Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Pane con la Milza (Pani câ Meusa): Palermo’s Iconic Street Food Delight
Experience the irresistible flavours of Pane con la Milza, a cherished street food classic from the heart of Palermo you simply must try!
📖 What is it
Experience the irresistible flavours of Pane con la Milza, a cherished street food classic from the heart of Palermo you simply must try!
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 4 sesame rolls
- ✓ 300 g beef spleen
- ✓ Lard for frying
- ✓ Lemon (optional)
- ✓ Ricotta (optional)
- ✓ Caciocavallo cheese (optional)
📊 Nutritional Information
Pane con la Milza, or pani câ meusa, is a true emblem of Palermo’s culinary heritage, telling the story of humble beginnings yet bursting with flavour. This delightful street food was born from the ingenuity of Palermo’s working class, who transformed leftover offal into a satisfying and flavoursome meal. Today, it remains a beloved street snack, served piping hot with a captivating aroma that drifts through the city’s bustling streets. The crunch of sesame-studded bread paired with the tender, lard-fried spleen creates a unique sensory experience. Perfect for a spring or summer lunch enjoyed al fresco or whilst wandering Palermo’s winding alleys, it’s best savoured in good company during those gentle Mediterranean days.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
Boil the spleen and then allow it to cool.
- 2
Slice the spleen into thin strips.
- 3
Heat the lard in a pan, then add the spleen slices.
- 4
Fry the slices until golden and crisp.
- 5
Fill the rolls with the fried spleen and squeeze over a little lemon juice if you fancy.
- 6
For the ‘maritata’ version, add dollops of ricotta and slices of caciocavallo to the rolls and briefly fry again.
- 7
Serve the Pane con la Milza hot, wrapped in paper for an authentic street food experience.
💡 Tips and Variations
For a richer taste, try the ‘maritata’ by adding creamy ricotta and nutty caciocavallo cheese. Alternatively, swap the lemon for a light drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a subtle tang.
📦 Storage
- • Keep refrigerated for up to one day.
- • Reheat in the oven at 160°C for 5 minutes before serving.
- • Avoid freezing to preserve the perfect texture.
🍷 Pairing
Enjoy your Pane con la Milza with a glass of Cerasuolo di Vittoria, a full-bodied, fruity Sicilian red that beautifully complements the rich and robust flavours of the dish.
Give this truly Sicilian street food a go at home—you’ll be surprised how simple ingredients come together to create something wonderfully comforting and full of character. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, it’s a fantastic way to bring a little taste of Palermo’s streets right to your table. Dive in, savour every bite, and don’t forget to pass it on!
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