Vero Italiano: la salumeria

salumeria cured Italian meat

The third instalment in Mario Matassa’s new series uncovering the secrets of Italian food involves a trip to the deli counter to discover exactly why cured meats are so cherished by the Italian nation Photos by Mario Matassa Years back, driving through customs, it was common practice for Italian immigrants returning from their annual summer […]

Bucatini with Pancetta, Tomato and Chilli

Bucatini with pancetta, tomato and chilli

Mario Matassa’s take on bucatini all’amatriciana is a classic from Amatrice in Lazio. Puritans argue that the dish must be made using guanciale (cured pork cheek), but pancetta makes a fine substitute Serves 4 Preparation time 5 minutes Cooking time 1-12 minutes Ingredients: • 320g bucatini pasta • 150g pancetta, diced • 1 small onion, peeled, finely […]

Pizza with Radicchio and Parmesan Cheese

Radicchio is a popular vegetable in Italian cooking and its intense flavour pairs well with traditional pizza ingredients such as cheese and pancetta. The bright red leaves also make a dish all the more attractive to look at… Ingredients SERVES 4-6 FOR THE DOUGH 300g plain wheat flour 100g strong wheat flour 20g Brewer’s yeast […]

Risotto with Pancetta and Leeks

Risotto con Pancetta e Porri The taste of pancetta is very distinctive and quite different from bacon. Fortunately it is very widely available these days, so you really should not have any trouble finding it. If you are unlucky and cannot find it, the only possible substitute for this recipe is really top-quality, green streaky […]