Koppert Cress has launched Melissa Cress. Melissa Cress is an aromatic mix of mint flavors. When bruised, it has a subtle citrus scent, reminiscent of citrus zest. It can be used in combination with sweet products. These are products such as crustaceans, molluscs, and white fish.
You can also use it with vegetables like pumpkin, sweet potato, and fennel. Or with citrus or sour apples. It is suited to Asian cuisine but can also be combined with rich flavors such as lamb, cheese, and game. Melissa Cress can be used to add flavor and aroma to sparkling water and other drinks too.
Melissa Cress is Melissa officinalis sprouts. The botanical name, 'Melissa', is derived from the Latin word for 'honey bee'. This name was chosen because the plant has an abundance of nectar in its flowers. The variety is native to Southern Europe and the area from the Mediterranean to Central Asia. It has, however, spread across the rest of the world as an exotic species.
This plant is also known as citrus balsam or, more generally, balsam mint. It is a perennial, herbaceous plant and forms part of the mint family. The leaves of the mature plant have a mild citrus scent which smells similar to mint.
Koppert Cress is continuously looking for natural, innovative ingredients. Chefs can then use these to intensify the taste, aroma, and presentation of their dishes. These products must meet the increasingly strict demands of restaurants worldwide.
Cresses are fresh, germinated sprouts of aromatic plants that are 100% natural. These plants offer a freshness and intensity of flavor and aroma that can only be found in sprouts.
For more information:
Koppert Cress
1 De Poel
2681 MB Monster, NL
Tel: +31 (0) 174 242 819
Fax: +31 (0) 174 283 252
www.benelux.koppertcress.com