Tumact me tulez

Tumact me tulez (or tumacë me tulë in Albanian) is a traditional pasta dish originating from the southern region of Italy, specifically Basilicata. The dish is of Arbëreshe origin, a community that settled in Italy in the 15th century to escape the Ottoman invasion of the Balkans. The name of the dish translates to "tagliatelle with bread crumbs".

History

The dish is a culinary staple of Barile, a village located in the province of Potenza. The Arbëreshe settlers brought the recipe with them when they migrated from the Balkans. Over time, the dish has integrated with the local cuisine, reflecting the cultural blend of the region.

Historically, the preparation of Tumact me tulez was associated with significant events such as weddings, Saint Joseph's Day and Christmas. It was a dish of celebration, prepared and enjoyed on these special occasions.

Preparation and Ingredients

Tumact me tulez is a pasta dish that is served with tomato filets or tomato sauce, and anchovy. The pasta is typically tagliatelle, a type of pasta that is long and flat, similar to fettuccine.

The dish is garnished with fried bread crumbs, chopped walnuts, garlic, and parsley. For those who prefer a bit of heat, dried chili pepper can be added to the dish. The combination of these ingredients creates a unique flavor profile that is both savory and slightly spicy.

Cultural Significance

Despite its Arbëreshe origin, Tumact me tulez has become a part of the local cuisine of Basilicata. It is a testament to the cultural blend that has occurred over centuries in this region of Italy. The dish is a symbol of the Arbëreshe community's resilience and their ability to maintain their cultural identity while integrating with the local Italian culture.