Frise are crispy, baked bread disks that are cut in half, topped with various ingredients, and served as an antipasto or a snack. Friselle, on the other hand, are small, hard, dry breads that need to be soaked in water or tomato sauce before eating. They are usually served with fresh tomatoes, olive oil, and basil.
Puglia, a region in Southern Italy, is famous for its frise. In Puglia, the dough is made with durum wheat flour and water, and it is rolled out thinly and baked in a wood-fired oven. Frise are usually cut into small disks and stored in a cool and dry place. When they are ready to be served, they are moistened with water and topped with fresh tomatoes, olive oil, capers, olives, and salted anchovies. Frise can also be topped with vegetables, cheese, and cured meats, depending on the local traditions and preferences.
Campania, another region in Southern Italy, is renowned for its friselle. In Campania, the dough is made with white flour, yeast, and salt, and it is shaped into small, round breads. The breads are then baked twice: first, they are baked in an oven until they become hard and dry, and then they are baked again in a softer and moister environment. This process gives friselle their characteristic texture and taste. Friselle are usually soaked in water or tomato sauce for a few minutes before being topped with fresh tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, basil, and salt. They can also be served with mozzarella cheese, arugula, and prosciutto.
Calabria, a region in Southern Italy, also has its own version of friselle. In Calabria, the dough is made with semolina flour, water, and salt, and it is rolled out thinly and shaped into small flatbreads. The flatbreads are then baked twice, just like in Campania, and they are usually soaked in water or tomato sauce before being topped with fresh tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and salt. Calabrian friselle can also be served with spicy salami, provolone cheese, and pickled vegetables.
Frise and friselle are not only delicious, but they are also healthy and versatile. They are a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins, and they can be topped with any ingredient you like. They are perfect for a quick and easy meal, a snack, or a party starter, and they can be paired with a glass of wine, a beer, or a soft drink.
If you want to try frise and friselle, you can find them in any local specialty food store, online, or you can even make them at home. The recipes are simple and straightforward, and they don’t require any special equipment or skills. All you need is some good quality ingredients, a bit of patience, and a lot of appetite.
In conclusion, frise and friselle are two typical recipes from three beautiful regions in Southern Italy: Puglia, Campania, and Calabria. These traditional dishes are not only tasty but also healthy, versatile, and easy to make. If you haven’t tried them yet, you should definitely add them to your culinary bucket list. Bon appetit!