green cracked souri olives 450g

eastern Mediterranean speciality

We’re delighted to be championing these Lebanese souri olives in the UK. Overshadowed by more commercial varieties from larger olive producing countries in the Mediterranean, souri olives are unique to the eastern Mediterranean. Grown at an altitude of 550 metres in Beino, north Lebanon, the “terroir” where these olives grow, as well as the climate, all contribute to the uniqueness of their taste. 

goodness

Zejd souri olives are picked when still green, which makes them rich in antioxidants. The pits (or stones) aren’t removed to help preserve their firm texture and make for a satisfying chew. This lets you savour their exceptionally aromatic and sharp taste.  

Lebanese curing 

Zejd’s green cracked olives are cured in a traditional way. Families in Lebanon will buy fresh green olives from farmers to cure at home, adding their own unique touch to the recipe. Zejd’s method follows the traditions of the region where they’re grown in north Lebanon. The olives are left to soak in water which is changed several times until it runs clear. Then they are “cracked” before being left in the preserving solution. Zejd’s recipe adds a little white grape vinegar to the salt and water.

use

In Lebanon olives appear at most meals, particularly breakfast with a little extra virgin olive oil and lemon. When pitted, they add a texture and flavour to a salad such as Claudia Roden’s green olive and walnut salad.

making your purchase go further

When the olives are finished, keep the remaining brine in the fridge and add a little to soups and stews. The jar will elegantly store dried fruit and nuts, or even marmalade!

For more stories about green cracked souri olives.