Italy Piadina
Piadina, a traditional Italian flatbread from the Emilia-Romagna region, is a simple yet versatile dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Originally a peasant food due to its humble ingredients, it has become a beloved part of Italian cuisine, often served stuffed with meat, cheese, or fresh vegetables. Piadina is cooked on a hot griddle or flat pan, giving it a slightly crisp yet tender texture. Its adaptability makes it suitable as a snack, bread, or light main course, depending on the fillings. Whether enjoyed plain or filled, piadina offers a delicious taste of Italian tradition.
Recipe Servings: 4
Prep Time
10 minutes
+ 30 minutes resting
+ 30 minutes resting
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
55 minutes
Vegetarian
Vegan
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Kosher
Halal
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp (5 ml) teaspoon salt
- ½ tsp (2 ml) baking powder (optional, for a slightly puffier texture)
- 2 Tbsp (30 g) lard or olive oil
- ½ cup (120 ml) water (or as needed)
- Stuffings such as prosciutto or porchetta, mozzarella, arugula, tomato, or Nutella
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder (if using).
- Add the lard or olive oil and rub it into the flour with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add water, mixing until a soft, pliable dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
- Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin round, approximately 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter and about ⅛ inch (3 mm) thick.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each piadina for 2–3 minutes on one side until bubbles form and golden spots appear. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes on the other side. Adjust the heat if needed to avoid burning.
- Serve piadine warm. They can be folded and stuffed with fillings such as prosciutto or porchetta, mozzarella, arugula, or tomato for a savory option, or with Nutella for a sweet treat.
Notes
- Store cooked piadine in a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and pliable until ready to serve.
- To reheat, warm them briefly in a skillet or microwave.
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