Seasoned Bread!

I named my little blog Sicilianissimi to celebrate our lifestyle and heritage…Sicilianissimi means that we are Sicilian to the core and to the greatest degree.

In my opinion, the dish that best represents Sicilianissimi is Pani Cunzatu. There is not a specific recipe, it is basically a sandwich on warm bread. The fillings are humble and are generally found in the Sicilian kitchen. It does not sound like anything exciting on the surface, but the typically Sicilian ingredients elevate this sandwich to something special.

Saturday supper with Rose and Angelo usually consists of traditional celebratory food. Pre-Covid they routinely gathered with family and friends to dance and share a pizza. Due to Covid the group outings have ended but they are continuing to enjoy the food.

Since I arrived, the Saturday night menu has been: Pizza (mostly homemade but sometimes from the local bakery,) Arancini, Panini with Prosciutto, local Cheeses, Mortadella and various Antipasti.

Last night Rose made the Ultimate Pani Cunzatu for us!

Bread, fresh and hot from Rose’s oven

Local olive oil

Freshly grated Parmiggiano

Salted sardines marinated in local olive oil and oregano

Sun dried tomatoes, seasoned (of course) with olive oil and fennel seeds

Salt and abundant pepper

In Sicilian — “ci scialavu” I don’t know an equivalent English term, I would translate as: I found it utterly satisfying.

I am grateful to be able to enjoy this Sicilianissimi experience with my wonderful family in Sicily. Thank you Sister Rose for all you do for us!