The seeds of lupins, commonly called lupin beans, were popular with the
Romans, who cultivated the plants throughout the Roman Empire.
The
European white lupin beans are commonly sold in a salty solution in jars. Rather
like olives are pickles lupin seeds can be eaten with or without the skin and
are a popular street snack in the southern Europe, after being treated with
several soakings of water, and then brined.
I am not
sure with the idea of lupin seeds will become the snack sensation at
Beaconsfield Farmers Market.
However
they do look lovely right now and are good for the soil. Roman agriculturalists
were adamant that this plant contributes to the fertility of the ground.
Coincidentally, I was discussing Lupins with a friend just yesterday. Apparently in certain parts of Europe the seeds are made into a flour. They are in the legume family, so basically they are a type of pea!
ReplyDeleteHaving never spent time in South Europe, I had no idea these were a street snack item. Fascinating post - can't wait to try at some point.
ReplyDelete