Menu of the House and Putia of Messina

When it comes to exploring the vibrant culinary scene of Sicily, one cannot ignore the menu of the house, or “menu da casa” in Italian, and the traditional Putia of Messina. These two culinary experiences offer a unique glimpse into the flavors, traditions, and history of this beautiful region.

The menu of the house is a concept that is deeply ingrained in Sicilian culture. It refers to a set menu offered by a family or a small restaurant, featuring traditional dishes prepared with love and passed down through generations. The menu is often fixed for the day and changes according to the available ingredients and the cook’s inspiration. It is a way for families to share their culinary heritage with others and to showcase the best of Sicilian cuisine.

A typical menu of the house in Sicily might start with a selection of antipasti, such as caponata (a sweet and sour eggplant-based dish), arancini (fried rice balls with various fillings), or panelle (chickpea fritters). These appetizers are bursting with flavors and set the stage for the rest of the meal.

Next comes the primo piatto, or first course, which usually consists of pasta dishes. Sicily is known for its delicious pasta varieties, such as spaghetti alla Norma (spaghetti with tomato sauce, eggplant, and ricotta salata), pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines, wild fennel, and pine nuts), or pasta alla Trapanese (spaghetti with tomato, almonds, and basil). Each dish tells a story and reflects the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Moving on to the secondi piatti, or main courses, Sicilian cuisine offers a diverse array of flavors. Fresh seafood plays a prominent role, with dishes like pesce spada alla ghiotta (swordfish with tomatoes, olives, and capers), cuscusu di pesce (fish couscous), and polpo alla galera (octopus stew) being popular choices. Meat lovers can enjoy dishes like involtini di vitello (veal roll-ups) or lamb stewed in wine and herbs.

No Sicilian meal is complete without the dolce, or dessert. Sicily is famous for its sweet treats, such as cannoli (crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese), cassata (a layered sponge cake with ricotta and candied fruit), and granita (a semi-frozen dessert made with sugar, water, and various flavors like lemon, almond, or coffee). These indulgent desserts are the perfect way to end a meal and satisfy any sweet tooth.

While the menu of the house offers a glimpse into Sicilian family traditions, the Putia of Messina takes culinary exploration to another level. A Putia is a traditional street food stand found in Messina, offering a variety of local specialties. These stands are known for their quick service, affordable prices, and mouthwatering flavors.

At a Putia, you can find a wide range of snacks and bites to satisfy your cravings. One famous delicacy is the arancino, a deep-fried rice ball stuffed with various fillings like ragù (meat sauce), mozzarella, or pistachio. The arancini at a Putia are often made fresh, ensuring a warm and flavorful experience.

Another popular choice is the pani ca’ meusa, or spleen sandwich. While it may not sound appealing at first, this sandwich is a true delicacy in Messina. Slices of beef spleen are slowly stewed with lard, then served on a warm bun with a sprinkling of salt and a squeeze of lemon. It may sound unusual, but it is definitely worth a try for adventurous food lovers.

Other offerings at a Putia include various types of focaccia, fresh salads with local produce, and artisanal cheeses and cured meats. It is a true feast for the senses and a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the flavors of Messina.

Visiting Sicily without indulging in the menu of the house and experiencing a Putia in Messina would be missing out on a truly authentic culinary journey. These gastronomic experiences offer a delightful blend of tradition, flavors, and historical significance. So, next time you find yourself in this beautiful region, make sure to savor the menu of the house and discover the delights of a Putia.