Calabria, a region in Southern Italy, is renowned for its peasant and maritime cuisine, rich in local produce. With chili, olive oil, and sun-drenched vegetables, Calabrian gastronomy is a true culinary journey. Discover the iconic products of the Calabrian region for authentic flavors and a taste of Italy.
The fundamentals of Calabrian cuisine
A peasant and maritime cuisine
Calabrian cuisine is first and foremost a regional cuisine, based on local products and family farming. Traditional dishes are simple and rustic, reflecting peasant life. But as Calabria is a coastal region, seafood and fish are also very present in Calabrian gastronomy. Local fishermen provide fresh and flavorful fish, which enrich traditional recipes. This dual identity – land and sea – is what makes the cuisine of Southern Italy so unique and generous.
Chili, olive oil, and sun-drenched vegetables
Three ingredients are essential in Calabrian cuisine: chili, olive oil, and sun-drenched vegetables. Chili, called peperoncino in Italian, is used in most dishes to add spice and enhance flavors. Calabrians are very proud of it and have been cultivating it with passion for generations. Olive oil is considered the liquid gold of Calabria: olive trees are abundant here and produce a distinctive oil, used for cooking, seasonings, and even in some desserts. Finally, sun-drenched vegetables – tomatoes, eggplants, zucchini, peppers – are widely used in Calabrian recipes, bringing freshness and color to dishes.
Calabrian PDO and PGI labels
Calabria boasts numerous certified products, guaranteeing their origin and quality. Among them, Calabrian olive oil benefits from a PGI (Protected Geographical Indication), which comes in different expressions depending on the olive variety and harvest time. Bergamot, a citrus fruit grown almost exclusively on the Ionian coast of Calabria, also benefits from a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin). Olives, red onions from Tropea, Calabrian licorice are among the many certified products in the region. These labels are a guarantee of traceability and authenticity for the consumer.
The emblematic products of the Calabrian region
Olive oil, liquid gold of Calabria
Olive oil is undoubtedly one of the flagship products of Calabrian gastronomy. Depending on the harvest time, it can be described as "green fruity" — harvested early, with herbaceous and peppery notes — or "ripe fruity" — harvested later, with softer and rounder aromas. Organic green fruity olive oil is ideal for accompanying grilled fish, raw vegetables, or fresh cheeses. Organic ripe fruity olive oil will bring sweetness and roundness to meats, pasta, and salads. For lovers of strong flavors, organic garlic & chili olive oil perfectly embodies the spicy and generous spirit of Calabria.
Bergamot, a unique treasure in the world
Bergamot is a citrus fruit grown almost exclusively on the Ionian coast of Calabria, in the province of Reggio Calabria. Its floral and slightly bitter scent is unmistakable. Used for centuries in perfumery and gastronomy, it is now experiencing renewed interest in creative cuisine. Organic bergamot juice can be used in cooking to enhance a vinaigrette, deglaze white meat, or flavor a dessert. Bergamot jam is ideal on toast, with soft cheese, or for filling pastries. Bergamot olive oil, awarded at the Épicures 2023, is an original creation that combines two Calabrian treasures in one bottle.
Olives, tapenades, and condiments
Calabrian cuisine is rich in olives, tapenades, and other condiments. Pitted black olives in extra virgin olive oil are an essential base for Calabrian antipasto. Black olive tapenade and sun-dried tomato tapenade are made from selected ingredients and processed according to traditional recipes. Finally, PDO basil pesto, prepared with PDO basil and extra virgin olive oil, is a versatile condiment that fits equally well in pasta, on bruschetta, or grilled vegetables.
How to cook and enjoy Calabrian style
Classic pairings
To cook Calabrian style, some pairings are essential. Pasta goes perfectly with a tomato sauce spiced with chili and olive oil. Grilled meats are well complemented by black olive tapenade or PDO basil pesto. For seafood lovers, grilled fish accompanied by a drizzle of green fruity olive oil and a dash of bergamot juice is a classic of the Calabrian coast. Sun-drenched vegetables – eggplants, peppers, tomatoes – are roasted in the oven with olive oil and chili, or served in a cold salad with olives and fresh herbs.
Ideas for aperitifs and summer meals
For an aperitif, Calabrian tapenades and condiments are perfect with toast, raw vegetables, or breadsticks. The set of 4 tapenades allows you to create a varied and generous platter, ideal for sharing. For a summer meal, opt for fresh flavors by combining sun-dried tomato tapenade with grilled vegetables or bruschetta. Don't hesitate to add a touch of bergamot juice to your vinaigrettes or desserts for an original and fragrant note.
Where to find quality Calabrian products
To discover and savor Calabrian regional products, it is important to favor producers who work with organic farming methods and respect traditions. IGP and PDO labels are a primary guarantee of authenticity. For gifting or for personal enjoyment, the customizable gift box allows you to select the Calabrian products of your choice and gather them in a beautiful case. It's also a way to introduce the richness of Southern Italy's terroir to your loved ones or colleagues.
lucangeli.it
