Gourmet Food

The dictionary defines gourmet as relating to or preparing high quality food that is sophisticated, expensive, rare, or meticulously prepared. Gourmet food is all of that and more. In this unique world of food, dolled up jam turns out to be chutney. Similarly, dill dip takes on a completely new taste with the addition of beau monde seasoning salt. The secret is that a little extra time in preparation and selection of ingredients makes a meager meal magnificient.

The specialty food business is a $24 billion dollar industry literally encompassing everything from soup to nuts. Examples of gourmet food include hand-crafted cheeses, artisan breads, exotic spices, coffees, teas, and decadent desserts. An abundant supply awaits the most discriminating of tastes. No longer tucked away in quaint little shops, gourmet food is everywhere. Grocery stores carry major gourmet brands, and have even developed their own product lines. If you can’t find it where you shop, the internet provides a myriad of options.

Viewed by many as the ultimate gourmet food, caviar is also one of the most expensive upscale treats. Caviar is the roe (eggs) of a large fish, typically sturgeon. Beluga is the top of the line caviar that hails from Russia near the Caspian Sea. Other varieties come from salmon and wild herring. Bottarga, sometimes called poor man’s caviar, comes from from dried tuna roe and is easier on the budget. A high protein delicacy, caviar is best served chilled on a bed of ice with crackers, or toast points, and chilled vodka. The serving spoon should be wood, gold, or mother of pearl. It is best not to use silver because it can alter the taste of the caviar.

Abiding by the dictionary’s definition of gourmet, there are thousands of fine foods that fit the bill. Whether choosing to dine out, or display your at home culinary talents, consider a sampling of these options. Some of the items tend to be part of our everyday culture. Therefore, they are often overlooked as fine gourmet treats.

• Balsamic Vinegar - These premium vinegars have been aged for over twelve years and can only be produced in Modena and Reggio Emilia in Italy. They are aged in oak, acacia, mulberry, chestnut, or cherry barrels. Some are sweet enough to use as a dip for strawberries, and are one of the best marinades for meat.
• Olive Oil - This oil from pressed olives comes in varying degrees of acidity, which refers to the proportion of fatty acids not taste. Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Choices are virgin, extra virgin, and ordinary virgin. Best uses are as a salad dressing, light sautéing and as a condiment. Available as infused, organic and flavored.
• Parmigiano Reggiano - Popular food shows have taught the difference between the real thing and the stuff in the green plastic jar. This flavorful cheese is not just for grating. It is full of flavor and elegant enough to pair with the best of wines and artisan breads. Parmigiano Reggiano is produced in the provinces of Parma, Reggio Emilia, and Modena, Italy.
• Escargot - There are 116 varieties of edible snails. Their texture is similar to lobster with an earthy flavor. Coming in at only 3 calories each, escargot is low in carbohydrate grams and nutrient dense. The traditional pool of butter they are served in adds the hefty calorie count. A dry white wine complements their flavor.
• Truffles - Not the candy, the mushroom. Truffles grow underground with a color of almost black to off white. The black ones are the most pungent and the most expensive. Infusing the mushrooms with olive oil is the easiest way to enjoy them. They are perfect as a condiment with their robust taste. Try truffles slices or oil in salads, cold dishes, or sprinkled on prepared dishes.

Does gourmet coffee intrigue you? Think Starbuck’s. For some a jaunt to the nearest one is an everyday occurrence, often taking away its existence as gourmet. Other gourmet foods can be found on the go as well. For example, Godiva chocolate is a sumptuous celebration of gourmet chocolate and often found in bite-size morsels around town.

Fine food combinations are endless and new lines evolve on a regular basis. Eating gourmet isn’t just about the food. Consider ambience and attitude. The most mundane meal can be made elegant by enjoying the eating experience. Much is to be said about slowing down and taking the time to prepare a satisfying meal. Whether it costs $10.00 or $100.00, you have to eat so buy the freshest ingredients you can afford, use your best dinnerware, and enjoy the company, even if you’re dining by yourself.

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