Discover Lecce's Street Food

A group of young Turks chose Lecce as a destination for an international project dedicated to street food. During their stay, they had the opportunity to explore the unique flavors of Lecce's culinary tradition. From rustici to pasticciotti, and from friselle to puccie, each dish tells a fascinating story.

Rustici leccesi, for instance, are a must-try specialty. This delight consists of puff pastry filled with mozzarella, tomato, and béchamel. Each bite is an explosion of flavors that perfectly represents Salento cuisine. The Turkish youth had the chance to taste this delicacy directly from the city's artisan bakeries.

Friselle, another symbol of local gastronomy, were an unforgettable experience. This twice-baked bread, meant to be soaked and topped with oil, salt, and fresh tomatoes, is a simple yet flavorful dish. The young visitors appreciated the freshness of the ingredients and the tradition behind each preparation.

Pasticciotti, shortcrust pastry sweets filled with cream, won everyone's hearts. This dessert is a must for anyone visiting Lecce, and the Turkish youth couldn't resist the temptation to try them. Each pasticciotto is a small work of art, made with care and passion.

Puccie, another typical dish, are soft bread rolls that can be filled with fresh ingredients. The young people had the opportunity to create their own puccie, choosing from a variety of fillings, from vegetables to local cured meats. This hands-on experience allowed them to better understand Salento's gastronomic culture.

The project, supported by the Yuregir Youth Center in Adana, aims to document street food specialties from different parts of the world. Participants are creating a documentary that highlights the similarities and differences between culinary traditions. Through interviews and footage, they want to tell the stories of the people who prepare these dishes, emphasizing the importance of food as a form of cultural expression.

During their stay, the youth were welcomed by Lecce's mayor, Adriana Poli Bortone, and visited the University of Salento. This warm reception made the experience even more special, allowing them to get to know the city and its people.

Lecce is one of the most fascinating destinations in southern Italy, not only for its architectural beauty but also for its vibrant food scene. Markets, historic shops, and artisan bakeries offer fresh and genuine products, making the city a true paradise for food lovers.

Culinary tourism is becoming increasingly popular, and Lecce is at the heart of this phenomenon. Tourists can enjoy a complete experience that combines art, history, and good food. The project of the young Turks is an example of how food can serve as a bridge between cultures, creating opportunities for exchange and mutual understanding.

If you visit Lecce, don't miss the chance to taste local specialties. Each dish is a journey into the heart of Salento tradition, an opportunity to discover a rich and fascinating culture. Every bite is an invitation to learn about a different story and immerse yourself in a world of unique flavors.