The History of Calabrian Food Culture and Its Traditions

Calabria, located in the south of Italy, is a land rich in history, traditions and unique flavors. Calabrian food culture is distinguished by its authenticity and the use of fresh, local ingredients. This blog will explore the historical roots of Calabrian cuisine, its traditional recipes and ancient preservation methods that are still passed down from generation to generation.

The Historical Roots of Calabrian Cuisine

Calabrian cuisine has ancient origins that date back to the times of Magna Graecia. Calabria's geographical position, between the Ionian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea, has profoundly influenced its culinary traditions. The region has been a crossroads of different cultures, including Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Normans, each of which has left its mark on the local cuisine.

Fresh and Local Ingredients

Calabrian cuisine is known for its use of fresh and local ingredients. Among these, courgettes, aubergines, peppers, onions, Calabrian broccoli, olives, mushrooms and artichokes stand out. However, the undisputed king of the Calabrian table is the spicy chili pepper, which gives the dishes that distinctive and unmistakable touch.

Traditional Calabrian Recipes

'Nduja: One of the most famous products of Calabria is the 'Nduja, a spicy spreadable salami made with pork, chili pepper and spices. This product is often used to enrich sauces, pizzas and bread.

Fileja with 'Nduja and Tropea Onion

Another traditional dish is Fileja with 'Nduja and Tropea Onion. Fileja is a type of homemade pasta, typical of Calabria, that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of Tropea onion and the spiciness of 'Nduja.

Stuffed Eggplant

Stuffed eggplant is another iconic dish of Calabrian cuisine. It is stuffed with a mix of stale bread, cheese, aromatic herbs and, of course, chili pepper.

Culinary Tradition as a Family Legacy

In Calabria, cooking is a family affair. Recipes are passed down from generation to generation, keeping alive the traditions and authentic flavors of the past. Each family has its own variations of traditional dishes, enriched by jealously guarded culinary secrets.

Ancient Methods of Preservation

The Calabrian tradition also boasts ancient methods of food preservation, such as salting, drying and oil. These methods allow the authentic flavors of Calabria to be preserved for a long time. Among these, jars in oil are particularly renowned for their ability to keep the freshness and goodness of the products intact.

Jars in Oil

Jars in oil are one of the most popular and widespread methods of preservation in Calabria. Vegetables such as courgettes, aubergines, peppers, onions and artichokes are carefully selected, cleaned and cut by hand, then immersed in extra virgin olive oil together with spices and natural aromas. This process not only preserves the vegetables, but enhances their flavour, making them a delight to be enjoyed all year round.

Dodaro Selection Preserves

Territorial Food Dodaro Selection preserves are the flagship of our production. We use only the best raw materials, grown at km 0, and we follow traditional methods to guarantee the highest quality. Each jar is a journey into the authentic flavors of Calabria, perfect for enriching any dish with a touch of genuine taste.

Among our specialties you will find:

Melanzane della Signorina: Fresh hand-cut aubergines in oil, filleted, always al dente and brightly colored, we immerse them in a world of spices and oil, to keep them always good and al dente as only a young lady can do, they are to be tried in the kitchen with appetizers, bruschetta and combined as desired.

Zucchine del Re: Crispy and tasty courgettes in oil, perfect as an appetizer or side dish.

Bruschetta Mediterranea: selection of vegetables in oil as the Mediterranean flavor deserves, known and appreciated all over the world you can rediscover it in this jar to season your bruschetta or simply your cold pasta and why not, dare to create new recipes.

Carciofi Accettati: Tender and tasty artichokes in oil, a real must of the Calabrian tradition.

Ricostituente Calabrese: only by eating well can you feel better and healthier, a bomb of pleasure that will satisfy your taste and your body. We have concentrated in this jar chili pepper, basil, parsley and onions that will release a bomb of taste and well-being!