Teresa's Recipes
Bagna Cauda
Bagna Cauda, which translates to 'warm bath,' is a celebrated dish from the Piedmont region of Italy, perfect for sharing with friends and family. This rich, savory dipping sauce combines the umami flavors of anchovies and the aromatic warmth of garlic, all harmoniously blended with creamy butter and fruity olive oil. Traditionally served with an array of fresh, vibrant vegetables and crusty bread, Bagna Cauda invites you to indulge in a communal dining experience that warms the heart and delights the palate.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf, crusty (such as ciabatta or baguette), sliced Bread
- 4 cups (such as bell peppers, carrots, celery, radishes, and cauliflower), washed and cut into bite-sized pieces Assorted vegetables
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves, minced Garlic
- 6-8 fillets, packed in oil, drained Anchovy fillets
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Appetizer
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 28g
- Carbs: 20g
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 2g
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the olive oil and unsalted butter. Allow them to melt together gently, stirring occasionally to blend.
- Add the minced garlic and anchovy fillets to the saucepan. Stir well, breaking up the anchovies with a wooden spoon as they cook.
- Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, or until the anchovies have completely melted and the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- While the sauce is cooking, prepare your vegetables by washing and cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Arrange the vegetables in a colorful display on a large platter, alongside the sliced bread.
- Once the Bagna Cauda sauce is ready, transfer it to a fondue pot or a small serving bowl to keep it warm.
- Serve immediately, encouraging guests to dip the fresh vegetables and bread into the warm Bagna Cauda, savoring the delightful combination of flavors.
Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables; seasonal produce works best for this dish.
- For a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while cooking.
- Bagna Cauda can also be used as a dressing for grilled meats or seafood.