Cicchetti

Cicchetti are small snacks or side dishes, typically served in traditional "bàcari" (cicchetti bars or osterie) in Venice, Italy. Originating in Venice, cicchetti has become a popular food trend in many parts of the world.

History

The tradition of cicchetti dates back to the 14th century when Venetian taverns started serving small bites to accompany the local wines. The word "cicchetti" comes from the Latin "ciccus", meaning "little thing".

Types of Cicchetti

Cicchetti can be anything from a tiny sandwich, known as a "panino", to a small serving of a local dish. Some of the most popular cicchetti include:

• Polpette: These are small meatballs, typically made from ground meat, bread, and spices. They are often served with a tomato sauce.
• Sarde in saor: This is a traditional Venetian dish made with sardines, onions, vinegar, and raisins.
• Baccalà mantecato: This is a creamy spread made from dried and salted cod, which is rehydrated and whipped with olive oil.

Cicchetti and Venetian Culture

Cicchetti are an integral part of Venetian culture. They are typically enjoyed with a small glass of local wine, known as an "ombra". The tradition of going from bar to bar enjoying cicchetti and wine is known as "andar a cicchetti", which is similar to the Spanish tradition of tapas.

See Also

• Italian cuisine
• Venetian cuisine
• Tapas