How I discovered “Spaghetti all’Assassina”
While searching for new ideas and inspirations, one day I came across a recipe for “Spaghetti all’Assassina” (or “Assassin Spaghetti”), a recipe that was pretty unique and caught my attention right away. Spaghetti all’Assassina is a dish that hails from Bari in southern Italy and it has a fascinating history.
The name “Spaghetti all’Assassina” comes from the dish’s “fiery” look and intense flavour that develops during preparation. The spaghetti are cooked in a rich, spicy sauce that, through a special roasting technique, has a unique “crunchy” texture with every bite. It’s said that the dish was created in a small trattoria in Bari, where the chefs decided to let the sauce “burn” just a bit, creating a perfect blend of spicy, smoky, and savoury flavours. The name ‘assassina’ doesn’t just refer to the heat of the chilli, but also celebrates the local tradition that food is at the heart of the region’s vibrant culture.
When I first saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn in by its history and bold flavours. It felt like a bit of an experiment, but I was excited to give it a go. I thought it would be a great idea to put it on the menu at my restaurant, so my customers can try this authentic, one-of-a-kind dish. I’m proud to say we were the first restaurant in Austin, TX to serve Spaghetti all’Assassina. The dish was a huge hit and gave us a chance to show off some of Puglia’s best-kept culinary secrets. Now, when customers order Spaghetti all’Assassina, they’re not just enjoying an iconic dish – they’re also experiencing a story of passion, tradition, and innovation that links Bari and Italy to Austin.
