Frico Recipe Traditional Italian Cheese Pancake From Friuli

The Frico I Love Italian Food Italian recipes, Food, Country cooking

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Table of Contents

1. What is Frico?
2. How is Frico Made?
3. What are the Ingredients?
4. What is the History of Frico?
5. How is Frico Served?

What is Frico?

Frico is a traditional dish from the Friuli region in northeastern Italy. It is a type of crispy cheese pancake made with a combination of shredded cheese and potatoes. The name "frico" comes from the Friulian word "fricò," which means "fried." It is a popular dish in the region and is often enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course.

The origins of frico can be traced back to the rural traditions of Friuli, where it was a way of making use of the local ingredients, particularly cheese. It was a dish that could be easily prepared in the farmhouse kitchens using the cheese and potatoes that were readily available. Over the years, frico has become an iconic dish of the region and is now enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

How is Frico Made?

To make frico, you will need a combination of shredded cheese and potatoes. The most commonly used cheese for frico is Montasio, a traditional cheese from Friuli. However, other cheeses such as Asiago, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or even a combination of different cheeses can be used.

The first step in making frico is to peel and grate the potatoes. The potatoes are then mixed with the shredded cheese and seasoned with salt and pepper. Some variations of frico also include the addition of onions or herbs for added flavor.

Once the mixture is ready, a non-stick pan is heated over medium heat, and a small amount of olive oil is added. The potato and cheese mixture is then spread evenly in the pan and cooked until golden and crispy on both sides. It is important to flip the frico carefully to maintain its shape and allow it to crisp up evenly.

Once the frico is cooked, it is removed from the pan and drained on paper towels to remove any excess oil. It can then be served immediately while still warm and crispy.

What are the Ingredients?

The main ingredients for frico are cheese and potatoes. The type of cheese used can vary, but Montasio is the most commonly used cheese in the traditional frico recipe. Montasio is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk and has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor.

For the potatoes, a starchy variety such as russet or Yukon gold is preferred. The potatoes are peeled and grated before being mixed with the shredded cheese. Salt and pepper are used to season the mixture, and some variations of frico may also include onions or herbs such as rosemary or thyme.

Other optional ingredients that can be added to frico include bacon, ham, or sausage for added flavor and protein. These ingredients are usually cooked and crumbled before being mixed with the potato and cheese mixture.

What is the History of Frico?

The history of frico can be traced back to the rural traditions of the Friuli region in northeastern Italy. It was a dish that originated in the farmhouse kitchens, where cheese and potatoes were readily available ingredients. Frico was a way for the locals to make use of these ingredients and create a delicious and filling dish.

In the past, Friuli was an agricultural region where cheese production was a common practice. The cows grazed in the meadows, and their milk was used to make cheese. The excess cheese that couldn't be consumed fresh was preserved by drying or aging. Frico was a way to use the aged or dried cheese, which had a stronger flavor, and combine it with potatoes to create a hearty and flavorful dish.

Over the years, frico has become an iconic dish of Friuli and is often associated with the region's culinary traditions. It is considered a comfort food and is often served during special occasions and celebrations. Frico has also gained popularity outside of Friuli and is now enjoyed in other parts of Italy and even internationally.

How is Frico Served?

Frico can be served in various ways, depending on personal preferences and the occasion. It is often enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course.

As an appetizer, frico is usually served in smaller portions. It can be served on its own or accompanied by a variety of toppings or dips. Some popular toppings for frico include prosciutto, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness. It can also be served with a side of mixed greens or a light salad.

As a main course, frico can be served in larger portions. It can be served with a side of sautéed vegetables or a tomato salad for a complete meal. Some variations of frico may also include the addition of cooked bacon, ham, or sausage, which adds protein and richness to the dish.

Regardless of how it is served, frico is best enjoyed when it is still warm and crispy. The combination of the melted cheese and crispy potatoes creates a delightful texture and flavor that is hard to resist.

Conclusion

In conclusion, frico is a delicious and traditional dish from the Friuli region in northeastern Italy. It is a crispy cheese pancake made with a combination of shredded cheese and potatoes. Frico is a dish that reflects the rural traditions of Friuli, where cheese and potatoes were readily available ingredients. Over the years, frico has become an iconic dish of the region and is now enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, frico is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. It can be accompanied by a variety of toppings or served with a side of vegetables or salad. The combination of melted cheese and crispy potatoes creates a delightful texture and flavor that is hard to resist.

So, if you ever have the chance to visit Friuli or come across frico on a menu, be sure to give it a try. It is a dish that truly embodies the country cooking of Italy and will leave you craving for more.