Dish

Barbagiuan

Monégasque Stuffed Turnovers

Barbagiuan is a delicious and savory pastry that is perfect for a snack or appetizer. The filling is made with Swiss chard, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese, which gives it a rich and creamy flavor. The pastry is then fried until crispy, which adds a nice crunch to the dish. Barbagiuan is typically served as an appetizer or snack, but it can also be served as a main course with a side salad. It is a great dish to serve at parties or gatherings, as it is easy to make and can be prepared in advance.

European cuisine› Western European cuisine› Monégasque cuisine

Appetizer

Origins and history

Barbagiuan originated in Monaco and Liguria, Italy, and is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is typically served during the Carnival season, which is celebrated in February or March. The dish is said to have originated from the Ligurian word "barbajuan," which means "Uncle John." The dish was named after a man who was known for his love of Swiss chard and cheese.

Dietary considerations

Barbagiuan is vegetarian and can be made vegan by substituting the cheese with a vegan alternative. It is also gluten-free if made with a gluten-free pastry dough.

Variations

There are many variations of Barbagiuan, with different fillings and pastry doughs. Some variations include vegetarian fillings such as spinach, pumpkin, or leeks. Others use different types of cheese or vegetables. The pastry dough can also be made with different flours, such as cornmeal or rice flour.

Presentation and garnishing

When making Barbagiuan, be sure to roll out the pastry dough thinly, as this will ensure that the filling is evenly distributed and the pastry is crispy. It is also important to seal the edges of the pastry well, to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying. Finally, be sure to fry the Barbagiuan until it is golden brown and crispy, as this will give it the perfect texture. To garnish, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or chopped herbs, such as parsley or basil.

Tips & Tricks

Barbagiuan is best served hot and fresh, so try to fry it just before serving. If you need to make it in advance, you can prepare the filling and pastry dough ahead of time and assemble just before frying. Leftover Barbagiuan can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Side-dishes

Barbagiuan is typically served as an appetizer or snack, but it can also be served as a main course with a side salad. It pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Some traditional side dishes include marinated olives, roasted peppers, or a simple green salad.

Drink pairings

Barbagiuan pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. It can also be served with a side of marinara sauce or aioli for dipping.