Image by Francesco Liotti

Catanzaro

One of the most tantalizing dishes to come out of southern Italy is Catanzaro. This delectable dish originates in the coastal city of the same name, where it is beloved for its toothsome combination of seafood and herbs.

Catanzaro


Catanzaro is defined by its choice ingredients. At its heart are seafood—commonly clams, mussels, and shrimp—which are sautéed with garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, white wine, and capers to create a delicious mélange. These savory components are then served over a bed of spaghetti or, more traditionally, toasted bread croutons. Green bell pepper, parsley, and chili flakes often join the fray, so that the resulting dish is imbued with complex and complementary flavors.

But what truly makes Catanzaro memorable is its warm, inviting aroma. It is an olfactory adventure, tickling one's nose with the subtle notes of the sea's bounty. The scent of garlic and salt intermingle in such a way that creates a robust yet pleasing bouquet.

To get the full Catanzaro experience, it is best enjoyed on the rugged Calabrian coast. It is here that you can savor the dish's succulence while taking in the majestic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The combination of sights and smells make for a deeply fulfilling experience that you won't soon forget.

Whether you take a culinary journey to the southern Italian town of Catanzaro or recreate the dish in your own kitchen, this delightful seafood dish is destined to become a household favorite. With its tantalizing aromas and delectable combination of flavors, Catanzaro is sure to please any palate.

The origin of Catanzaro

Catanzaro, a city in the southwestern region of Italy known for its unmatched beauty, is also home to one of the most beloved dishes of southern Italian cuisine: Catanzaro. The origins of this savory dish remain somewhat a mystery due to its ambiguity and versatility but one thing is certain; Catanzaro is here to stay!

Most believe that the Catanzaro dish originated from the old-fashioned Calabrese cuisine of Southern Italy. In the late 1700s, the Catanzarese used mostly seafood and freshwater fish in their recipes and often used deep frying as a popular cooking technique. Whatever their original recipe was, the Catanzarese kept it close to their hearts, which is why it has managed to stay so true to its original flavors to this day.

It is thought that the dish became popular through the traveling of merchants and sailors, who brought it along with them to other parts of the country. Over time, the dish evolved to fit the local culture and cuisine, with variations popping up throughout Italy. Traditionally, the Catanzaro consists of a variety of vegetables and legumes, cooked in a pan with olive oil, garlic, tomatoes and herbs. This is then topped off with a generous helping of grated cheese.

The Catanzaro may have started out as an unknown dish in the small town of Catanzaro, but it has since become an iconic dish known throughout Italy. Its popularity has even spread overseas, with many chefs around the world incorporating the classic flavors of Catanzaro into their own dishes. Whether you’re tasting it in a small trattoria by the sea, or at a high-end restaurant in a bustling metropolis, one can always count on the classic flavors and ingredients of the traditional Catanzaro dish.

FAQs about Catanzaro

Is Catanzaro Italy worth visiting?

Catanzaro is a fascinating city located in southern Italy that offers tourists a variety of activities. From beautiful beaches to amazing mountain views, there is something for everyone. Visitors will be able to explore the old town and visit popular attractions such as the Duomo di Sant’Andrea, the Museo Diocesano, and the Castello Normanno-Svevo. In addition to sightseeing, tourists can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking along the coast or through nearby hills and mountains. With its charming streets, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Catanzaro is definitely worth visiting.


What does Catanzaro mean in Italian?

Catanzaro is an Italian city located in the Calabria region. The name is thought to derive from the Greek words 'katá' (down) and 'anaxárion' (high) and literally translates to "lower heights".


What is Catanzaro Italy known for?

Catanzaro is often known as the "city of the two seas" due to its position between the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas. It is also known as the capital of Calabria and the administrative seat of the Calabria region. Catanzaro is famous for its long history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. There are many noteworthy attractions in the city, such as the Aragonese Castle, the Villa Romanazzi Carducci, and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Additionally, Catanzaro is well-known for its delicious local cuisine, featuring recipes based on fresh seafood and vegetables from the Calabrian countryside.


What nationality is Catanzaro?

Catanzaro is a city in the Calabria region of Italy.


Types of Catanzaro

Ah, Catanzaro - the beautiful Italian city that's abundant in both culture and cuisine. Its namesake dish, or piatto, is enjoyed by those visiting from afar as well as locals alike. But what is it that makes this culinary delight so unique?

At its core, Catanzaro is a combination of pasta, pork, and tomato sauce. This marriage of ingredients creates an explosion of flavor that is distinctively Italian. Depending on the region, variations of the dish can be found that add in mushrooms, pecorino, basil, and so much more to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

While it may come as no surprise that Catanzaro is popular in its homeland, the dish has gained traction across the globe of late. From UK gastro pubs to high-end restaurants in the United States, Catanzaro is increasingly becoming a must-try item on menus around the world.

One of the great things about Catanzaro is that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a carb-lover, meat eater, vegetarian, or all three, you can find a variation of the dish that suits your tastes. The texture of the pork combined with the delectable pasta creates a symphony for your taste buds.

The flavor of Catanzaro is truly incomparable. Aromatic, umami, and savory are just a few words that come to mind after trying it. There’s a depth of flavor that comes with each bite, coupled with a subtle sweetness from the tomato sauce.

If you’re looking for a unique and delicious meal, look no further than Catanzaro. With its delightful blend of ingredients, it’s sure to please even the most discerning of diners. So the next time you’re in Italy, don’t forget to try this Catanzaro.