1. ‘Nduja: This spicy, spreadable salami is arguably one of the most famous Calabrian delicacies. Made from a mixture of pork fat, ground pork, and red chili peppers, ‘nduja is often used as a spread on bread or as an ingredient in pasta dishes. Its fiery flavor gives a distinctive taste to any dish it is added to.
2. Caciocavallo Silano: This renowned cheese is made from cow’s milk and is aged for several months. Caciocavallo Silano is known for its unique pear-like shape, which is achieved by keeping two cheeses together with a string tied around them during the aging process. It has a slightly salty and tangy flavor, making it perfect for sandwiches, appetizers, or grated over pasta.
3. Soppressata: This traditional Calabrian salami is made from pork that is seasoned with various spices, including fennel seeds, black pepper, and chili peppers. Slowly air-dried, soppressata has a rich and robust flavor that intensifies over time. It is often enjoyed on its own, sliced thinly in sandwiches, or as part of an antipasto platter.
4. Fileja: Calabria is home to many different types of pasta, but Fileja is a particularly famous variety. These hand-rolled pasta tubes are typically made with durum wheat flour and water, and have a twisted shape. Fileja is often served with rich tomato-based sauces or with ‘nduja for an extra kick of spiciness.
5. Stocco: A beloved Calabrian specialty, stocco is dried salted codfish that is typical of the region’s coastal areas. Before cooking, the fish is soaked in water to rehydrate and remove some of the saltiness. It is then cooked with tomatoes, onions, olive oil, and a selection of herbs and spices. Stocco is often served with crusty bread or accompanied by roasted potatoes.
6. Riavulillo: This traditional Calabrian dish is made from wild greens such as dandelion leaves, chicory, and wild asparagus. The greens are typically boiled and then sautéed with garlic, chili peppers, and olive oil. Riavulillo is a simple yet flavorful side dish often served alongside meat or fish dishes.
7. Tartufo di Pizzo: Calabria is known for its delicious sweets, and tartufo di Pizzo is a must-try. This decadent dessert is made by enveloping a ball of chocolate or hazelnut gelato in a shell of dark chocolate, and then dusting it with cocoa powder. The result is a truly indulgent treat that delights chocolate lovers from all around the world.
With its diverse and flavorful culinary traditions, Calabria offers a taste of the authentic Italian cuisine. From spicy salamis to savory pastas and sweet delights, the typical specialties of Calabria are bound to leave you wanting more. So, be sure to try these delicious delicacies when visiting this beautiful region of Italy.