Frise Pugliesi: History, Ingredients and Tradition of an Ancient Bread
Frise Pugliesi: Symbol of the Gastronomic Tradition of Puglia
Table of Contents
Apulian frise , or friselle, are one of the most authentic and ancient symbols of the gastronomic tradition of Puglia . This crunchy and light bread has been a pillar of the Apulian diet for centuries, known for its simplicity and versatility, and is still loved and appreciated throughout Italy and beyond.
The Birth of Frise Pugliesi: History and Tradition
The history of friselle dates back to ancient times, even to the time of the Greeks and Romans. This type of bread is designed to be preserved for a long time thanks to the double cooking process that makes the frise dry and hard. In the past, farmers and sailors took them with them on long journeys, as they could be easily rehydrated with water and seasoned to become a simple but substantial meal.
Frise are typically made with durum wheat flour or barley flour , but today you can also find variants with wholemeal or multi-grain flours. This bread, which comes in the form of rings cut in half and cooked twice, has accompanied generations of Apulians in their daily meals.
Ingredients and Preparation of Frise Pugliesi
The basic ingredients of Apulian frise are few and simple, but of the highest quality. In the most traditional version, frise are made with:
- Durum wheat or barley flour
- Waterfall
- Mother yeast or brewer's yeast
- A pinch of salt
The secret of their goodness lies in the double cooking. After the first cooking, the frise are cut in half horizontally and cooked a second time in the oven until they become crispy. This bisque process is what gives them their long shelf life and typical crispy consistency, perfect for being "softened" with water.
How to Enjoy Pugliese Frise: Condiment Ideas
One of the distinctive features of frise is their ability to be customized according to the taste of those who prepare them. The traditional preparation requires the frise to be quickly immersed in water to soften it, then seasoned with extra virgin olive oil , fresh cherry tomatoes , salt and oregano . However, there are many other variations: frise can be accompanied by grilled vegetables, olives, tuna or local cheeses such as burrata or ricotta forte.
Their versatility makes them perfect for both quick meals and gourmet aperitifs, adding an authentic touch of Apulian cuisine to any table.
Apulian Frise and Sustainability
In addition to their long tradition, frise represent a model of food sustainability . Their preparation method minimizes waste, since they can be preserved for long periods without deteriorating. Furthermore, the use of simple and genuine ingredients, such as Apulian wheat , integrates perfectly with respect for the land and the valorization of local resources.
Buy Authentic Frize Pugghia
If you want to taste the authentic Apulian frise , visit our website to discover the selection of artisanal Pugghia products, made according to tradition and with the best Apulian ingredients. Every bite will take you straight to the heart of Puglia.