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Especially Puglia

From Puglia to your table

Holiday Must-Try Dishes and Sweets from Puglia

In Puglia, the holidays taste as good as they look! Here, the holiday season is a time to gather around the table and enjoy food that connects generations. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, New Year’s, or just the season, Puglia’s festive table is a feast for the senses! So, let’s dive into the mouth-watering dishes and sweets that make Pugliese holiday meals unforgettable.

Baccalà Fritto (Fried Salted Cod)

A classic holiday dish in Puglia, baccalà fritto (fried salted cod) is a must-try during Christmas Eve dinner. For many Pugliese families, Christmas Eve is a day of feasting without meat, with baccalà being the star of the meal. The cod is soaked, then fried to crispy perfection, offering a salty, savory bite that pairs beautifully with a side of seasonal vegetables or a splash of extra virgin olive oil.

Pettole

Nothing says holiday cheer in Puglia like pettole, small fried dough balls often enjoyed as a treat on Christmas Eve. These fluffy bites can be sweet or savory. Savory versions might include olives or anchovies, while the sweet ones are dusted with sugar. They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends, making them a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering. 

(If you have some of our extra virgin olive oil, it’s great for frying pettole – even better if it’s more than 2 years old!)

Zampone or Cotechino with Lentils

No Italian holiday meal is complete without zampone (stuffed pig’s trotter) or cotechino (a large pork sausage). In Puglia, these are traditionally enjoyed on New Year’s Eve, often paired with lenticchie (lentils). The lentils, believed to bring good luck, are simmered with the meats to create a hearty dish that represents prosperity for the year ahead.

Cartellate

For dessert, cartellate are a must-have. These traditional Pugliese pastries are shaped like small roses and deep-fried. Once crispy, they’re drenched in vin cotto (a syrup made from grape must) or honey, giving them a sweet, sticky finish. 

Paste di Mandorla (Almond Cookies)
Another holiday favorite is paste di mandorla, almond cookies that bring the taste of the region into every bite. Made with ground almonds, sugar, and a hint of orange blossom, these sweet treats are perfect with a cup of coffee. They’re a common sight on the tables of Puglia during the Christmas holidays and can also be gifted to loved ones.

Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner, a New Year’s feast, or simply enjoying the holiday season with family, Puglia’s festive foods will surely fill your home with warmth and joy! 

With a little help from local producers, you can bring the authentic taste of Puglia to your holiday table. From frying up crispy cartellate to drizzling over your favorite festive dishes, extra virgin olive oil is a must. Pre-order our EVOO, straight from our family-run partner groves in Puglia and elevate your holiday meals with that unmistakable Pugliese flavor!

Buon appetito!

The Aperitivo Ritual – Pugliese Style

Imagine the golden hour in Puglia, where the sun kisses the horizon and the sky turns into a canvas of warm colors. It’s the time when locals and visitors alike pause to indulge in a cherished Italian tradition – the aperitivo.

So, what exactly is this ritual? It’s more than just a pre-dinner drink; it’s a sacred moment to savor life’s simple pleasures. Picture finishing a hard day’s work, meeting up with friends at sunset for drinks, snacks, and some relaxed chat. Italians have mastered the art of living in the moment, and the aperitivo embodies this philosophy perfectly. It’s about slowing down, connecting with loved ones, and relishing the flavors of the land. It’s a testament to the Italian saying, “Il dolce far niente” – the sweetness of doing nothing – and doing it well!

In Puglia, the aperitivo tradition fits just right with the region’s relaxed lifestyle. See yourself in the vineyards, holding a glass of local Primitivo as the sun sets in beautiful colors. Or, feel the calm of the sea, smelling freshly baked focaccia in the salty breeze. These are the moments where the spirit of Puglia shines brightest!

Pugliese Aperitivo

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the food. In true Pugliese fashion, the aperitivo is all about simplicity and quality. How to craft a delicious aperitivo Pugliese style?

Start with golden-brown taralli, crisp and savory, perfect for nibbling between sips of wine. Pair them with plump, briny olives, harvested from the soil of Puglia.

But why stop there? Dive into a plate of bruschette or friselle, topped with ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

And let’s not forget about the focaccia – a staple of Pugliese cuisine. Soft, pillowy dough, kissed with just the right amount of salt and olive oil, it’s the perfect canvas for a variety of toppings. Whether you prefer classic cherry tomatoes and oregano or indulgent slices of creamy burrata, there’s a flavor combination to suit every palate.

Now, pair your Pugliese aperitivo with the right drink, perhaps a glass of refreshing Primitivo wine straight from the region’s vineyards, and you’ll create an aperitivo experience that will make you feel the taste of Puglia!

So, why not embrace the aperitivo and experience Puglia’s slow living for yourself? Join our farmstay tours and immerse yourself in the authentic Pugliese lifestyle!

Here’s to living like the Pugliese, one aperitivo at a time. Salute!

The Art of Slow Living in Puglia

In Puglia, ‘slow living’ is more than a catchphrase; it’s a philosophy and a practical approach to everyday life. Here, people don’t just live – they savor each moment. It’s about taking the time to enjoy the simple pleasures, like a leisurely stroll through the market or a long lunch with friends. This lifestyle is deeply rooted in Italian culture, and Pugliese people have embraced it wholeheartedly.

What is Slow Living?

The Pugliese people don’t chase life; they savor it, step by leisurely step. In Puglia, slow living unfolds through a series of cherished daily rituals. 

Imagine starting your day with an espresso at a local café, where the barista knows your name and your order by heart. You’re not rushed; there’s time to enjoy each sip. 

Then, imagine sitting on a bench by the waterfront, watching fishermen bring in fresh octopus and sea urchins. Or taking afternoon strolls through vineyards and olive groves, picking fruits straight from the trees. Picture yourself enjoying a convivial “aperitivo” hour, clinking glasses and sharing appetizers. 

Later, join the evening “passeggiata,” strolling through buzzing streets after dinner. You might see elderly folks gathered on sidewalks, engaged in conversation under the summer sky. And don’t forget vibrant market mornings, where lively exchanges revolve around fresh, seasonal produce…

These are just a few snapshots of a lifestyle that values connection, tradition, and the simple joys of life.

Slow Food

We can’t really talk about slow living without talking about slow food. It’s no secret – mealtime in Italy is an event in itself. Slow food in Puglia is a way of life that’s savored one bite at a time. 

Picture this: a family gathers around a table set with heirloom ceramics. There’s “orecchiette” made by hand, just as Michele’s mom makes, tossed with ripe tomatoes and basil picked from the garden.

There’s “focaccia barese,” warm from the oven, drizzled with olive oil pressed from the groves you can see from your window. Ingredients are locally sourced, often from the very markets you walked through earlier. Dinners are unhurried, leading to lingering conversations over a shot of “limoncello”.

This is what slow food in Puglia is all about – gathering, sharing, and connecting with the land, the seasons, and each other. This is the taste of Puglia – authentic, rich, and unforgettably slow.

Live slowly and sweetly like a Pugliese!

To live in Puglia is to embrace the art of slow living. It’s to appreciate that the best moments are those that unfold naturally, without haste. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best way to move forward is to slow down, cherishing every moment and every experience.

So, we invite you to step into our world, to taste, to feel, to live at the Pugliese pace. Join our farmstay tours and immerse yourself in the authentic Pugliese lifestyle! Welcome to la dolce vita, welcome to Puglia!

Pasquetta: Experience the Italian Spring Holiday Like a Pugliese

Credits to @anto_nymay

Have you heard of Italian “Pasquetta”? It literally means “Little Easter” in Italian, and it’s the informal name for the Monday after Easter. This is a national holiday, and Italians love it!

While Easter is often spent at home with relatives around the table, Pasquetta is all about going outside for fun. Think picnics and barbecues, enjoying good food and great company with family or friends outdoors. It’s also common to visit a farm or an agriturismo, where they can see the animals, taste the local products, and learn about the rural traditions.

Most people, however, head to parks or the countryside, where they can eat outside and enjoy the fresh air. They’ll pack homemade food to bring along and share with everyone. One thing you can’t miss on Pasquetta? Grilling! The sizzle of meat on the grill is for sure Pasquetta’s signature sound. It’s a lovely way to spend time with loved ones, soaking up the warm weather of the first spring days. 

What do Pugliese eat for Pasquetta?

The Pasquetta lunch in Puglia usually consists of several dishes, from appetizers to desserts, that can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, and are easy to transport and share. 

People typically kick off the Pasquetta meal with cold cuts, known as “affettati”, which means “sliced” in Italian, because they are usually served in thin slices on a large platter or a wooden board. Affettati can include different types of salami, ham, prosciutto, mortadella, bresaola and more. They can also be paired with cheese, such as mozzarella, ricotta, or provolone. 

Something that can’t miss is the beloved focaccia, the flatbread typical from Puglia topped with tomatoes and olives. You’ll often find it at the center of the table to accompany appetizers or main courses.

The first course for the Pasquetta lunch in Puglia is normally a pasta dish. While lasagna steals the show for many, another common option is “pasta al forno”, or baked pasta. It consists of a layer of cooked pasta (usually rigatoni, tortiglioni, or mezzi rigatoni) mixed with a rich sauce of tomato and cheese.

Then, there’s the second course, which usually features grilled meats. Lamb takes the spotlight as the primary meat during the Easter period in Italy and remains a popular choice for Pasquetta barbecues. In Puglia, sausage – made from either veal or pork – is also a popular choice for grilling alongside lamb.

Finally, for desserts, a typical sweet in the Easter period in Italy is the “colomba”. It is a soft cake, shaped like a dove, with a crunchy topping of sugar and almonds. In Puglia, another beloved treat is “scarcelle”, traditional Easter pastries made with a simple dough of flour, eggs, butter, sugar, and flavorings. They are shaped into various forms, such as doves, lambs, baskets, or rings, and decorated with hard-boiled eggs, sugar sprinkles, or chocolate shavings. 

As you can see, the Pasquetta meal in Puglia is rich and varied. This delightful celebration truly embodies the spirit of Puglia’s lifestyle and love for simple pleasures, coming together with family and friends to enjoy good food in the open. Buona Pasquetta!

Mediterranean Diet: Puglia’s Secret to a Long & Happy Life

Have you ever wondered why people from Italy are known for their longevity and health? One of the reasons is their diet, which is based on the principles of the Mediterranean Diet. This is not a strict regimen or a fad, but a lifestyle that embraces the flavors, ingredients, and traditions of the Mediterranean region. In this blog post, we will explore what the Mediterranean Diet is and how you can incorporate some of its elements into your own diet.

What is the Mediterranean Diet?

The Mediterranean Diet is considered one of the healthiest types of diet in the world. It is not a one-size-fits-all approach, but rather a diverse and flexible pattern that can be adapted to different preferences, cuisines, and cultures. It is influenced by the dietary habits of the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea.

The Mediterranean Diet is a way of eating that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, herbs, spices, legumes, fish, and moderate amounts of dairy, eggs, poultry, and wine. It also encourages physical activity, social interaction, and mindful eating.

Puglia, in the south-east of Italy, is one of the regions that best represents the essence of the Mediterranean Diet, as its cuisine is based on local, seasonal, and fresh products that are prepared with simplicity and creativity. In Puglia food is not only a source of nourishment, but also of joy, pleasure, and connection.

One of the cornerstones of Pugliese cuisine and the Mediterranean Diet is olive oil. It comes from the fruit of olive trees, which grow abundantly in the regions of Puglia and southern Italy. Olive oil also adds a delicious and distinctive flavor to your dishes, bringing out the best of the ingredients. The best olive oil is extra virgin, which has the highest quality, freshness, and nutritional value. That’s why it’s essential to learn how to use extra virgin olive oil in your kitchen to fully enjoy its benefits.

Incorporating the Mediterranean Diet into your lifestyle

Even if you’re not currently living in a Mediterranean country, you can still enjoy the perks of the Mediterranean Diet. You can start by making some simple changes to your eating habits, such as:

  • Choose olive oil as your main source of fat. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can lower your risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Use it for cooking, dressing, and dipping. You can also adopt an olive tree from Puglia and receive your own EVOO directly at home.
  • Reduce your consumption of red and processed meats. They’re high in calories, fat, and salt, which can affect your weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Eat them sparingly, and choose lean, grass-fed, and hormone-free meat. Consider including white meats like chicken and turkey as alternatives.
  • Include more fish and seafood in your diet. Fish and seafood are excellent sources of protein and healthy properties such as omega-3 fatty acids. Try to eat at least two servings a week, opting for wild-caught and sustainable options.
  • Reduce added sugars and refined grains. These are two types of refined carbs that are low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Eat them occasionally, and choose whole-grain bread, pasta, and cereals instead. Use natural sweeteners, such as honey, maple syrup, or stevia.
  • Eat more fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and many other nutrients that support your immune system and digestive health. Aim for at least five servings a day, choosing a variety of colors, shapes, and textures.

These are some of the tips and examples of ingredients that can help you adopt a Mediterranean Diet. Of course, you can also experiment with your own recipes, using the principles and flavors of the Mediterranean Diet as a guide. The most important thing is to enjoy your food, and to share it with your family, friends, and loved ones. That’s the true spirit of Puglia, and the secret to a long and happy life!

   

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Especially Puglia
41 Flatbush Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11217
+1 (917) 889-5621
info@especiallypuglia.com