After living in Naples for several years, I have had the good fortune to immerse myself in the incredible gastronomic culture of Campania. This experience has allowed me to learn to love and understand the flavors and traditions of the region, which celebrate simplicity, creativity and the richness of both the sea and the land. From rural traditions to maritime dishes from the Amalfi Coast, excellent cheeses and irresistible desserts, Campania cuisine is a true feast for the senses.
Poor Traditions: Masterpieces of Simplicity
One of the most striking aspects of Campania cuisine is its ability to transform simple ingredients into dishes of incredible flavor. Recipes such as pasta e fagioli , pasta e patate and the famous parmigiana di melanzane were born from rural families who knew how to make the most of the ingredients they had. These dishes, although simple, have deep and satisfying flavor profiles and are now among the most beloved in the Neapolitan tradition.
Buffalo mozzarella: the pride of Campania
When we talk about Campania specialties, it is impossible not to mention buffalo mozzarella , a symbol of the region and one of the most appreciated cheeses in the world. With its juicy texture and intense flavor, Campania buffalo mozzarella is a true masterpiece. However, as a Pugliese, I must admit that my preference goes to the milk mozzarella from Puglia, which I find unsurpassed. But buffalo mozzarella certainly has its charm, especially when it is the protagonist of simple but refined dishes such as caprese salad , where it is combined with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil and a little Italian extra virgin olive oil .
Campanian cheeses: Not just mozzarella
In addition to the famous buffalo mozzarella, Campania offers a wide range of splendid cheeses. Among the most appreciated is provolone del Monaco , a fibrous cheese from the Sorrento peninsula known for its rich flavor. Nor should we forget buffalo ricotta , which, with its mild flavor and creamy texture, has many uses in both sweet and savory dishes.
The kitchen of the sea
Campania's cuisine is deeply influenced by the region's geography, with the sea providing an incredible variety of seafood. Dishes like spaghetti alle vongole and fritto misto di mare perfectly reflect the essence of the maritime tradition. And here I feel a strong connection to my Puglia, as we also share a deep love and recipes for pasta and fish dishes , which tell the story of two regions bathed in the Mediterranean and united by the same maritime food culture.
The Neapolitan Pizza: The Immortal Queen
We can't talk about Neapolitan cuisine without paying tribute to pizza , probably the most famous and beloved Italian dish in the world. Neapolitan pizza is an art form: its thin and soft crust, baked in a wood-fired oven, is perfectly combined with simple and genuine ingredients such as San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella and basil. Whether it's the classic margherita or the flavorful marinara , Neapolitan pizza remains an unforgettable experience in every bite.
Casatiello and tortano: Symbols of Easter
Casatiello and tortano are two savory breads, typical for Easter in Campania, filled with cheese and sausage and, in the case of casatiello, decorated with whole eggs baked into the dough. These rustic breads represent the hospitality and abundance of Neapolitan cuisine and are a true joy at Easter.
Amalfi Coast: The Kingdom of Limoncello
The Amalfi Coast is one of the jewels of Campania, not only for its breathtaking beauty, but also for its incredible cuisine. Here, the lemons from Sorrento and Amalfi are the absolute protagonists, used in many recipes, but especially to make limoncello , the famous digestive liqueur loved all over the world. I make limoncello myself following my aunt's secret recipe , which provides the perfect balance between sweetness and freshness. It is the ideal end to a meal full of Campanian flavors.
The Earth's Cuisine: Tradition and Intense Flavors
In addition to the cuisine of the sea, the earthly cuisine of Campania is just as rich and varied. Among the most famous dishes are salsiccia e friarielli , a perfect combination of strongly spicy sausage and the slightly bitter friarielli, a local broccoli variety. The Neapolitan ragù , which simmers for several hours, is another iconic element of Campania cuisine, perfect to combine with ziti or paccheri , where the intense flavor of the meat is highlighted.
Campanian desserts: A feast for those with a sweet tooth
You can't talk about Campania cuisine without mentioning its confectionery, which is among the most famous in Italy. From sfogliatella , both crispy and soft, to babà with rum (see photo) Naples has a unique pastry tradition. But the most representative dessert is pastiera napoletana , a delicious cake made with boiled wheat, ricotta and orange blossom water, traditionally baked for Easter.
Conclusion
Neapolitan and Campania cuisine is a tribute to the culture, history and traditions of an extraordinary region. From the humble country cuisine to the intense flavours of the sea, each dish tells a story of passion and creativity. With its wide range of excellent products, from cheeses to desserts, pizza and limoncello, Campania offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience that can satisfy every taste.
Buon appetito!
