Sicilian's ancient forerunner of pizza, a delightful dish steeped in traditionalism, is a culinary must-have when traveling to Sicily.
In the heart of southeastern Sicily lies the region of Ragusa, a gastronomic haven known for its authentic scaccia. This hearty, versatile dish, with roots dating back before the widespread popularity of modern pizza, has become a beloved staple for locals and tourists alike.
At its core, scaccia is a thin, unleavened or lightly leavened dough made from flour, water, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. The magic of scaccia lies within its fillings, which offer a symphony of flavours. From creamy ricotta cheese blended with spinach and fragrant herbs, to fresh, earthy notes of ricotta with green fava beans, and the iconic variation featuring tomato and onion, every bite is bursting with concentrated flavour.
One of the best spots to savour this Sicilian delight is I Banchi in Ragusa Ibla. This notable establishment crafts scaccia daily, using a thin, hand-rolled dough and baking it in a wood-fired oven. I Banchi's scaccia boasts a distinctive, crispy crust and a tender, flavourful interior, making it a must-try for any food enthusiast.
The art of preparing scaccia has been passed down through generations, preserving a culinary form that speaks volumes about Sicilian resilience and identity. The key to scaccia is the generous layering of these ingredients, ensuring every bite is a delightful explosion of flavour.
Scaccia is incredibly versatile, making it an ideal food to take with you. Whether you're planning a picnic, a beach outing, or simply need a convenient meal to eat on the go, scaccia's robust nature and portable format make it the perfect choice.
Traditional scaccia was once a staple of religious festivals and holidays but is now enjoyed year-round and can be found in local bakeries and delis across the island. While specific restaurant recommendations for scaccia in Ragusa are scarce, Risiu, located at Via Dei Normanni 13, is highly rated for Sicilian and Mediterranean cuisine, including street food. As a place focused on local products like cheeses and ricotta, this restaurant might serve authentic scaccia or something similar.
For the most authentic scaccia experience, however, it's best to visit family-run bakeries or traditional trattorias in Ragusa or nearby Modica, where it has been baked since the 17th century. Look for places specializing in regional specialties or ask locals for recommendations to find the best scaccia spots.
In summary, while there is no single standout famous restaurant explicitly known for scaccia, Risiu is a top-rated option where you may find authentic versions, complemented by exploring local bakeries and traditional eateries in Ragusa's historic center. The artisanal nature and local ingredients, like organic olive oil and fresh cheeses featured in authentic scaccia, are key to quality. So, next time you find yourself in Ragusa, be sure to seek out this culinary treasure and taste a piece of Sicilian history.
- The artisanal nature of scaccia, paired with local ingredients like organic olive oil and fresh cheeses, makes it an ideal food for travel and exploration, especially in the heart of Ragusa, where it can be found in family-run bakeries and traditional trattorias.
- Scaccia's versatility is not limited to traditional settings, as it is now enjoyed in various culinary landscape, such as local bakeries and delis, and even high-rated establishments like Risiu, known for their Sicilian and Mediterranean cuisine, including street food.
- As you traverse the food-and-drink landscape of Ragusa, consider incorporating scaccia recipes into your cooking lifestyle, creating a symphony of flavors reminiscent of the authentic scaccia found in this gastronomic haven.
