Tigelle, pronounced /tiˈdʒɛlɛ/, is an Italian bread that is typically small, round, and hollow in the center. The word derives from the Latin word "tegula," which means "tile," because the bread is cooked on a tile or iron griddle. The pronunciation of the word is marked by the soft "g" sound, which is similar to the "j" sound in the English language. The double "l" in the spelling of the word indicates that the "l" sound is prolonged when pronounced.
Tigelle is a type of traditional Italian bread that originates from the region of Emilia-Romagna. It is a small, round, and disc-like bread that is commonly enjoyed as a snack or a base for sandwiches. The dough for tigelle is typically made from a combination of flour, water, yeast, and a pinch of salt. However, variations of the recipe may include the addition of other ingredients such as olive oil or lard for added flavor and richness.
The preparation of tigelle involves using a special cooking device known as a "testo" or a "tigelliera." This is a device made of cast iron or terracotta with a hinged top and two round cavities. The dough for tigelle is placed in these cavities, and the device is then heated over a stove or an open fire. Once the bread is cooked, it develops a golden brown crust on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside.
Traditionally, tigelle is served hot and split open to create a pocket-like shape that can be filled with various ingredients. Common fillings include cured meats like salami or prosciutto, cheese, or spreadable condiments like Nutella or jam. Tigelle are often enjoyed as a street food or as part of a traditional Italian antipasto. The bread has a slightly tangy flavor and a unique texture, making it a beloved choice among locals and tourists alike.
Overall, tigelle is a versatile and delicious bread that offers a taste of traditional Italian cuisine, especially in the region of Emilia-Romagna.
The word "tigelle" has its roots in the Italian language, specifically in the Emilian dialect. The origins of the term date back to the region of Emilia-Romagna in Northern Italy, where these round, small bread-like discs are a traditional food.
The etymology of "tigelle" can be traced to the Latin word "tigellum", which refers to a small earthenware plate or tile used for cooking. The Latin term itself comes from the Greek word "tegea", meaning "roof tile" or "wattling". The similarity between the shape and size of the tigelle and these small tiles likely influenced the naming of this regional specialty.
The tigelle are cooked using a specific cooking device called "tigelliera", which consists of two cast iron plates with round molds.