Conserve di pomodoro, which translates to tomato preserves (tomato pulp and pieces), are a traditional culinary specialty of the Abruzzo region in Italy. This delicious preserve is made using ripe tomatoes that are carefully selected and processed to maintain their natural flavors. It can be found in various towns and communes of Abruzzo, including Pescara, Chieti, Teramo, and L’Aquila.
The history of tomato preserves in Abruzzo dates back centuries, with the region being known for its fertile lands and abundant tomato harvests. The tomatoes used for these preserves are typically locally grown and picked at the peak of their ripeness. The tomatoes are then processed and cooked to create a rich and flavorful pulp, with some pieces of tomato left for added texture.
One popular recipe using tomato preserves is “Pasta alla Chitarra con Conserve di Pomodoro,” which is a traditional dish from the town of Chieti. This recipe involves cooking pasta, typically the square-shaped “chitarra” pasta, and tossing it with a sauce made from tomato preserves, garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil. The result is a simple yet delicious pasta dish that showcases the flavors of the tomato preserves.
Another recipe that highlights the use of tomato preserves is “Polpette di Pomodoro,” which are tomato meatballs. This recipe is popular in the town of Pescara and involves combining ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and tomato preserves. The mixture is then shaped into meatballs and cooked in a tomato sauce made from the preserves. These tomato meatballs are a flavorful and unique twist on the traditional meatball recipe.
The tomato preserves from Abruzzo have gained recognition and protection under the “PAT” (Prodotti Agroalimentari Tradizionali) label, which aims to safeguard and promote traditional Italian food products. The specifications for these preserves include the use of locally grown tomatoes, traditional processing methods, and adherence to quality standards.
Sources:
1. “Conserve di pomodoro” – www.abruzzoturismo.it
2. “Pasta alla Chitarra con Conserve di Pomodoro” – www.cucinare.abruzzo.it
3. “Polpette di Pomodoro” – www.abruzzocultura.it
4. “Prodotti Agroalimentari Tradizionali” – www.ministerodellagricoltura.it