Candlemas, a holiday where delicious crepes are enjoyed, is celebrated every year on February 2nd. This ancient tradition, of pagan origin, was integrated into the Christian calendar as the feast of the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple. But did you know that Candlemas is celebrated differently in Southern Italy, the birthplace of the Lucangeli brand? In this article, we invite you to discover Italian Candlemas, where Mediterranean traditions and the art of the crepe meet.
The origins of Candlemas: between sacred and popular traditions
Candlemas, also called Candelora in Italy, has its origins in ancient Rome. At that time, Romans celebrated the Lupercalia in honor of the god of fertility, Lupercus. These festivities were accompanied by purification and fertility rites, notably the race of the Luperci, priests who ran through the streets striking passersby with goat skin thongs. These celebrations were also associated with the end of winter and the beginning of spring.
From ancient Rome to Christian traditions
With the Christianization of the Roman Empire, pagan celebrations were replaced by Christian holidays. Thus, the feast of the Lupercalia was replaced by the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple, 40 days after his birth. The Candlemas tradition then consists of lighting candles in honor of the divine light brought by Christ.
Candelora in Italy: rituals and symbolism
In Italy, Candelora retains a strong spiritual dimension, particularly in the South where candlelit processions still illuminate villages. This holiday symbolically marks the transition between winter and spring, a time when nature slowly awakens under the Mediterranean sun.
The art of Italian-style crepes: "crespelle" and their secrets
But Candlemas is not only a religious holiday in Italy, it is also an occasion to enjoy delicious crepes. "Crespelle", Italian cousins of our French crepes, are an essential specialty of this holiday. Unlike French crepes, crespelle are thinner and lighter, and can be savory or sweet.
Crespelle: Italian cousins of our French crepes
Traditional Italian crepe batter is made from flour, eggs, milk, and organic fruity green olive oil. The latter is an essential ingredient in Italian cuisine and brings a unique flavor to crepes. High-quality olive oil transforms a simple batter into a delicate base with herbaceous aromas.
The importance of olive oil in traditional dough
Olive oil is a real star in Italian cuisine, and particularly in the South of Italy where the Lucangeli brand is located. Traditionally, it is organic fruity green olive oil that is used for cooking crespelle, giving them a unique flavor and a light, crispy texture.
For a successful crepe batter, it is important to choose a quality olive oil with a strong taste. Herbaceous notes and freshness on the palate characterize the best Calabrian oils.
Regional recipes from Southern Italy
Italian cuisine is rich in flavors and diversity, and each region has its own culinary specialties. To celebrate Candlemas in Italian style, let's discover two regional recipes from Southern Italy based on crespelle.
In the Puglia region, crespelle are often filled with ricotta, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and basil. For a touch of freshness and sweetness, you can add a bergamot spread, which will bring a subtle and delicate citrus note.
In Calabria, the region of origin of the Lucangeli brand, crespelle are often served as dessert, accompanied by a hazelnut spread. But for an even more indulgent version, bergamot adds an incomparable touch of originality and freshness.
Celebrating Candlemas with the flavors of Calabria
For an even more authentic Italian Candlemas, why not incorporate artisanal products made from quality local ingredients? Calabria is full of gastronomic treasures that sublimate every preparation.
Bergamot, Calabrian treasure for fragrant crepes
Bergamot is a citrus fruit typical of the Calabria region, known for its unique scent and its use in perfumery. But did you know that bergamot can also be used in cooking? The bergamot spread is a true discovery for the taste buds, with its creamy texture and subtly tart taste. It will bring a touch of originality to your crespelle, and can also be enjoyed on toast or as an accompaniment to desserts.
Organic bergamot juice can also delicately perfume crepe batter, bringing that characteristic citrus note of the Calabrian terroir.
Artisanal spreads: the gourmet alternative
For spread lovers, traditional Calabrian recipes offer tasty alternatives. With natural ingredients and no palm oil, the hazelnut spread is a real delight for the taste buds. For a gourmet Candlemas, you can enjoy it on warm crepes, accompanied by fresh fruit or whipped cream.
Lucangeli olive oils: sublimating every bite
For a successful Candlemas, it is essential to choose quality products. Olive oils from local production are carefully crafted to guarantee exceptional quality. In addition to organic fruity green olive oil, you can also discover bergamot olive oil, which will bring a touch of originality to your dishes.
In conclusion, Italian Candlemas is a celebration that is both sacred and gourmet, where Mediterranean traditions and the art of the crepe meet. With the authentic flavors of Calabria, you will discover new tastes and celebrate this holiday in all its authenticity. So, let yourself be tempted by crespelle, artisanal spreads, and local olive oils for a successful Italian Candlemas!
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