CentumbrieLegumes
Legumes
Organically grown in fields owned by Centumbrie, without the use of pesticides or herbicides. A short, monitored supply chain and the microclimate of Lake Trasimeno make for a line of legumes with very unique characteristics.
A SINCERE EXPRESSION OF LAND AND SEASONALITY, LEGUMES, OR "THE POOR MAN’S MEAT", ARE ALWAYS ON UMBRIAN TABLES. THEY REPRESENT NOURISHMENT AND A WAY TO HAND DOWN OLD FLAVORS. TASTY AND SATISFYING, LEGUMES ARE THE GUARDIAN OF COUNTLESS BENEFICIAL VIRTUES.
The company owns a small but valuable piece of equipment that handles the entire process, from the selection of the best pods to packaging. Even for the legume food chain, we carefully oversee all the stages of production, from organic cultivation to final processing in order to ensure quality consumption that is transparent and traceable. Legumes are a valuable source of protein and minerals, easy to grow and cook, naturally low in fat and high in fiber. They are a healthy and unique food that can be consumed several times a week and is an important resource for the world's food future.
Legumes are harvested between July and August. They are packaged in 500gr and 1kg formats for lentils and chickpeas; 250 gr for the Trasimeno bean.
RECOMMENDED USE
Store in a cool, dry place. Sift the product to remove impurities and wash thoroughly before cooking. Soaking is recommended for all products except the Trasimeno bean. Legumes are delicious in soups, creams and salads with the addition of extra virgin olive oil.
LENTILS
Lentils are one of the world’s oldest crops. The pod boasts a significant source of protein, fiber, iron, magnesium and potassium. Highly nutritious and energetic, lentils represent healthy eating. In full compliance with organic farming, CM Centumbrie lentils are grown in the hills around Lake Trasimeno, without the use of pesticides or herbicides.
The specific variety we grow has a strong, persistent flavor and holds its shape during cooking better than other types. Soil management involves frequent tilling of the topsoil and false seed-bed techniques to contain weeds.
Lentils are sown between February and March and after about two months, the plant is in full bloom. Harvesting takes place between July and August. If necessary, the lentils are let to dry before undergoing the process of cleaning and packaging.
CHICKPEAS
The chickpea plant is an ancient one, native to western Asia. Thanks to its high protein, this legume is a valuable source of energy and nutrition. Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins A, B, C, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and zinc, it has earned the definition of "superfood," and is essential for a rich, healthy diet. It is a first choice for vegetarians, vegans and anyone following a gluten-free life style. CM Centumbrie chickpeas are grown organically, in the pristine areas of Lake Trasimeno. They are of the "wrinkled chickpea" variety, highly prized for their rough surface that holds seasonings well and for their high digestibility. The plants are grown in open fields with seeding that varies according to the soil, that is, using a row seeder vs. a precision seeder. The latter reduces the cultivable area but ensures weed control. Chickpeas are ideal for crop rotation as the plant enriches the soil with nitrogen and its deep roots improve sod structure. The planting period is between March and April.
THE TRASIMENO BEAN
Slow Food Presidium
The Fagiolina del Trasimeno, or Trasimeno bean, was already widespread as a food in the times of the Etruscan, predating the Romans. Unlike other legumes, Trasimeno beans ripen in phases. The small, oval-shaped, multicolored beans must necessarily be harvested by hand every day and over the span of a couple of weeks. Those lucky enough to taste this rare legume will be rewarded with a true culinary experience. Unique in flavor, the Trasimeno bean is distinguished by how delicate it is. It has a thin skin which is extremely pleasant to the palate. The flesh is fine, soft, buttery and particularly flavorful. This rich source of nutrition is gluten-free and highly digestible, making it suitable for just about everyone. Lentil plants are planted along the shores of Lake Trasimeno—their native production area—between April and June, and are protected and reproduced by Slow Food Presidium growers. The Trasimeno Bean in Centumbrie is grown organically, respecting the land and the species.