Bofrost · 400 g
Puntarelle
What it is
Puntarelle are the young shoots of a specific variety of chicory, also known as cicoria catalogna. They have a distinctive appearance with hollow, celery-like stalks and small, leafy heads. The flavor is a pleasant, slightly bitter greenness with a refreshing crispness. This product is frozen, preserving its quality for later use. It is a versatile vegetable that brings a unique taste to many dishes.
How people cook with it
Puntarelle are most famously enjoyed raw in salads, but they can also be cooked. Their unique texture and flavor make them a standout ingredient.
- Raw in salads
- Sautéed with garlic
- Blanched for side dishes
- Added to pasta
To prepare puntarelle from frozen, allow them to thaw completely. For raw preparations, such as the classic Roman salad, the stalks are often sliced thinly or julienned and then soaked in ice water to enhance their crispness. This process also helps to mellow the slight bitterness. For cooked dishes, puntarelle can be sautéed with olive oil and garlic until tender, or blanched briefly before being added to pasta or other warm preparations. The cooking time will depend on how tender you prefer them.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike common lettuce or spinach, puntarelle offer a more robust, slightly bitter flavor profile and a satisfying crunch. The hollow stalks are a key characteristic that distinguishes them from other chicory varieties.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking to explore authentic Italian ingredients will appreciate puntarelle.
How to keep the rest
Once thawed, puntarelle should be used promptly. If you have not thawed the entire package, keep the remaining frozen portion in the freezer. Ensure the packaging is sealed to prevent freezer burn. Store in the coldest part of your freezer.