The Panecotte of San Giovanni Rotondo and its unique history

What is the Panecotte of San Giovanni Rotondo?

The Panecotte of San Giovanni Rotondo, known in dialect as Lu Panecotte, is one of the most authentic dishes of Gargano tradition. It originated as a poor dish, made with a few simple yet flavorful ingredients: stale bread, potatoes, wild vegetables, and extra virgin olive oil. It is a symbol of the peasant cuisine of Gargano, where nothing was wasted and every food was creatively valued.

What are the ingredients of the real Panecotte of San Giovanni Rotondo?

For four people, you need: half an onion, two cloves of garlic, a bunch of parsley, a bay leaf, four or five medium-sized potatoes, mixed wild vegetables (such as chicory, chard, borage, or wild fennel), two or three ripe cherry tomatoes, a handful of local black olives, salt to taste, extra virgin olive oil from Gargano, and stale bread cut into large pieces. These ingredients represent the most authentic Puglia, made of genuine flavors and products from the Gargano land.

How is the Panecotte of San Giovanni Rotondo prepared?

The preparation is simple but requires attention to detail. In a large pot, put water, onion, garlic, parsley, bay leaf, sliced potatoes, cherry tomatoes, and salt. When the water starts to boil, add the wild vegetables. Once the potatoes are cooked, add the pieces of stale bread and let them soften for a few minutes. Finally, drain the excess water and season with a generous drizzle of raw extra virgin olive oil and black olives.

What is the history of Panecotte in San Giovanni Rotondo?

Panecotte originated as a peasant dish in the homes of San Giovanni Rotondo, when stale bread was a precious resource and the wild vegetables from the fields were hand-picked. After a long day of work, this hot and nutritious dish represented comfort for the family. Over time, Panecotte has become a recipe of memory, a symbol of local identity and belonging.

Why is Panecotte considered a symbol dish of Gargano?

Because it embodies the values of simple and genuine life in Gargano. It is a dish that speaks of solidarity, family, and love for nature. Its aroma, which spreads in homes when garlic and parsley meet warm olive oil, is the same as that which was felt in kitchens of the past.

What type of vegetables are used in the Panecotte of San Giovanni Rotondo?

In the traditional Panecotte, the typical wild vegetables of Gargano are used: wild chicories, borage, fennel, and small chards. These are vegetables with a strong flavor that perfectly match the sweetness of potatoes and the rusticity of bread. Today, those who cannot gather wild vegetables can replace them with cultivated vegetables, but the authentic taste remains that of spontaneous herbs.

How is the Panecotte of San Giovanni Rotondo served?

The Panecotte is served hot, freshly drained, in a terracotta bowl. It is completed with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil from Gargano and some black olives. Accompanied by a glass of local red wine, such as Nero di Troia or Montepulciano del Tavoliere, it becomes a complete culinary experience.

Where can you taste the Panecotte in San Giovanni Rotondo?

Those visiting San Giovanni Rotondo can find Panecotte in traditional taverns and typical trattorias in the historic center. During fairs and popular festivals dedicated to Gargano products, this dish often takes center stage and is served in large pots, as tradition dictates.

Why do tourists love the Panecotte of San Giovanni Rotondo?

Because it offers a journey into the authentic flavors of Puglia. Those arriving in the city for religious or cultural reasons discover in this dish another way to get to know the territory. The Panecotte is not just a dish, but a tale of stories, families, and seasons, prepared with the same passion as in the past.

Can you prepare Panecotte at home?

Yes, it is an easy dish to replicate at home. It requires a few genuine ingredients and a bit of patience. Preparing it is like taking a dive into the past: a way to bring the authentic flavor of San Giovanni Rotondo and Gargano to your table.

What is the connection between Panecotte and the Mediterranean cuisine of Gargano?

The Panecotte perfectly represents Mediterranean cuisine: poor but healthy ingredients, slow cooking, and the aroma of good oil. It is a balanced dish, rich in fiber and vitamins, but above all full of history and identity. Every spoonful is a tribute to the Gargano land and its people, who have managed to transform simplicity into excellence.