Pa amb oli
Bread with olive oil, often served with tomato and other toppings.
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.
Panadería S'Estació
Pa amb oli, meaning 'bread with oil' in Catalan, likely originated as a humble peasant dish, a way to make stale bread palatable and nutritious. The use of olive oil reflects the Mediterranean agricultural landscape and the long history of olive cultivation in the region. Its simplicity suggests a history rooted in resourcefulness and making the most of available ingredients.
Pa amb oli is more than just a dish; it's a symbol of Catalan and Balearic culture, representing simplicity, resourcefulness, and the importance of sharing a meal. It's a common sight at family gatherings, picnics, and informal meals.
Simplicity and Resourcefulness
Pa amb oli embodies the values of making the most of what you have. It started as a way to use leftover bread, highlighting the importance of minimizing waste.
Sharing and Community
The dish is often prepared communally, with everyone participating in rubbing the bread with tomato or adding their favorite toppings. This fosters a sense of togetherness and connection.
Regional Identity
Pa amb oli is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of Catalonia and the Balearic Islands, serving as a reminder of local ingredients and cultural heritage.
The flavor profile of Pa amb oli is simple yet satisfying, revolving around the quality of the ingredients. The earthy bread provides a base for the fruity olive oil, often complemented by the bright acidity of tomato and the savory notes of salt.
The dominant flavor is that of good quality extra virgin olive oil, with its fruity, peppery, and sometimes slightly bitter notes. The bread provides a neutral canvas but should have a subtle sourdough or yeasty flavor. When rubbed with tomato, the dish gains a refreshing acidity and sweetness. Salt enhances all the flavors, bringing them into balance. Optional additions like garlic, cheese, or cured meats add layers of complexity and umami.
Use High-Quality Olive Oil
The olive oil is the star of the show, so choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil with a flavor that you enjoy. Look for oils that are fruity, peppery, or slightly bitter.
Choose Crusty Bread
A crusty bread with a good crumb is essential. Rustic country bread or a baguette works well. Stale bread is acceptable, as the olive oil will soften it.
Use Ripe Tomatoes
The tomatoes should be ripe and juicy. Cut the tomato in half and rub the cut side vigorously over the bread until the bread is coated with pulp and juice. Avoid using a food processor as this introduces too much water.
Add a Pinch of Salt
A sprinkle of sea salt helps to enhance the flavors of the olive oil and tomato. Use a good quality sea salt.
Don't Overload with Toppings
While toppings are welcome, keep it simple. Too many toppings can overpower the basic flavors of the bread, oil, and tomato.
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