Broad beans and pecorino: a May Day tradition.

May Day, known as Labor Day, is celebrated worldwide as a tribute to workers and their struggles for rights and better working conditions.

Spaghetti & Mandolino on this day also seeks to tell the story of culinary art disguised as tradition passed down through the years.

Fava beans and pecorino: an ancient tradition

We find ourselves in Lazio and specifically in Rome, where the tradition consists of eating fava beans and pecorino to celebrate with friends and family the beginning of the beautiful season.

This custom is a wish for happiness and good fortune for the upcoming summer.

They are two simple products, but together they create the right combination: fava beans, a symbol of prosperity and fertility with their delicate yet intense flavor, pair well with the slightly spicy edge of pecorino.

The tradition of eating fava beans and pecorino dates back to ancient Romans who used fava beans to celebrate the goddess Flora, protector of blooming nature and rebirth.

Which pecorino to use?

Pecorino is a cheese made from sheep's milk, which differs from cow's milk cheese due to its fat and casein content.

There are several qualities of pecorino, and the choice can really make a difference in the dish, but according to this ancient tradition, the one that should be paired with fava beans is Roman pecorino.

We wish you a Happy May Day, hoping you can spend this day in relaxation and happiness!