Welcome to a culinary journey to the sun-kissed region of Puglia, also known as "the heel of the Italian boot". This picturesque region in south-east Italy is blessed with a rich history, breathtaking scenery and an unrivalled gastronomic tradition.
Stretching from the Adriatic Sea in the east to the Ionian Sea in the west, Puglia offers not only an impressive coastline, but also a diverse culinary landscape ranging from fresh seafood to savoury bread dishes. Apulian cuisine is characterised by its simplicity, freshness and use of high-quality local ingredients.
The connection to agriculture and the Mediterranean climate is reflected in the dishes. Olive groves stretch across the hills, vines meander along the landscape and the Apulian sun gives the fruits and vegetables an unmistakable flavour.
Traditional Apulian cuisine includes a wide range of dishes, including the famous "frisa". This robust bread reflects the resilience and rustic charm of the region. It is combined with fresh ingredients from the region, such as juicy tomatoes, aromatic herbs and, of course, delicious olive oil.
This unique bread has a fascinating history dating back to the 17th century. Originally enjoyed by farmers and ranchers as a robust meal during hard labour in the fields, today frisa is experiencing a remarkable renaissance.
Frisa with cipolline & olives
The speciality of frisa lies in its dryness and toughness, which made it a long-lasting companion that could withstand the adversities of weather and time. Nowadays, this bread is often served as a Mediterranean lunch or as a delicious antipasti.
Preparing frisa is simple yet full of flavour. Immerse the bread in fresh, cold water for around 30 seconds to achieve its characteristic consistency. It is then topped with fresh beef tomatoes and Mediterranean delicacies such as capers, tuna and/or cheese. A generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil is a must.
Our recommendation for an unforgettable frisa experience:
Soak: Immerse the frisa in water for about 30 seconds.
Grate: Rub the bread with juicy beef tomatoes and fresh garlic.
Topping: Place a generous amount of capers, olives, pickled vegetables and/or onions with aceto on the bread.
To finish: Drizzle your creation with our peperoncino garlic olive oil.
Immerse yourself in the flavours of Puglia and let yourself be enchanted by the simple beauty of frisa. This dish is not only a journey into the past, but also a feast for your taste buds.
Buon Appetito!
Your Protos Mediterranean specialities team
