Olive all'ascolana

Olive all'ascolana is a traditional Italian dish originating from the Marche region, specifically from the city of Ascoli Piceno. The dish is a type of stuffed olive, typically served as an appetizer or snack. The name "all'ascolana" refers to the Ascoli style of preparation.

History

The dish has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. It was originally prepared by the wealthy families of Ascoli Piceno for special occasions. The olives used in the dish, known as Olea europaea, are a variety native to the region. The stuffing traditionally includes a mixture of meats, such as beef, pork, and chicken, along with local cheese and spices.

Preparation

The preparation of Olive all'ascolana involves several steps. First, the olives are pitted and the meat is cooked and finely chopped. The meat is then mixed with grated cheese, eggs, and spices to create the stuffing. The olives are filled with this mixture, then breaded and deep-fried until golden brown.

Cultural Significance

Olive all'ascolana is considered a symbol of the culinary heritage of the Marche region. It is often served at local festivals and events, and is a popular choice for tourists visiting the area. In 2005, the dish was granted Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status by the European Union, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.

Variations

While the traditional recipe calls for a meat filling, there are many variations of Olive all'ascolana. Some versions use a vegetarian filling, while others incorporate different types of cheese or additional ingredients like mushrooms or truffles. Despite these variations, the basic method of preparation remains the same.

See Also

• Italian cuisine
• Marche
• Ascoli Piceno
• Olea europaea