Exploring Sardinian Cuisine
Sardinian cuisine is renowned for its simplicity, authenticity, and unique flavor. Rich in Mediterranean influences and characterized by fresh and genuine ingredients, it offers a variety of delicious dishes that represent the culinary soul of this fascinating island.
In this article, we’ll delve into a typical Sardinian recipe that will allow you to savor the authentic flavors of Sardinia right in your own kitchen.
The Recipe: Fregula with Clams and Bottarga
Origins and History
Fregula with clams and bottarga is an emblematic dish of seafood cuisine, inspired by the maritime tradition of the region.
Fregula, also known as fregula in Sardinian, is a dried pasta made from durum wheat semolina. The term derives from Latin and means “to rub”, as the pasta is produced by rubbing wet semolina with hands until forming balls of various sizes.
Ingredients
To prepare fregula with clams and bottarga, you will need:
- Fregula
- Fresh clams
- Bottarga
- Garlic
- Parsley
- Dry white wine
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Chili flakes (optional)
- Fish broth (optional)
Procedure
- In a large pan, lightly sauté a clove of minced garlic in extra virgin olive oil.
- Add the thoroughly cleaned clams and deglaze with a splash of dry white wine. Once opened, remove the clams from the pan and set aside.
- In another pan, toast the fregula lightly over moderate heat.
- Gradually add the filtered clam water to the fregula and bring it to a simmer, stirring constantly. If necessary, add additional water or fish broth to maintain a creamy consistency.
- Add the grated bottarga, chopped parsley, and, if desired, a pinch of chili flakes.
- Continue to stir until the fregula reaches a creamy, risotto-like consistency.
Once ready, serve the dish with a glass of good Vermentino di Gallura and fresh bread for dipping. The scent of the sea is on the table!
