Bollito Piemontese, or Bollito Misto, is a classic dish from the Piedmont region of Italy. This comforting meal consists of a variety of boiled meats, served with flavorful sauces and accompaniments. Deeply rooted in Italian culinary tradition, Bollito Piemontese is a celebration of simplicity, high-quality ingredients, and bold flavors, making it a favorite for festive occasions and family gatherings.


What Is Bollito Piemontese?

Bollito Piemontese is a dish of slowly simmered meats, typically including beef, veal, pork, and sometimes chicken or sausage. The meats are cooked in a rich broth with aromatic vegetables and herbs, resulting in tender, flavorful cuts.

The dish is traditionally served with an array of salsine (sauces), the most famous being bagnet verd (a green parsley-based sauce) and bagnet ross (a tomato-based sauce). Other accompaniments include mustard, horseradish, or candied fruits for a sweet-and-savory contrast.


A Brief History of This Dish

Bollito Misto has royal origins, dating back to the 16th century in the court of Duke Emanuele Filiberto of Savoy, where it was served during lavish banquets. Over time, the dish spread to Piedmontese homes, becoming a staple of both aristocratic and peasant cuisines.

The dish symbolizes conviviality and abundance, often prepared for celebrations and special occasions, especially during the colder months. Today, it remains a hallmark of Piedmont’s rich culinary heritage.


How to Make Bollito Piemontese

Here’s how this iconic dish is prepared:

1. Choose the Meats:

Traditional Bollito Piemontese features a variety of cuts, such as:

Beef brisket or shoulder

Veal tongue

Pork cotechino (sausage)

Capon or hen

2. Prepare the Broth:

Fill a large pot with water and add onions, carrots, celery, cloves, and bay leaves.

Season with salt and bring to a gentle simmer.

3. Cook the Meats:

Add the meats to the simmering broth, starting with tougher cuts that require more cooking time.

Simmer gently until all the meats are tender, ensuring not to boil too vigorously to preserve the flavors.

4. Serve:

Slice the meats and arrange them on a platter.

Serve hot with sauces, boiled vegetables, and crusty bread.


Classic Sauces for Bollito Misto

The sauces are essential to the dish, enhancing the flavor of the boiled meats:

Bagnet Verd: Made with parsley, garlic, anchovies, capers, vinegar, and olive oil.

Bagnet Ross: A sweet-and-tangy tomato-based sauce with peppers and onions.

Horseradish Sauce: A creamy, spicy complement.

Mustard Fruits (Mostarda): Candied fruits in mustard syrup for a unique sweet-and-spicy twist.


Pairing Bollito Piemontese

To fully enjoy Bollito Piemontese, pair it with:

Wine: A robust red like Barbera d’Alba or Nebbiolo complements the rich meats and sauces.

Side Dishes: Boiled potatoes, polenta, or sautéed greens provide a hearty base.

Bread: Crusty Italian bread is perfect for mopping up the sauces.


Where to Find Ingredients for Bollito Piemontese

High-quality meats, fresh vegetables, and authentic Piedmontese sauces are key to this dish. Visit Bottega Italiana for premium ingredients to recreate Bollito Piemontese at home.


Why You’ll Love Bollito Misto

Bollito Misto is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of tradition and community. Its rich flavors, tender meats, and variety of accompaniments make it a dish to savor and share. Whether enjoyed at a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, Bollito Piemontese is sure to impress.

Have you tried Bollito Piemontese? Share your favorite sauces and pairings in the comments below!

Photo by choctaw_ridge, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons