Image by Alex Vasey

Nocciolini di Canzo

Nocciolini di Canzo, a delectable dish native to the Lombardy region of northern Italy, is one of the most beguiling culinary experiences you’ll encounter. The main ingredients are high-quality pork sausages, onions, and red peppers all baked in an earthenware casserole. This simple yet tantalizing combination of flavors creates an intoxicating medley of salty and sweet that is sure to captivate the palate of even the most discerning diner.

Nocciolini di Canzo


The key to the dish’s perfect balance lies in the careful selection of the sausages' unique blend of spices. Though the exact combination of herbs and spices is often kept secret by the local chefs who prepare the recipe, it is frequently said to include juniper, oregano, thyme, and garlic.

Once all of the ingredients are combined in the casserole, they are cooked together at a low temperature for several hours. This slow cooking process helps to create a succulent texture that pairs perfectly with the crisp sweetness of the red peppers.

For many locals, Nocciolini di Canzo is a cherished culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations. For visitors, though, it provides an unforgettable taste of traditional Italian cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a hearty lunch or a delicious dinner accompaniment, this flavorful dish makes for a truly delectable experience.

The origin of Nocciolini di Canzo

Nocciolini di Canzo. A name that has evoked a sense of utter divine indulgence within the hearts and minds of its many devotees, since time immemorial. A delectable treat, hailing from the small town of Canzo, located near the breathtakingly beautiful Lake Como in Italy.

As the story goes, the recipe for Nocciolini di Canzo was discovered by chance by a nearby rural farmer in the late 1800s. After gathering some hazelnuts in the woods one day, the farmer was inspired to take them home and craft a sweet, crunchy treat with simple ingredients from his local pantry. The result? An irresistible delight made from butter, sugar, wheat flour and hazelnuts that quickly became a favorite amongst the locals.

In the decades since, the popularity of Nocciolini has only grown with each passing year. Nowadays, it is widely regarded as one of the authority figures of Italian cuisine – joining the likes of pasta, pizza and risotto as highlights of Italian gastronomy. In fact, Nocciolini di Canzo are so beloved that they have even been declared a Slow Food Presidium, a title bestowed upon products that capture the essence of Italian culture and cuisine.

The adoration surrounding these sumptuous treats is easy to understand once you have tasted them. Not to mention, their versatility is astounding as they can be enjoyed on their own or incorporated into everything from ice cream to milkshakes. On top of all this, they are sure to fill any kitchen with the heavenly scent of roasted hazelnuts – a bonus that will without fail make your dining experience all the more exquisite.

All in all, Nocciolini di Canzo are a culinary force to be reckoned with, and it’s no wonder that they've managed to remain a staple in Italian food culture for over a century.

Types of Nocciolini di Canzo

where necessary

Nocciolini di Canzo is a delicious traditional recipe originating from the alpine village of Canzo in Italy. It's an ancient dish, believed to date back to the 16th century and still popular today. It's an exquisite combination of ingredients that provides a savory and succulent feast - a hearty and flavorful dish!

The most important ingredient in Nocciolini di Canzo is the nocciolini, which are small pieces of poached lean beef or pork. The meat is slow-cooked in a marinade of red wine, garlic, onions, anchovies, bay leaves, cloves, and pepper until tender. It's then drained and cut into small cubes and combined with capers, parsley, and olive oil. The ingredients are then formed into croquettes and fried in olive oil until crispy brown. This final step gives this classic Italian dish its unique golden color and crunchy texture.

Another key component of the dish is the polenta, used to bind the croquettes together. A thick cornmeal mush is produced by boiling the cornmeal in water or broth, and then allowed to cool. It's then combined with the cooked nocciolini and shaped into ovals.

The last ingredient used in Nocciolini di Canzo is parmesan cheese. This rich and flavorful cheese adds depth and complexity to the dish, while providing a sharp contrast to the softness of the beef and polenta.

Once all the ingredients are prepped, the croquettes are fried in hot oil until golden and crispy. For a truly indulgent experience, they can be served atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, accompanied with a fragrant and flavourful tomato sauce.

Nocciolini di Canzo is a timeless and satisfying Italian classic. The combination of simple yet distinct ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.