Cavatelli is a traditional Molise pasta shaped like small shells. It's often served with a rich pork ragu made from slow-cooked pork, tomatoes, and red wine, providing a hearty and comforting dish. ¹⁾

A spicy pork dish, pampanella is made by slow-cooking pork loin that has been rubbed with garlic, paprika, and chili. It’s cooked until tender and served as a flavorful main course, especially at festivals. ²⁾

A delicious dish made from salt cod (baccalà), which is baked with breadcrumbs, raisins, pine nuts, and olive oil. This unique combination of flavors results in a savory-sweet dish that reflects Molise's creative use of simple ingredients. ³⁾

Scamorza, a type of smoked cheese, is often grilled in Molise and served with a drizzle of olive oil and herbs. The cheese becomes melty and soft, with a deliciously smoky flavor. ⁴⁾

A hearty pasta and bean soup made with sagne (a type of hand-cut, wide ribbon pasta) and borlotti beans. The dish is flavored with tomato sauce, garlic, and herbs, making it a comforting winter meal. ⁵⁾

Cicatelli is another typical pasta from Molise, often served with sautéed broccoli rabe and sausage. The bitterness of the broccoli and the richness of the sausage make for a balanced and delicious dish. ⁶⁾

A traditional shepherd's dish, pezzata is made with lamb that is slow-cooked with potatoes, onions, and herbs in a broth. It's a rustic dish that celebrates Molise's pastoral heritage. ⁷⁾

Known as “dumb pizza,” this yeast-free flatbread is made from flour, water, white wine, and olive oil. It’s typically baked in a wood-fired oven and served with cured meats, cheese, or vegetables. ⁸⁾

Fusilli, a spiral-shaped pasta, is commonly served with a sauce made from tomatoes, peppers, and pork or lamb, and sometimes garnished with grated pecorino cheese. ⁹⁾

Taccozze are large squares of homemade pasta, often served with beans in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This is another humble yet delicious dish that reflects the region’s simple, agricultural roots. ¹⁰⁾

Polenta (a dish made from cornmeal) is popular in Molise, especially in colder months. It's typically served with a hearty pork ragu, sausages, or cheese, making it a filling and warming meal. ¹¹⁾

Known as “escaped birds,” this dish is actually made with thin slices of pork or veal rolled around a filling of cheese and herbs, then cooked in a rich tomato and white wine sauce. The name refers to the bird-like shape of the rolls. ¹²⁾

This cornbread pizza is made with cornmeal, and instead of traditional toppings, it’s often flavored with wild herbs, garlic, and olive oil. It's a rustic dish that showcases the simplicity of Molise's cuisine. ¹³⁾

A rich fish soup from the coastal town of Termoli, made with a variety of Adriatic seafood such as monkfish, squid, shrimp, and mussels, simmered in a tomato-based broth with garlic, wine, and herbs. ¹⁴⁾

A typical dessert from Molise, this crostata is made with a base of shortcrust pastry and filled with ricotta or fruit jam, often cherry or apricot. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to end a meal. ¹⁵⁾