Nebrodi Hazelnut
As a consequence of the crisis of mulberry farming, around 1890 the slopes of the middle and high hills were interested by the diffusion of another protagonist of Nebrodi rural landscape: the hazelnut tree. Already cultivated in the past in the territory of Tortorici, thanks to its adaptation skills, its very thick roots preventing soil erosion, and its productivity this cultivation successfully replaced the mulberry farming.
Hazelnut groves, covering about 12,000 ha and with a very rich genetic heritage, provide top-quality products. Among the main cultivars: Curcia, Carrello, Ghirara, the various Minnulare. Hazelnuts are largely used in the local confectionery to prepare ice-creams, chilled desserts, and characteristic desserts like royal pastry, nougat, and other traditional products.
