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Timballo nduja e cacio silano

17/11/2023

The ‘nduja and cacio silano timbale is a flavorful dish typical of Calabrese tradition, where the use of ‘nduja, a spicy spreadable salami, pairs perfectly with the saltiness of cacio silano, a Calabrese cheese.

Ingredients

  • 250 g of short pasta (e.g., penne)
  • 150 g of ‘nduja
  • 200 g of cacio silano (or another semi-aged cheese if you can’t find it)
  • 400 ml of tomato purée
  • 1 small chopped onion
  • 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Breadcrumbs, to taste
  • Butter for greasing the pan

Preparation

  1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C.
  2. In a large frying pan, sauté the onion in extra virgin olive oil until it becomes translucent.
  3. Add the ‘nduja in pieces and melt over medium heat, stirring continuously.
  4. Pour the tomato purée into the pan, season with salt and pepper, then let the sauce cook on low heat for about 10 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in boiling salted water, draining it a couple of minutes before the time indicated on the package (it should be al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven).
  6. Cut the cacio silano into small cubes or grate it if preferred.
  7. In a large bowl, mix the pasta with the ‘nduja sauce and half of the cacio silano.
  8. Butter a baking dish and sprinkle the bottom and sides with breadcrumbs.
  9. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spread it evenly, and sprinkle the surface with the remaining cacio silano.
  10. Bake the timbale for about 20 minutes or until the surface becomes golden and crispy.
  11. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Curiosity

The ‘nduja and cacio silano timbale is a robust and spicy dish that reflects the culinary roots of Calabria. ‘Nduja, with its strong and slightly smoky flavor, is a distinctive ingredient in the region, while cacio silano provides a nice texture and rich flavor that balances the spiciness of the ‘nduja. In Calabria, families often prepare this dish during festivities or family gatherings to delight their guests with something memorably flavorful and comforting.