Frico Friulano is a traditional dish from the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region in northeastern Italy, celebrated for its rich, cheesy flavor and delightful texture. Made with Montasio cheese and often paired with potatoes or onions, Frico can be crispy or soft, depending on the preparation. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main course, this rustic dish embodies the warmth and simplicity of Friulian cuisine.

A Dish Steeped in History

The origins of Frico date back to the 15th century, when it was created as a way to use leftover cheese rinds. Over time, it became a beloved staple of Friulian kitchens, with recipes passed down through generations. Today, Frico is a symbol of the region’s culinary identity, often served at family gatherings and festivals.

Two Styles of Frico

Crispy Frico: Made with grated Montasio cheese, cooked in a skillet until golden and crunchy.

Soft Frico: A heartier version that includes potatoes and sometimes onions, resulting in a soft, pancake-like texture.

    Both styles showcase the versatility of Montasio cheese and are equally delicious.

    How to Make Frico Friulano

    Ingredients (Serves 4):

    For Crispy Frico:

    200g Montasio cheese, aged and grated

    For Soft Frico:

    300g Montasio cheese, semi-aged or young, diced

    300g potatoes, peeled and grated

    1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)

    2 tbsp olive oil or butter

    Crispy Frico Recipe

    Heat the Skillet

    Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.

    Add the Cheese

    Spread a thin layer of grated Montasio evenly in the skillet. Cook until the cheese melts, bubbles, and turns golden brown.

    Flip and Finish

    Carefully flip the cheese disk with a spatula and cook the other side until crispy.

    Serve

    Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly before serving.

      Soft Frico Recipe

      Prepare the Base

      In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter. Sauté the onions (if using) until soft. Add the grated potatoes and cook until golden.

      Add the Cheese

      Stir in the diced Montasio cheese and mix well. Press the mixture into a flat pancake shape.

      Cook Until Golden

      Cook over medium heat until the bottom is golden and crispy. Flip carefully and cook the other side.

      Serve

      Slice and serve warm.

        Tips for Perfect Frico

        Use Montasio Cheese: Authentic Frico relies on this regional cheese, which melts beautifully.

        Non-Stick Pan: Essential for flipping and achieving the perfect texture.

        Serve Warm: Frico is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet.

          Pairing Suggestions

          Frico pairs wonderfully with Friulano wine, a dry white from the region. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with lemon to balance the richness of the cheese.

          Shop Authentic Ingredients

          Find everything you need for Frico Friulano at Bottega Italiana:

          Montasio Cheese in different ages for authentic flavor.

          Extra Virgin Olive Oil for a perfect cooking base.

          Friulian Wines to complete your meal.

          In Conclusion

          Frico Friulano is a true taste of Friuli-Venezia Giulia’s culinary heritage. Whether crispy or soft, this cheesy delight offers a comforting and flavorful experience that’s perfect for any occasion.

          Buon appetito!

          Photo by Dorothy61n1 at Italian Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons