Pasta con le sarde

Pasta con le sarde is a traditional Sicilian dish that combines pasta with sardines, fennel, raisins, and pine nuts. It is a representative dish of Palermo, and is often consumed during the feast of Saint Joseph.

History

The origins of pasta con le sarde are believed to date back to the Arab occupation of Sicily in the 9th century. The dish is a perfect example of the Arab influence on Sicilian cuisine, combining ingredients that were readily available on the island with those brought by the Arabs, such as raisins and pine nuts.

Ingredients and Preparation

The main ingredients of pasta con le sarde are bucatini or spaghetti, fresh sardines, wild fennel, raisins, pine nuts, onion, anchovies, saffron, and breadcrumbs. Some variations may include other ingredients such as tomato sauce or almonds.

The preparation involves cooking the pasta and making the sauce separately. The sauce is made by sautéing the onions, anchovies, and sardines, then adding the fennel, raisins, and pine nuts. The saffron is dissolved in a little water and added to the sauce. The pasta is then mixed with the sauce and topped with toasted breadcrumbs before serving.

Variations

There are several variations of pasta con le sarde. In some versions, tomato sauce is added to the dish. In others, the pasta is layered with the sauce and baked in the oven, similar to a pasta bake. Some recipes also substitute the sardines with other types of fish.

Cultural Significance

Pasta con le sarde is traditionally consumed during the feast of Saint Joseph, the patron saint of Sicily. The dish is also a popular choice during the Lent season, as it does not contain any meat.