We love Puglia! Situated in the heel of the boot, Puglia cuisine is based on the mother of all- the olive tree! The region is rich in olive trees, providing more olives than any other region of Italy - some 3000 years old! Along with wild greens, grains, beans and delicious wines these provide the cornerstone of the diets.
The health benefits of this type of eating is widely recognized and is the quintessentail "Meditterean Diet". Not much dairy is consumed except for some lovely locally produced ricotta and artisnal cheeses. You will not find eggs or cream used in their pastas, sauces and breads.
Surrounded by the sea- the Adriatic Sea is 15 min to the east and the Ionian Sea is 15 min to the west-there is a rich variety of local seafood as well.
Peasant in nature, uncomplicated, deeply satisfying and nutritous way of eating - I am happy to share these recipes with you straight from the heart of Puglia!
(PS JOIN US IN MAY 24-31 2020 FOR A WEEK IN THIS SPLENDID AND NOT YET DISCOVERED BY MANY PART OF ITALY!!)
A Taste of Puglia!
-Fava Bean Puree Crostini - Dried fava beans, cooked and pureed with fabulous olive oil makes a delicious appetizer straight from Puglia!
- Focaccia Pugliese - Different than the focaccia of the North, this version is less yeasty and topped with cherry tomatoes, black olives and onions. A bit biscuity and deeply satisfying!
-Orchiette con Cime di Rape ( Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe)- This is the quintessential pasta dish of the region. We will hand form the "little ears" from a pasta dough made only with flour and water. Sauteed with broccoli rabe sauce flavored with anchovies, a bit of red pepper flakes and toasted breadcrumbs as a topping this dish offers a complexity of flavors and depth!
Fun to make once you get the hang of it!!! :)
-Mini Polpettoncini Stuffed with Mushrooms and Cheese- Savory little bundles (think of them a teeny meatloaves) made from ground veal, stuffed with mushrooms and cheese and then baked. An unfussy and yummy crowd pleaser!
-Apple Puffs -Simple puff pastry lined with thinly sliced apples soaked in Limoncello and spread with a hint of marmalade. Delicious and easy finish!