Step 1: Take out the agretti from the packaging carefully
When you purchase agretti from the grocery store or the farmers market, it usually comes in a small bundle or tied with an elastic band. Take it out of the packaging carefully to prevent the agretti from breaking apart and losing its shape.
Step 2: Cut off the roots
Starting at the root end, carefully cut the roots off with a sharp kitchen knife. Be gentle and avoid cutting too much of the stem off, as the agretti’s unique shape is lost if you cut too much of the stem away.
Step 3: Place agretti in cold water
Once you’ve removed the roots, place the agretti in a bowl of cold water. Make sure that the agretti is fully submerged in the water, and allow it to soak for about 10-15 minutes. This soaking period will help to loosen the dirt and sand that may be on the leaves.
Step 4: Remove agretti from water and discard the water
After the agretti has soaked for 10-15 minutes, remove it from the water and discard the water. Do not pour the water back into the garden or plants, as it may contain sand, and hence hurt the plants.
Step 5: Repeat the cold water soak
Repeat the cold water soak at least two more times if you still find some sand or debris. This is crucial for getting rid of all the dirt and sand.
Step 6: Dry the agretti
After the final rinse, dry the agretti with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Take care that the leaves don’t break apart in the process of drying.
Step 7: Trim the agretti
If you see some wilted or brown leaves, or you find the ends of the agretti are quite dirty, you can trim them to keep the rest fresh and clean.
Conclusion
With these simple steps, you can perfectly clean agretti and use it to make delicious and nutritious Italian dishes. Remember, not cleaning agretti properly before using it in your cooking can be harmful, as you will accidentally consume sand, dirt, and debris.
By soaking the agretti in cold water, repeating the process, drying and trimming them, you can be sure you have cleaned them thoroughly, safely and hygienically. Cleaning like this takes care, but it’s quick to execute and leaves you with a delicious, fresh, and nutritious vegetable that adds a touch of Italian flair to your menu.