Bagna Cauda
Bagna Cauda is a soul-warming traditional dish from the Piedmont region of Italy, literally meaning "hot bath." This iconic dip combines the pungent kick of slow-cooked garlic with the deep, salty umami of anchovies, all melted into a luxurious pool of olive oil and butter. The result is an incredibly aromatic and flavorful sauce that transforms simple raw vegetables into a gourmet experience. It is the perfect centerpiece for a lively winter gathering, encouraging friends and family to gather around the table, dipping crisp celery, tender artichokes, and crunchy endive into the steaming pot. The flavors are bold yet balanced, offering a comforting warmth that pairs beautifully with crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of the savory goodness.
Description
Bagna Cauda is a soul-warming traditional dish from the Piedmont region of Italy, literally meaning "hot bath." This iconic dip combines the pungent kick of slow-cooked garlic with the deep, salty umami of anchovies, all melted into a luxurious pool of olive oil and butter. The result is an incredibly aromatic and flavorful sauce that transforms simple raw vegetables into a gourmet experience. It is the perfect centerpiece for a lively winter gathering, encouraging friends and family to gather around the table, dipping crisp celery, tender artichokes, and crunchy endive into the steaming pot. The flavors are bold yet balanced, offering a comforting warmth that pairs beautifully with crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of the savory goodness.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 pound butter
- 3 to 5 cloves of garlic, chopped fine
- 6 anchovy fillets, mashed
Directions
- 1 Heat the olive oil and butter together gently in a double boiler or a heavy-bottomed saucepan over low heat.
- 2
In a separate small skillet, cook the chopped garlic in a splash of the oil mixture until it is soft and fragrant but not browned.- 3
Add the mashed anchovy fillets to the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until they dissolve into a smooth paste, about 5 minutes.- 4
Pour the garlic and anchovy mixture into the pot of hot oil and butter, stirring to combine thoroughly.- 5
Keep the dip warm over very low heat. Serve immediately with celery, artichoke hearts, endive, cucumbers, green onions, and French bread for dipping.NoteKeep the heat very low to prevent the garlic from burning, which would make the dip bitter.
This dip is best served immediately while hot. If making ahead, reheat gently on the stovetop.
For a milder flavor, reduce the number of anchovy fillets or garlic cloves.
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