Puglia, a region located in the south of Italy, is renowned for its delicious cuisine, which is often considered to be among the best in the country. The cuisine of this region is known for its use of fresh ingredients, traditional flavors, and unique cooking techniques. Here are five reasons why the cuisine of Puglia is considered among Italy’s best.

Freshness

First, the ingredients used in Puglian cuisine are some of the freshest and highest quality available in Italy. The region is blessed with fertile soil, a mild Mediterranean climate, and an abundance of fresh seafood from the nearby Ionian and Adriatic seas.

As a result, locals have access to a wide variety of locally grown fruits, vegetables, and seafood that are used to create some of the most delicious dishes in Italy.

History

Second, Puglian cuisine has a rich history that dates back centuries. This history can be seen in many of the traditional recipes and cooking methods still used today. Traditional dishes such as orecchiette pasta with broccoli tops and mussels or pork-stuffed eggplant have been passed down through generations and remain popular today.

The Olive Oil

Third, Puglia is home to some of the best olive oil in Italy. The region has a long history of producing high quality extra virgin olive oil, has an estimated 6 million(!) trees and the area is home to some of the oldest olive trees in the world.

Our Puglia tours always include a visit to one estate that has a 3,000 yr old tree that still produces fruit!

The mild climate, fertile soil, and abundant sunshine all contribute to the production of flavorful and aromatic oil that is perfect for drizzling over salads, pasta dishes, and other traditional recipes. In addition, many of the olive oils produced in Puglia are certified organic and free from additives or preservatives. This ensures that you are getting the highest quality product possible.

The Wines

Fourth, the region has an extensive selection of local wines that are perfect for pairing with Puglian dishes. From the intense and full-bodied Primitivo di Manduria to the light and vibrant Verdeca, there is something for every palate. An upcoming blog post will cover some of the typical dishes and wines of region.

Evolution

Finally, Puglia has a vibrant culinary culture that is still evolving. The cuisine of this region continues to be influenced by different cultures, as well as new ingredients and cooking techniques. As a result, the food of Puglia is constantly changing and evolving, making it one of the most exciting cuisines in Italy.

These five factors combine to make Puglia one of Italy’s best culinary destinations. From its fresh ingredients to its unique recipes, Puglia offers a truly unique culinary experience that is sure to delight even the most discerning foodie.