. It was so delicious I could have drunk the stuff, I practically did…
I was in the village café yesterday and felt an intense pang of admiration and jealousy all at once. An elderly gentleman came up to the person sitting next to me, presented him with a large bottle of viscous, deeply green liquid, and said, “happy new year!” (in French, of course). It was the unlabelled newly pressed olive oil from his family’s olive trees. How wonderful. I couldn’t think of a better seasonal gift.
to read Ashley’s post (and see her beautiful photos) of the olive groves in this part of Provence. Discover the village called the “Olive Capital of France,” and the olive variety that tastes a bit like an artichoke. But, mostly keep reading to learn about DIY brining.
More on Olives and the Alpilles
The Jean Martin Company in the Heart the Olives of Les Baux de Provence
Capturing Provencal Beauty in Photos Lumières des Alpilles
The Olive Groves of Provence
Fougasse with Olives and Cherry Tomatoes
The combination of sweet cherry tomatoes and tangy black olives make this focaccia-style bread a stunning addition to any meal. You can even enjoy it on its own with some olive oil or accompanying some soup for a well-rounded and delicious meal.
Check out this recipe
Savoury Ham and Olive Loaf - Cake aux Olives et Jambon
This recipe is simple and very forgiving. For example, you can add a little less flour and another egg instead, or add a little more cheese. Once you have the base you can make a vegetarian version with fresh goat cheese, semi-dried tomatoes and lots of thyme. Play with it to make it yours!
Check out this recipe
Duck Thighs in Olives and Tomatoes with Corn Pancakes
For the best results, allow enough time for the duck to slow-cook in the oven. Make the corn pancakes near the end of the cooking time and serve. This is a delicious, colourful dish.
Check out this recipe
Sea Bass with Olives and Cherry Tomatoes
Easy fish dinner with all the wonderful flavours of the Mediterranean.
Check out this recipe
Tomato Olive Tarts - Appetizer
There are a few steps to this recipe, but don't be put off. There is nothing complicated, and you will love the result. As a bonus, the little tart shells are a bit like savoury shortbread so you can serve those on their own. And, if you make too much olive tapenade, it will keep for a few days in the fridge.
Check out this recipe How to Make Provencal Olive Tapenades
How to Make a True Nicoise Salad by Giuseppina Mabilia @VeniseenProvence
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Ashley Tinker
Ashley was born and raised in Montréal, Canada. She has always been drawn to the history, way of life and beauty of Europe. Her feelings for Europe were reconfirmed while studying art in Florence, Italy. Ashley says that stone buildings, colourful shutters and terra cotta tile rooftops fill her dreams and now her days.
Ashley moved to Provence in 2014 with her partner Robin (he also shares her Francophile passions). They are in search of the French joie de vivre, which they find at every turn in the local markets and natural beauty of Provence. This couple are indulging in local olives and wine as the Provencal sunshine changes craggy rocks into things of beauty.
You can see all of Ashley's blog posts on Curious Provence.
Take a look at Ashley's beautiful fine art photography on her Photographer in Provence website.
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