September 2005

Rocket

Rocket (also known as arugala), is an upright, mustard-like annual with asymmetrical, toothed leaves. When picked young and tender, rocket has a more tangy than peppery character. When used at this stage, Rocket is perfect as a garnish or as an accompaniment to fish or on sandwiches.

After the first cut, the rocket grows again and the next leaves are thicker with a more fibrous stem. The peppery taste is more pronounced and a mustard and/or nutty influence is often present.

It can be used in a variety of ways, such as salads or mesclun mixes, frittatas or with pasta. Rocket goes with a number of things - olive oil, mustard, toasted hazelnuts, potatoes, eggs, bread and most cheeses and it is perfect for Spring eating.

Sarah Smith from Sarjay Pty Ltd at Gulgong grows rocket along with other vegetables such as white, raddish, purple topped turnips and carrots. Sarah, a relative new-comer to the Orange market, is really enjoying the interaction with her customers, especially the feedback she receives.

Sarjay Pty Ltd - Sarah Smith
Phone - 02 6374 1070 or
Mob - 0418 727 527

This recipe for rocket was supplied Peter Thoms from Provvista Wood Fire Pizza Restaurant

Venison, beetroot and goat's cheese pizza
with baba ghanoush, fresh rocket and toasted hazelnuts

4 tblsp. Baba ghanoush
6 slices rare roasted venison
1 bunch beetroot
6 shallots
200 grams baby spinach leaves
100 grams goat's cheese
Fresh rocket and toasted hazelnuts with balsamic vinaigrette
1 pizza base

Step 1:
Peel beetroot and shallots and cut into small pieces. Toss in olive oil, salt and pepper and roast in moderate oven until soft and golden. Set aside and keep warm.

Step 2:
Spread baba ghanoush onto pizza base and top with all the ingredients except the rocket and hazelnuts.

Step 3:
Cook pizza in very hot oven until golden brown.

Step 4:
Slice pizza and top with rocket and nut salad.

Step 5:
Just eat it!!

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