How to choose the perfect Italian Taralli
Where to start….
You may have noticed that there is a great choice of taralli on our website and this is only to be expected since taralli have been around in Italy since 1400. The origin of these delicious savory snacks is lost in legends, as is the origin of their name, but it is certain that they became very popular, especially in the south of Italy in the regions of Puglia and Campania, and this is where most of the variations we love today were born.
The basic recipe never changed and, like most things in the Italian cooking tradition, is super simple: flour, salt, water, extra virgin olive oil, and according to the variations, a dash of wine and spices. The dough is shaped into rings, which are quickly boiled and then baked to obtain the unmistakable consistency of these staples of the Italian pantry.
How to choose the perfect Taralli for you:
Let’s start with size: Taralli are bigger and are a tasty and crunchy substitute for breadsticks and bread on the table. Tarallini are smaller and perfect for aperitivo.
The Classic: Taralli Caserecci by Cianciullo is where you want to start. Perfect in a bread basket on the table, they go with every meal.
A light snack: Scaldatelli or Sottili della Nonna are perfect for a quick salty snack on the go. Grab one and enjoy this crunchy masterpiece. We love the fennel seeds addition but if you are not a fan of fennel keep reading ‘cause we have something for you too...
The king of Taralli: This Taralli Intrecciati won’t make you miss fresh bread. They are the biggest taralli and are perfect to keep in your pantry for those days when you don’t have fresh bread: they are always perfectly crunchy and will look good on any table!
The Traditional Italian Aperitivo: you are sitting at a table outside drinking a glass of wine, or a cold beer and sharing a beautifully arranged “Tagliere” with some Vegetables in oil, freshly cut ham and salami, a selection of delicious cheeses and, of course, some super crunchy and tasty Tarallini!
We had to have the best offer of tarallini because we know aperitivo is such an important ritual! With the classic, you can never go wrong, but you can try out also the wholewheat or corn options to see what you prefer and then… go crazy with flavors: fennel, black pepper, chili pepper and our “pizza taste” tarallini will make your aperitif unforgettable.
A special mention goes to...Laccetti and Braids: wrap these rustic breadsticks in a slice of Veroni ham, speck or Mortadella or dip them in a savory cream or soft cheese to enjoy a culinary trip to the south of Italy. Of course, you can also enjoy these alone and on the go: grab a couple and then close the bag again and save the rest in your pantry... if you can resist!
“Finire a tarallucci e vino” - Ending things with taralli and wine
This Italian saying is used sometimes to say that things, especially political matters, were resolved in a simplistic way, maybe with some shady agreements, but it can also be used to indicate that a fight or complicated situation was resolved with a friendly and happy solution referencing the convivial nature of sharing some tarallini and a glass of wine.
We would love to end this “Encyclopedia of Taralli” with the happier meaning and sharing some taralli and wine with all of you!
Add some Taralli to your cart next time you shop for your authentic Italian food and if you have any question let us know! We have been eating taralli for all our lives and may likely be able to clear all your doubts!
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