Borlengo facts for kids
Borlengo being filled with traditional cunza
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| Alternative names | Burlengo, zampanelle |
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| Type | Pancake |
| Main ingredients | Water, eggs, flour |
A borlengo (plural: borlenghi) is a super thin, crispy flatbread. It's also known as a burlengo or zampanelle. This special treat comes from the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy.
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What is Borlengo?
Imagine a very large, delicate pancake. That's a borlengo! It's made from a simple batter of water, flour, and salt. Sometimes, a little egg is added too. The batter is spread incredibly thin. This makes the borlengo light and crispy when cooked.
A Taste of History: From Simple Meals to Special Treats
Borlengo has a long history. It started as a humble food for people who didn't have much money. They used basic ingredients like flour and water. This made it a cheap and filling meal. Over time, people started adding more tasty things to it. It became a popular snack or appetizer. Today, borlengo is a beloved traditional dish. It shows how simple ingredients can create something delicious.
How is Borlengo Made?
Making borlengo is a bit like an art! The batter is very watery. It's poured onto a special, very large frying pan. These pans can be as big as a cartwheel! The cook spreads the batter quickly. This creates a super thin layer. It cooks very fast, becoming crispy and golden. The edges often get a bit bubbly and lacy.
What's Inside? The Delicious Fillings!
Once cooked, the borlengo is ready for its yummy toppings. The most traditional topping is called cunza. This is a savory mixture. It often includes rosemary, garlic, and salt pork. Sometimes, cunza is made with sauteed minced pancetta (a type of Italian bacon) and sausage. This gives it a rich, meaty flavor.
After the cunza is spread, the borlengo is folded. It's usually folded into quarters. Then, it's sprinkled with grated Parmigiano. This adds a salty, cheesy finish. The combination of the crispy flatbread and the savory filling is truly unique.
Where Can You Find Borlengo?
Borlengo is a specialty of the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy. You'll often find it at local festivals or markets. It's a popular street food. Many families also make it at home. It's a wonderful way to experience Italian culinary traditions.
