If you’re planning a trip to Puglia, you’ll undoubtedly be drawn to the picturesque charm of its coastal towns, the beauty of its landscapes, and the authenticity of its cultural heritage. However, a stay in this region of southern Italy wouldn’t be complete without discovering the richness of its cuisine and wines.
A journey through time…
The Puglia region was once a poor region. It has learned to make the most of its local and seasonal resources. Vegetables, grains, and olive oil have always been the foundation of its cuisine, thanks to their availability and affordability. It is therefore not surprising that Apulian cuisine is referred to as “cucina povera,” the cuisine of the poor. Despite this name, the quality and taste of Apulian cuisine are far from poor. There is a cuisine of the land, known as “contadina,” which also includes meat, and a cuisine of the sea, rich in fish and seafood.
Today…
While remaining true to its traditional roots, Apulian cuisine has evolved into a contemporary cuisine. Many chefs have reimagined it with creativity and refinement. However, the heart of Apulian cuisine remains unchanged: a celebration of the simplicity of local ingredients, offering unique flavors and textures.
Must-try dishes from the Puglia region and their food and wine pairings
Orecchiette con cime di rapa
For lunch, try the Orecchiette con cime di rapa , one of Puglia’s most iconic dishes . These “little ears,” named for their shape, are traditionally handmade. They are served with tomato sauce (al sugo) or cime di rapa (broccoli rabe).
Pair the Orecchiette con cime di rapa with a Primitivo rosato , a robust rosé with fruity notes.
Puree di fave con cicorie
Another authentic vegetable dish is Purè di fave con cicorie , a traditional broad bean purée served with wild chicory. Purè di fave con cicorie is a simple yet flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with a Minutolo IGP Valle d’Itria , a mineral white wine with citrus notes.
This is Tria
Ceci e Tria is a traditional dish from the Puglia region, particularly Salento. “Ceci” means chickpeas in Italian, while “Tria” comes from the Arabic word “itriya,” which refers to a type of pasta. The distinctive feature of this dish is the addition of fried pasta, which provides a contrasting texture. Ceci e Tria pairs perfectly with a glass of Primitivo DOC Lizzano .
The polpette
If you’re a meat lover, try polpette , meatballs usually made with veal or pork. They are often served with tomato sauce under the name polpette al sugo. To accompany this dish, we recommend a glass of Negroamaro Terra d’Otranto .
Horse meat
The cuisine of Puglia is also famous for its carne di cavallo , or horse meat. The history of horse meat consumption in Puglia dates back centuries and remains part of the culinary heritage. It is typically prepared as a stew, simmered slowly over low heat, which allows its complex flavor to develop. You can pair your carne di cavallo with a glass of Nero di Troia .
Pasta ai rossi di Gallipoli
The Puglia region offers an abundance of fresh seafood and fish, often served as tartare or carpaccio and seasoned with olive oil and lemon.
Gallipoli pink prawns ( gamberi rossi di Gallipoli ), renowned for their delicate flavor and juicy texture, are a staple of Apulian seafood cuisine. One of my husband’s favorite dishes is pasta ai gamberi rossi di Gallipoli , stracciatella e pistacchi, accompanied by a glass of Verdeca white wine .
Friselle
Friselle , a traditional bread from southern Italy, are a perfect choice for a light lunch. Originally created for sailors and farmers who needed a sustainable food source, they are baked twice to dry out. Served after being soaked in water, topped with tomatoes, olive oil, and oregano, friselle pair perfectly with a glass of Rosato Susumaniello .
Burrata
For lunch, you can enjoy a burrata , a stretched-curd cheese made from mozzarella and stracciatella, another specialty of Puglia. Burrata can be served with fresh tomatoes and basil, or simply with a drizzle of olive oil. We suggest a glass of Bombino Bianco to accompany your burrata .
The cuisine of Puglia is a reflection of its land: humble, authentic, and generous. Whether through tasting its local wines or discovering its traditional dishes, every meal is an opportunity to discover and appreciate Puglia’s culinary heritage, simple yet flavorful dishes.
