This Italian baked good, often enjoyed during the Easter season, is a savory bread characterized by its rich ingredients and distinctive dome shape. It is frequently prepared with flour, eggs, cheese, and cured meats. The resulting product boasts a complex flavor profile and a hearty texture, making it a substantial addition to holiday meals. For example, a family might serve slices alongside other traditional Easter dishes such as hard-boiled eggs and roasted lamb.
Its cultural significance stems from its association with the end of Lent, a period of fasting and abstinence in the Christian tradition. The inclusion of ingredients previously forbidden during Lent, such as cheese and meat, symbolizes celebration and abundance. Historically, recipes have varied regionally, with each area contributing unique ingredients and preparation techniques, resulting in a wide array of variations enjoyed throughout Italy.
