Dive into the heart of Italian cuisine with the exquisite flavors of Friggione—a delightful dish that transforms humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece! Imagine the sweet aroma of slowly caramelized onions mingling with ripe, juicy tomatoes, creating a sauce that's rich, thick, and bursting with flavor. Whether you're looking for a comforting side dish, a perfect pasta companion, or a sumptuous spread for crusty bread, this Traditional Italian Friggione is sure to impress. Join us as we guide you through the simple yet rewarding process of crafting this timeless recipe that will leave your taste buds singing and your guests asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by thoroughly washing and preparing the fresh ingredients. Peel the onions and slice them very thinly using a sharp knife, creating uniform, translucent pieces.
- Select a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or cast-iron skillet. Heat the olive oil over medium-low heat, ensuring the temperature is gentle to prevent burning.
- Add the thinly sliced onions to the heated olive oil, spreading them evenly across the pan. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even caramelization.
- Allow the onions to cook gradually, reducing heat if necessary, until they become soft, translucent, and start to turn a light golden color. This process should take approximately 20-25 minutes.
- Add the chopped ripe tomatoes to the caramelized onions, stirring gently to combine. Season with salt to taste, ensuring even distribution of seasoning.
- Continue cooking the mixture on low heat, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes will break down and merge with the onions, creating a rich, thick sauce.
- Simmer the friggione uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce and thicken.
- Once the sauce has reached a desired consistency and the onions are extremely tender, remove from heat.
- Let the friggione rest for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to further develop and settle.
- Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves, which will add a bright, aromatic finish to the dish.
- Serve warm as a side dish, pasta accompaniment, or spread on crusty Italian bread.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: The key to a delicious Friggione lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes and sweet, large onions for the best flavor.
- Slice Evenly: For even cooking, slice the onions as thinly as possible. This ensures they caramelize perfectly and become soft and sweet.
- Low and Slow: Patience is essential in this recipe. Cook the onions on low heat to allow them to caramelize without burning. This slow cooking process enhances their natural sweetness.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Add salt gradually and adjust according to your preference to bring out the flavors of the onions and tomatoes.
- Let It Rest: Allow the Friggione to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This resting period helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Garnish for Freshness: Don’t skip the fresh basil! It adds a lovely aromatic touch that elevates the dish and enhances its presentation.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy Friggione warm as a side dish, over pasta, or as a topping for toasted Italian bread. Its versatility makes it a fantastic addition to any meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 194kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
