Typical Lucanian Products of the Basilicata Region

For too long, Basilicata has been an unknown entity to us, but in recent years, thanks in part to filmmakers, comedians, singers, artists, and food artisans, we have started to fall in love with this extraordinary land. Not only for the Sassi di Matera, which were captured first by Pasolini and then by Mel Gibson in their great cinematic works about the Passion of Christ. Nor merely for the more lighthearted Italian film Basilicata Coast to Coast by local author Rocco Papaleo. Rather, it is the Lucanian inhabitants themselves who are gaining great awareness of the beauty of their land.

Artisans of wine and food are increasingly engaging with pride in their Italian identity. This marks a rebirth, evident during the fairs and food and wine events held in Italy and around the world. Although there are not many DOP and IGP products from this land, many regulations are emerging along with requests for certification.

The cities we always mention are the regional capital Potenza and the ancient Matera. However, there are also other beautiful centers such as Pisticci, Melfi, and Policoro. These centers range from the sea to the mountains, passing through narrow and steep yet colorful hills and valleys, especially in autumn.

Basilicata is the "ankle" of our beautiful country. It includes regions like Vulture, which have become famous due to small high-quality wineries. Then there’s the Appennino Lucano, famous for its excellent milk production for ancient cheeses. Another very particular region is the Val d’Agri, where viticulture prevails with installations primarily of international grape varieties.

Basilicata is part of the ancient region of Lucania, which also encompasses parts of Campania and Calabria. Lucania takes its name from the ancient Lucanian people, descendants of the hero Lucus, originating from central Italy. Other origins of the name include the term Lucus, meaning sacred wood, and Lycos, a Greek term meaning wolf, and Lyki, a population from Anatolia.

The origin of the name Basilicata, however, is attributed to the name of the Basilica di Acerenza, whose bishop had jurisdiction over the entire regional territory as we know it today. A medieval pearl remains the Castello di Melfi, which seems to have stopped time. But let’s move on to talk a bit about the typical Lucanian products of Basilicata.

THE TYPICAL LUCAN PRODUCTS OF BASILICATA

As of today, there are only two certified DOP products. The Pecorino di Filiano cheese (here you can find all Lucanian cheeses) and the Bianchi di Rotonda beans cultivated in the Pollino area. The IGP products, on the other hand, include a fascinating baked product like Pane di Matera, also called cornetto for its characteristic shape with a higher part at the top of the loaf. Then there are the Sarconi beans and the delicious Canestrato di Moliterno.

One of the most intriguing products that is becoming increasingly available on Italian tables is the Peperone di Senise IGP, which is dried to acquire a very intense texture and flavor with a sweet spiciness. It’s excellent to crumble directly over pasta and season it with just a little Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

Also of great interest are the products that fall under the Slow Food Presidium. Among these is the Caciocavallo Podolico from Basilicata, excellent after long aging in the cellar. The Red Bean of Pantano di Pignola, named for the red streaks found on its skin. Among other Presidia, we remember the Fried Olives of Ferrandina, the Pear of Sinni Valley, and the Pezzente from the Matera Mountains, a cured meat produced from the less noble parts of the Black Pig of Lucania, complemented with a little sweet-spicy Senise pepper.

Basilicata will increasingly be a region "under observation" for us at Spaghetti & Mandolino, starting from the typical appetizers to wines. It deserves it! You just have to discover our range of typical Lucanian products available online! Happy browsing in Basilicata and buon appetito!