Recipe: Polta di Pacentro, the peasant dish that symbolises the traditions of Abruzzo

Traditional cuisine often preserves the most authentic flavours of a region. In Pacentro, one of the most charming villages in Abruzzo, in the heart of the Maiella National Park, this culinary heritage is known as Polta: a humble dish rooted in peasant culture, prepared with just a few simple ingredients that nonetheless tell the story of centuries of history and rural life.

Beans, potatoes, cabbage, extra virgin olive oil, garlic and chilli are transformed into a hearty and authentic dish, which still takes centre stage on local tables today and is celebrated every summer during the traditional Polta Festival, one of the village’s most eagerly awaited culinary events.

Pacentro, the medieval village at the foot of the Maiella

Perched on the slopes of Mount Morrone, Pacentro, in the province of L’Aquila, is one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy and is one of the most picturesque destinations in inland Abruzzo. Dominated by the imposing Caldora Castle with its distinctive towers, it boasts a medieval historic centre featuring stone-paved alleyways, small squares, stately homes and panoramic views over the Peligna Valley.

The village’s origins are very ancient, and its history is linked to the great feudal families who made it one of the valley’s most important centres. The castle, first documented as early as the 10th century and extended in the 15th century by the Caldora family, remains the symbol of Pacentro to this day and bears witness to centuries of historical events that have shaped the region.

A stroll through the village means immersing yourself in an authentic atmosphere, where history, traditions and nature coexist harmoniously amongst the Maiella mountains.

La Polta: the flavour of country cooking

La Polta originated as a traditional peasant dish, when families would prepare hearty meals using whatever their vegetable gardens and pantries had to offer.

Beans, potatoes and cabbage were readily available and nutritious ingredients, perfect for getting through long days’ work in the fields. The dish was simply flavoured with a sauté of garlic, extra virgin olive oil and, for those who preferred stronger flavours, a pinch of chilli.

It is a dish that embodies a cuisine based on simplicity, seasonality and respect for the ingredients, and one that still captivates today with its authentic flavour.

Ingredients

Serves 4–6 people

500 g savoy cabbage (one small head)
200 g pre-cooked borlotti beans
4 medium potatoes
1 clove of garlic
extra virgin olive oil
chilli (optional)
salt to taste

Process

Trim the savoy cabbage by removing the tough outer leaves and cut it into strips.
Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes.
In a large saucepan, heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil with the lightly crushed clove of garlic and the chilli.
When the oil is fragrant, add the savoy cabbage and let it wilt slowly for a few minutes.
Then add the pre-cooked beans and the diced potatoes. Stir gently, season with salt and add a little water if necessary.
Leave to cook over a low heat until the potatoes are very soft and almost falling apart, blending with the other ingredients to create a creamy consistency.
La Polta can be served with more liquid, like a soup, or left to reduce slightly until it becomes a thicker dish, which is also ideal as a side dish. Serve with toasted country bread and a good extra virgin olive oil.

Ph. lacuocaignorante

A recipe that is revived every summer during the Polta festival

La Polta is not just a traditional dish; it is one of the symbols of Pacentro’s culinary identity. Every year, the village holds a festival in its honour, attracting visitors from across the region and beyond.

In the picturesque Piazza Umberto I, you can sample this ancient recipe prepared in the traditional way, alongside other typical products from Abruzzo, whilst music and entertainment bring the streets of the historic centre to life.

It is a special opportunity to discover the local culinary culture and experience the authentic atmosphere of one of the most beautiful villages in the Maiella.