Why do Brits call arugula rocket?
Well, the answer lies in the fascinating history of language and culinary traditions. The English refer to the leafy green as rocket, a term borrowed from the French word “roquette.” On the other hand, Americans use the term arugula, which is derived from the Italian word “rucola.”
Language is a living, evolving entity, influenced by various factors such as history, culture, and migration. In this case, the different names for arugula reflect the diverse culinary influences that have shaped the British and American food scenes.
Rocket, or roquette, has a long history in French cuisine. The French have been cultivating and consuming this peppery leafy green for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region and was brought to France by the Romans. Over time, it became a staple ingredient in French salads, soups, and sauces.
During the medieval period, French cuisine had a significant influence on English cooking. French chefs and culinary techniques were highly esteemed, and many French words and terms found their way into the English vocabulary. This is why the English adopted the term “rocket” to refer to this particular leafy green.
On the other side of the Atlantic, arugula made its way to America through Italian immigrants. Italians have been growing and consuming arugula for centuries as well. In Italy, it is known as “rucola” or “ruchetta.” Italian cuisine has a strong presence in the United States, thanks to the waves of Italian immigration in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This is why Americans use the term arugula, as it reflects the Italian influence on their culinary traditions.
It’s interesting to note that even within the United Kingdom, there are regional variations in naming this leafy green. In some parts of the country, it is referred to as “rocket,” while in others, it may be called “rucola” or “arugula.” This is a testament to the diverse linguistic and cultural influences within the UK itself.
The different names for arugula, whether rocket or arugula, are a result of the historical and cultural influences on the English language. The French term “roquette” and the Italian term “rucola” have both left their mark on the English vocabulary, reflecting the rich tapestry of culinary traditions that have shaped our food preferences today.
