Our popular Early Bird menu

22 Feb Our popular Early Bird menu

The origins of popular Italian dishes from our Early Bird Menu

Giovanni’s takes immense pride in presenting our Early Bird menu, a culinary journey that encapsulates the flavors and heritage of Italy. Italian cuisine enjoys global acclaim for its rich history and cultural significance. While dishes like pasta and pizza have been embraced worldwide, have you ever pondered the origins of our popular Early Bird menu items? Let’s delve into the historical roots of these delectable dishes.

1. Garlic Bread: A Taste of Naples

The captivating aroma of Garlic Bread with cheese and tomato is a universal favorite. This beloved starter traces its roots to Naples, Italy, dating back to the 14th century. The recipe for garlic bread was first recorded in Liber de Coquina – The Book of Cookery. However, it bore little resemblance to the garlic bread we cherish today.

In its earliest form, traditional garlic bread consisted of fermented dough, flattened into thin sheets, boiled, and garnished with cheese and spices. Over the years, this recipe evolved to incorporate meat, giving rise to the classic Neapolitan dish, Lasagne di Carnevale. This sumptuous lasagne is a layered masterpiece of sausage, meatballs, hard-boiled eggs, ricotta, mozzarella, all smothered in Neapolitan ragù. At Giovanni’s, we pay homage to this heritage with our range of lasagne variations, including the classic, vegetarian, and Bolognese styles.

2. Polpette Con Piselli: A Traditional Delicacy

While many believe spaghetti and meatballs to be an Italian staple, this dish is surprisingly non-existent in Italy. The true Italian meatball, known as Polpette, is traditionally made from ground beef or veal, combined with vegetables and bread. The exact origins of Polpette remain somewhat shrouded in history, but there’s evidence to suggest they date back to the time of the Roman Empire.

You can find ancient recipes in a cookbook authored by Apicius, who lived in 25 AD. Many people often assume our garlic bread is an Italian creation, and indeed, it has Italian origins. However, it has undergone significant transformations over the years. The earliest iteration of garlic bread emerged in Tuscany and was reminiscent of bruschetta.

This original garlic bread featured toasted bread rubbed with garlic, drizzled with extra-virgin olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper, and heated. It likely served as a clever way to repurpose old or stale bread, ensuring nothing went to waste. Like many Italian eateries worldwide, we have added our unique twist by incorporating cheese and tomato, creating a delightful fusion between classic garlic bread and pizza.

3. Lasagne Verde: A Green and Delicious Twist

Lasagne Verde, a popular item on our Early Bird menu, offers a refreshing twist on traditional lasagne. This delightful dish showcases the versatility of Italian cuisine. Originating from Emilia-Romagna, Lasagne Verde stands out with its vibrant green pasta.

The green pasta is crafted by incorporating spinach or other leafy greens into the dough, creating its unique color. Furthermore, Lasagne Verde boasts a harmonious combination of elements, including luscious béchamel sauce, flavourful meat ragù, and generous layers of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. This delectable medley truly encapsulates the quintessence of Italian cuisine.

4. The Universality of Italian Cuisine

As we delve into the roots of these beloved Italian dishes, it’s clear that Italian cuisine has not only transcended borders but also skilfully adapted to suit local preferences. Despite their humble origins in distinct Italian regions, these dishes have gracefully evolved and seamlessly integrated into menus across the globe.

Conclusion

Giovanni’s proudly embraces the rich heritage of Italian cuisine, generously sharing both traditional and contemporary dishes with our valued patrons. Our Early Bird menu stands as a testament to the timeless allure of Italian flavors, all while demonstrating the ingenuity of chefs who consistently rejuvenate and reimagine classic recipes. Furthermore, we ardently invite you to embark on this flavorful journey with us.

Visit us at our address:

125A King Street, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6EH

For reservation, contact us at 01565 632 576 or email us at [email protected].

Indulge in the tastes of Italy at Giovanni’s, where culinary traditions meet modern innovation, and every bite is a journey to the heart of Italy.

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