Frico Croccante con Polenta
Crispy frico served with polenta.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Frico, particularly in its crispy form (frico croccante), and polenta are dishes rooted in the peasant traditions of Northern Italy, specifically Friuli. Their origins lie in making the most of available resources. Cheese scraps and cornmeal, readily available to farmers, became the foundations for these simple yet satisfying meals.
Frico and polenta represent the resourcefulness and culinary traditions of Northern Italian farming communities. They are dishes of sustenance and sharing, often enjoyed during family gatherings and festivals.
Regional Identity
Frico is strongly associated with the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of Italy. Variations exist across different valleys and villages, reflecting local cheese production and culinary preferences.
Comfort Food
Both frico and polenta are considered comfort food, evoking a sense of nostalgia and connection to the land and its traditions.
Rustic Simplicity
The dish highlights the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients prepared with minimal intervention, emphasizing the natural flavors.
The dish balances rich, cheesy savoriness with the mild, comforting taste of polenta. The crispy frico provides a textural contrast to the creamy polenta.
The predominant flavor is that of the cheese used in the frico, often a blend of aged mountain cheeses like Montasio or similar local varieties. This delivers a salty, nutty, and intensely savory flavor profile. Polenta, made from coarsely ground cornmeal, offers a subtle sweetness and earthy undertones. The contrast between the crisp, browned cheese and the soft polenta is essential to the overall experience.
Cheese Selection
Use a dry, aged cheese (or a blend) that melts well and has a good fat content for optimal crisping. Too much moisture will prevent crispness.
Polenta Texture
Stir the polenta frequently during cooking to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy consistency. The ratio of water to polenta is crucial for desired thickness.
Frico Crispness
Cook the frico in a non-stick pan over medium heat, allowing the cheese to melt slowly and brown evenly. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature and prevent crisping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the frico immediately while it's still hot and crispy, alongside the warm polenta. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can enhance the flavors.
Explore additional Traditional dishes and restaurants
Explore TraditionalDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Udine.
Explore UdineLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of Italy.
Explore Italy