Bagna Cauda

Looking for the perfect dip for your vegetable harvest? Frances Schultz shares a classic Italian recipe from her book CALIFORNIA COOKING AND SOUTHERN STYLE (Skyhorse, 2019)
A silver dish of bagna cauda on a platter of sliced colorful sweet peppers, tomatoes, assorted breads for dipping, and grapes
Seasonal vegetables and crusty bread are ideal for dunking in Bagna Cauda. Photo: CALIFORNIA COOKING AND SOUTHERN STYLE by Frances Schultz (Skyhorse, 2019)

Bagna Cauda means “hot bath” in Italian, though I first encountered this warm, luscious anchovy-butter-garlic-infused dip in the south of France. It is traditionally served as an hors d’oeuvre or first course, with cooked or raw vegetables and a good, crusty bread. Set aside fears of anchovies as they are completely dissolved into the olive oil leaving only their rich, briny deliciousness. Refrigerated leftovers will keep for weeks.

Bagna Cauda

Serves 6

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 12 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (3.5-ounce) jar anchovies
  • 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter

Instructions

Warm the olive oil, garlic, anchovies, and red chili flakes in a small pot over very low heat, for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally and mashing the anchovies until they dissolve. Make sure the garlic does not brown and become bitter. Whisk in the butter and serve warm.

California Cooking and Southern Style: 100 Great Recipes, Inspired Menus, and Gorgeous Table Settings by Frances Schultz (Skyhorse, 2019)

Excerpt from California Cooking and Southern Style: 100 Great Recipes, Inspired Menus, and Gorgeous Table Settings by Frances Schultz (Skyhorse, 2019). Signed copies available at francesschultz.com

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