Il Cucinologo
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Timballo 'Nduja and Cacio Silano

17/11/2023

The timballo with ‘nduja and cacio silano is a flavorful dish typical of Calabrian tradition, where the use of ‘nduja, a spicy and spreadable cured meat, pairs perfectly with the savoriness of cacio silano, a Calabrian cheese.

Ingredients

  • 250 g short pasta (for example penne)
  • 150 g ‘nduja
  • 200 g cacio silano (or another semi-aged cheese if you can’t find it)
  • 400 ml tomato passata
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Breadcrumbs, to taste
  • Butter for greasing the baking dish

Preparation

  1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C.
  2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion in the extra virgin olive oil until it becomes translucent.
  3. Add the ‘nduja in pieces and let it melt over medium heat, stirring continuously.
  4. Pour the tomato passata into the skillet, adjust salt and pepper, then let the sauce simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in boiling salted water, draining it a couple of minutes before the time indicated on the package (it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven).
  6. Cut the cacio silano into small cubes or grate it if you prefer.
  7. In a large bowl, mix the pasta with the ‘nduja sauce and half of the cacio silano.
  8. Butter a baking dish and sprinkle the bottom and sides with breadcrumbs.
  9. Pour the pasta mixture into the baking dish, spread it evenly, and sprinkle the surface with the remaining cacio silano.
  10. Bake the timballo for about 20 minutes or until the surface is golden and crispy.
  11. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Fun Facts

The timballo with ‘nduja and cacio silano is a hearty and spicy dish that reflects the culinary roots of Calabria. The ‘nduja, with its strong and slightly smoky flavor, is a distinctive ingredient of the region, while cacio silano adds a nice texture and rich flavor that balances the spiciness of the ‘nduja. In Calabria, families often prepare this dish during holidays or family gatherings to delight their guests with something memorably tasty and comforting.