Mock Olives Recipe

Mock olives are a delightful and unique alternative to traditional olives. While olives are native to the Mediterranean region, mock olives originated in America during the colonial era when olive trees were rare and hard to come by. This creative recipe was developed as a way to mimic the flavors and textures of olives using locally available ingredients.

To make mock olives, you will need plums that are just beginning to ripen but are still green. The green plums provide a firm texture and a sourness that resembles the flavor of olives. The plums are then preserved in a brine made from sea salt or rock salt. The brine should be strong enough to hold up an egg, ensuring that it has enough salt to properly preserve the fruit.

The first step is to pour the hot brine over the green plums, which have been washed and pitted. It is important to cover the plums with the brine and let them stand for twenty-four hours. This allows the plums to absorb the flavors of the brine and develop a tangy taste reminiscent of olives.

After the initial brining period, you will need to pour off the brine and prepare a new one. Heat the new brine and add the plums, allowing them to heat for one minute. This step further enhances the flavor of the mock olives and ensures that they are properly preserved. Finally, seal the plums in the hot brine to maintain their freshness.

Mock olives are a versatile ingredient that can be used in various culinary preparations. They add a unique twist to salads, antipasti platters, and even cocktails. Their tangy and slightly sour taste pairs well with creamy cheeses, cured meats, and crusty bread. Mock olives can also be enjoyed on their own as a flavorful snack or accompaniment to a cheese and charcuterie board.

Fun Fact: Mock olives were popular during times when olive trees were scarce in America, especially in regions where olives couldn't easily be grown. This inventive recipe allowed people to enjoy the taste of olives without relying on imported ingredients.

Similar to mock olives, there are other dishes around the world that mimic the flavors and textures of traditional olives. Here are a few examples:

1. Greek Dolmas: These are vine leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, spices, and sometimes meat. They are often served as an appetizer and have a similar tangy and savory taste to olives.

2. Spanish Alcaparrones: These are pickled caperberries that resemble large green olives. They have a slightly tart and briny flavor, making them an excellent substitute or addition to olive-based recipes.

3. Italian Olive all'Ascolana: This dish features large green olives stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. The stuffed olives are then breaded and fried, resulting in a delicious and savory treat.

4. Lebanese Pickled Turnips: These brightly colored pickled turnips are a common accompaniment to traditional Lebanese mezze platters. They have a crisp texture, tangy taste, and a vibrant pink color similar to some marinated olives.

Whether you're looking for a unique twist on traditional olives or want to explore different flavors, mock olives and similar dishes offer a delightful culinary adventure. Try experimenting with these recipes and discover new ways to enjoy the bold and distinctive flavors reminiscent of olives.