Vegeto
Great Taste Award winner 2023 — the name comes from a Latin word meaning ‘to enliven’ and ‘invigorate.’ Inspired by ancient Roman cookery, this 1st-century AD all-purpose herb and spice blend draws from the flavours celebrated by Marcus Gavius Apicius, the Roman gourmet who compiled De Re Coquinaria (The Art of Cooking), the only surviving cookbook from the Roman Empire. Numerous recipes in the book feature the Vegetō flavour.
Taste
Perfect For
Scent
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Paprika
Often associated with Hungarian cuisine, its origins lie in North America. However it was Christopher Columbus who brought peppers to Europe in the 16th Century. Paprika comes from ground red peppers. It's compound is considered for its strong anti-inflammatory properties with it also having a good source of Vitamin A, E and B6.
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Basil
Cultivated for over 5,000 years its origins are said to come from India. It is a close relative to the mint family. There are almost 60 different varieties. Dried basil is considered to be more concentrated in nutrients. It is often suggested that it may promote benefits for a healthy brain and its anti-ageing properties.
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Parsley
Native to the Mediterranean region, it is typically grown right across Europe. Rich in a yield of antioxidants known as flavonoids and carotenoids, these are often considered for their properties in lowering the risk of some serious diseases. Some studies suggest that dried Parsley has 17 times more antioxidants than that of fresh parsley.
Origin
The inspiration behind this blend is deeply rooted in the experience of Camelēr Spice Co.'s alchemist and Co-founder working in Italian and Spanish kitchens, learning from master chefs about the importance of ingredients. These cuisines, known for their simplicity and depth, use herbs and spices harmoniously to elevate dishes. Our passion for culinary history also led to the British Library, where we discovered “De Re Coquinaria,” an ancient Roman cookbook. The insights gained from the historical culinary practices, inspired the creation of a blend that captures Mediterranean cooking's essence.
The name “Vegetō,” derived from Latin, means “to enliven” or “to invigorate,” reflecting the blend's purpose to bring life and vibrancy to dishes. Creating Vegetō was a meticulous process, inspired by rich flavours from Italian and Spanish kitchens and ancient Roman cuisine. The blend includes celery salt, paprika, garlic, basil, cumin seeds, black pepper, chilli flakes, and parsley, chosen for their ability to enhance and complement each other, creating a symphony of flavours.
Achieving the perfect alchemy for Vegetō involved numerous trials and errors. Some early batches were too bold, while others lacked complexity. After countless adjustments and feedback from chefs and home cooks, the perfect combination was found and became an award-winning blend that enhances a variety of dishes without overpowering them. Vegetō is versatile, perfect for sprinkling on roasted vegetables, mixing into marinades, or stirring into soups and stews.
Vegetō is more than a spice blend; it’s a celebration of the Mediterranean lifestyle, embodying fresh, wholesome ingredients and the joy of sharing meals. Creating Vegetō was a labour of love, reflecting the heart and soul of Camelēr Spice Co., where tradition meets innovation, and every spice tells a story. Experience the magic of Vegetō and transform your cooking into a Mediterranean feast.
Allergen Information
- Vegan
- Low sodium
- No additives
- No added sugar
- No preservatives
Some of our blends will be gluten free, but it is important to note that some spices and herbs naturally contain gluten.
It is also important to note that these have been packaged in a facility that handles, stores, and processes tree nuts and celery. This product may contain traces of celery, gluten, mustard, sesame, soy and nuts.
How to Use
With a base smokiness to the blend and a mild heat, use 1-2 teaspoons on roasted or stir-fry vegetables by adding before, during or after cooking. Adding it to a good quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar would also make a beautifully seasoned salad dressing. Vegetō is a perfect match for beans on toast, lentil-based dishes and all things vegetarian, like vegetable pizza. Try it on a roast vegetable tart with a puff pastry base. It will add that extra “je ne sai quoi” to your lunch or dinner options, even with plenty of enjoyment for all those cold left overs.
