The bagna cauda is a typical preparation of Piedmont based on anchovies and garlic. A “hot sauce” that is usually served and accompanied by fresh and cooked vegetables. A must-try for dinner with friends.
The bagna cauda is one of the symbolic preparations of Piedmont. A very tasty sauce made with anchovies and garlic which also boasts days of celebration, the one dedicated to Bagna Cauda Day which takes place every year in Asti. The recipe we have today is the one deposited at the Italian Academy of Cuisine, and considered “the most reliable and handed down” by the commission of judging experts.
Bagna cauda literally means “hot sauce” and is prepared by letting the garlic cloves and anchovies (preferably red type from Spain) slowly cook in extra virgin olive oil, until they are completely flaked.
It is traditionally served in a typical earthenware stove to maintain the heat, accompanied by raw vegetables (such as the “hunchback” cardoon from Nizza Monferrato or peppers) and cooked vegetables (from Jerusalem artichoke to boiled potatoes, passing through savoy cabbage)
Start by peeling the garlic. Remove the bud and cut each clove in half lengthwise. Now dedicate yourself to the anchovies. First, desalt them and then remove the fishbone.
Immerse them for a few minutes in red wine and then pat them dry. Start cooking the garlic cloves in a crock with half the oil and mix with a wooden spoon.
Add the anchovy fillets and the remaining oil. Simmer for about 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Be careful not to burn the oil. The cooking must be very gentle: for better heat dispersion, place a flame spreader under the crock. Toward the end, you can help yourself with the wooden spoon by flaking the garlic cloves which will have softened in the meantime. Once ready, bring the bagna cauda to the table in the pot you cooked, which will keep it warm.
Preserve up to 2 days in the fridge
Add peppers for spiciness
For best results, reheat with a similar container used for cooking
We are Italians. We live in Italy. We love Italian food. PizzaCappuccino is the worldwide landmark for the authentic Italian recipes and the best Italian food. Our daily mission is to collect only the best authentic traditional Italian recipes. Cook Italian, Eat Italian!
