Basilicata is a region in southern Italy that boasts a rich and varied culinary tradition. Lucanian cuisine is characterized by simple and genuine ingredients that reflect the culture and history of the area. In this article, we will explore the main typical dishes of Basilicata, offering an overview of the culinary specialties that make this region unique.
Bread and Bakery Products
Matera bread
One of the iconic products of Basilicata is Pane di Matera, recognized as a PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) product. This bread is known for its crisp crust, soft crumb and unmistakable aroma. It is prepared with durum wheat semolina and sourdough, following ancient traditions that have been handed down for generations.
Focaccia Potentina
Focaccia alla Potentina is another delicious baked good typical of Basilicata. It is a tall, soft focaccia stuffed with simple ingredients such as tomatoes, onions and olives. It is perfect to enjoy as an appetizer or accompaniment during meals.
Primi Piatti
First Dishes
One of the most representative first courses of Lucanian cuisine is Lagane e Ceci. Lagane are a kind of fresh homemade pasta, similar to tagliatelle, but wider and thicker. This rustic and satisfying dish is traditionally prepared with chickpeas, extra virgin olive oil, garlic and chili peppers.
Orecchiette alla Materana
Orecchiette alla Materana represents another typical Basilicata delicacy. This delicious dish is prepared with a flavorful tomato-based sauce, enriched with tender pork and the characteristic cruschi peppers, known for their crunchiness and strong flavor. A combination of simple and genuine ingredients that results in a dish that brings out the authentic and intense flavors of Basilicata’s culinary tradition.
Main Dishes
Lucan-style lamb
Agnello alla Lucana is a traditional main course that enhances lamb meat, cooked with flavorings such as rosemary, garlic and pepper. It is often prepared in the oven, accompanied by potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the taste of the meat to be fully appreciated.
Baccalà alla Lucana
Baccalà alla Lucana is a popular fish dish in the cuisine of Basilicata. The salt cod, after being desalted, is cooked with tomatoes, onions, potatoes, and cruschi peppers. This is a particularly tasty dish that represents one of the many regional variations of salt cod.
Side dishes and Typical Products
Peperoni Cruschi
Peperoni Cruschi are a unique specialty of Basilicata. They are sun-dried sweet peppers that become crunchy and are often used to flavor meat and fish dishes. They are also tasty on their own as a crunchy snack.
Ciaudedda
Ciaudedda is a typical side dish from Basilicata, prepared with seasonal vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, potatoes and tomatoes. The vegetables are stewed together with olive oil, garlic and basil, creating a simple but very tasty dish.
Desserts
Strazzata
Strazzata is a traditional dessert often prepared during the holidays. It is a kind of sweet doughnut, flavored with aniseed and decorated with sugar, perfect to enjoy with a glass of sweet wine or coffee.
Calzoncelli
Calzoncelli are fried sweets typical of the holiday season. They are small calzones filled with chestnut cream, chocolate and spices, which are then fried and sprinkled with powdered sugar. These sweets perfectly represent the confectionery tradition of Basilicata.
Traditional Beverages
Aglianico del Vulture
Aglianico del Vulture wine is one of the finest wines of Basilicata. This red wine is produced in the Vulture area, a volcanic area that gives the wine a robust and complex flavor. Perfect to pair with meat dishes and aged cheeses.
Amaro Lucano
Amaro Lucano is a renowned liqueur originating in Basilicata, made from a fine blend of herbs and spices. Its recipe, jealously guarded and handed down from generation to generation, gives the liqueur a unique and unmistakable flavor. Perfect to enjoy as a digestive after a meal, Amaro Lucano represents an authentic expression of the region’s tradition and liquor-making mastery.
Quid Restaurant in Matera
If you are planning to visit Matera, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy lunch at Quid Restaurant. Located in the heart of Matera’s picturesque Sassi, it offers fine dining that promises a complete sensory experience. Taste our new Bistrot menu: innovative pairings, flavors and colors of our land and pursuit of excellence await you!
