Why Pumpkin Recipes from Naples?
Naples, a city in Southern Italy, has a strong culinary tradition centered around fresh and local ingredients. When it comes to pumpkins, the Neapolitans have perfected the art of transforming this humble vegetable into extraordinary dishes. Whether it’s a savory pumpkin soup or a sweet pumpkin tart, you can trust that the Naples folks know how to create culinary magic with this versatile ingredient.
Traditional Neapolitan Pumpkin Recipe #1: Zucca alla Parmigiana (Pumpkin Parmesan)
If you’re a fan of the classic Eggplant Parmesan, you’ll love this Neapolitan twist with pumpkin! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 medium pumpkin
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tomato sauce
- Olive oil
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the pumpkin into thin round pieces.
3. In a shallow dish, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each pumpkin slice into the egg mixture and coat with breadcrumbs.
5. Heat olive oil in a pan and fry the pumpkin slices until golden brown.
6. Arrange a layer of fried pumpkin slices in a baking dish and cover with tomato sauce and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Traditional Neapolitan Pumpkin Recipe #2: Zucca e Patate al Forno (Baked Pumpkin and Potatoes)
This hearty and comforting Neapolitan dish combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the earthiness of potatoes. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 small pumpkin
- 3 potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Remove the skin and seeds from the pumpkin and cut it into wedges.
3. In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin wedges, sliced potatoes, minced garlic, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until the pumpkin and potatoes are tender.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to crisp up the edges.
Wrap-up
There you have it – two authentic Neapolitan pumpkin recipes that will transport you to the charming streets of Naples. Whether you choose to indulge in the Pumpkin Parmesan or savor the Baked Pumpkin and Potatoes, these dishes will surely satisfy your cravings for Italian comfort food. So, gather your ingredients and get ready for a delightful culinary adventure in your own kitchen!
Remember, the key to authentic Neapolitan cooking is using fresh and high-quality ingredients, so don’t compromise on the quality! Buon appetito!