Italian Panada: A Savory Pie Recipe from Northern Italy

Italian Panada is a savory pot pie that is typically prepared in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. The dish is characterized by the presence of “pasta violata” – a dough typically prepared with durum wheat flour and lard – and filled with a variety of ingredients, typically meat (can be lamb or pork) and potatoes. However, the most traditional version is the one from Assemini where it is stuffed with eels, which locals could easily source in the nearby Santa Gilla lagoon. Other ingredients that are found across all variations are sundried tomatoes, parsley, and garlic. Panada is typically a main course and is actually very filling. In recent years, however, smaller versions have become more common, and you can find “sa panadedda” served as an aperitif along with other finger food.

Ingredients

• 4 1/8 cups (500g) semolina flour
• 5.5 tbsp. (65g) lard
• Salt
• 1.5 lbs (680g) russet potatoes
• 1.5 lbs. (680g) lamb shoulder or leg meat, cut into large chunks
• 4-5 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, diced
• Chopped parsley to taste
• Water

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the semolina flour, lard, and salt.
3. Gradually add enough water to the bowl to form a dough.
4. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Cut the dough into two circles, one slightly larger than the other.
7. Place the larger circle of dough in a greased baking dish.
8. Layer the potatoes, lamb, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parsley on top of the dough.
9. Cover the filling with the smaller circle of dough.
10. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the pie.
11. Cut a small hole in the top of the pie to allow steam to escape.
12. Bake the pie for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until the crust is golden brown.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Italian Panada is a savory pie that is perfect for a cozy evening at home. With a semolina flour crust and a filling of lamb, potatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parsley, this dish is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. Give it a try today and enjoy a taste of Italy in your own home!

I hope you enjoy this recipe for Italian Panada.