Orecchiette pasta from Puglia – 500g

The orecchiette are an authentic culinary delight and represent a typical pasta from the Puglia region, located in the southeast of Italy. This traditional dish is loved by both locals and tourists visiting the region, and is appreciated for its characteristic shape and unique flavor.

Orecchiette take their name from the Italian term “orecchia,” which means “ear,” as they vaguely resemble a small ear. This pasta is handmade by the skilled “massaie” of Puglia, women experienced in the culinary tradition of the region. The recipe requires only a few basic ingredients: durum wheat flour, water, and salt. The simplicity of the ingredients makes orecchiette an authentic and genuine dish, representing an excellence of Puglian cuisine.

The distinctive feature of orecchiette is their concave and rounded shape, with a smooth and thick texture. Each orecchietta has a small “cavity” on the convex side, which is perfect for capturing and holding the delicious sauces that accompany them. This pasta pairs wonderfully with a wide range of traditional sauces, such as meat ragù, olive sauce, fresh tomato sauce, and the famous “cime di rapa” or “broccoli di rapa.”

Another type of Puglian pasta, known as “fior di orzo,” differs from classic orecchiette in its flower-like shape. The preparation process for fior di orzo is similar to that of orecchiette, but the pasta is shaped into a more open and rounded form. This type of pasta is equally versatile and tasty, and can be paired with various sauces and ingredients, creating unique and delicious dishes.

Orecchiette and fior di orzo from Puglia are a popular choice for many regional dishes, including the famous “orecchiette with cime di rapa.” This dish is considered a classic of Puglian cuisine and is prepared using orecchiette as the base and cime di rapa, or broccoli di rapa, as the main condiment. The bitter flavor of cime di rapa perfectly complements the soft and enveloping texture of orecchiette, creating a symphony of unique flavors that will delight the palate of anyone who tastes them.

In conclusion, orecchiette and fior di orzo from Puglia are a wonderful representation of the culinary tradition of the Puglia region. Their characteristic shape, unique texture, and culinary versatility make them a must-try for pasta lovers and fans of Italian cuisine. If you have the opportunity to taste these Puglian delicacies, do not hesitate to do so, as they will immerse you in an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

This dish is made using barley instead of durum wheat flour. It is also traditionally cooked with tomato sauce, fresh basil, and pecorino, or with toppings such as meatballs, sausage, or cime di rapa.