Bastia's Local Cuisine: Delightful Dishes, Restaurants, and Recipes

Bastia's Local Cuisine: Delightful Dishes, Restaurants, and Recipes

Bastia, a charming coastal city in Corsica, France, is not only known for its picturesque views and rich history but also for its delectable local cuisine. Influenced by its Mediterranean location and French heritage, Bastia offers a wide array of dishes that are sure to please any food lover. From fresh seafood to traditional Corsican specialties, here's a guide to the delightful cuisine that Bastia has to offer.

Seafood Galore

Being a coastal city, Bastia is renowned for its stellar seafood. Locals and visitors can enjoy an abundance of freshly caught fish, shellfish, and crustaceans. One popular dish is "Calamars Farcis," which features stuffed squid with breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices. Another must-try is "Bourride," a fish stew made with various Mediterranean fish, garlic, saffron, and aioli. Seafood lovers will be in culinary heaven in Bastia.

Traditional Corsican Delights

Corsican cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition and local ingredients. The island's unique gastronomy reflects its rugged landscape and cultural influences. In Bastia, you can savor traditional Corsican dishes such as "Figatellu," a cured pork sausage seasoned with spices and herbs, typically served grilled or pan-fried. Another iconic dish is "Civet de Sanglier," a slow-cooked wild boar stew that showcases the island's game meat.

Local Restaurants

When visiting Bastia, be sure to explore the city's local restaurants, where you can indulge in the flavors of the region. Here are three highly recommended establishments:

1. La Table de Bastia: Located in the heart of the city, La Table de Bastia offers a cozy ambiance and a menu that highlights the freshest local ingredients. From seafood platters to Corsican charcuterie, this restaurant celebrates the best of Bastia's cuisine.
2. L'Auberge du Colombier: Nestled in a charming countryside setting, L'Auberge du Colombier serves authentic Corsican dishes with a modern twist. Their creative menu features delicacies like wild boar ravioli and citrus-marinated sea bass.
3. Le Petit Zinc: This family-run restaurant is a hidden gem in Bastia. With a focus on traditional Corsican cuisine, Le Petit Zinc offers homestyle dishes made with love. Don't miss their "Carciofi in Bellavista," a delicious artichoke and tomato gratin.

Traditional Corsican Recipes

If you want to bring the flavors of Bastia's local cuisine into your own kitchen, here are two traditional Corsican recipes for you to try:

Recipe 1: Stufatu

Ingredients:

• 1 kg of beef or pork, cut into chunks
• 2 onions, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup of red wine
• 2 sprigs of rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté the onions and garlic until golden.
2. Add the meat, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the carrots and tomatoes, followed by the red wine.
4. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Add the rosemary and bay leaves.
5. Cover the pot and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread or polenta.

Recipe 2: Brocciu Cheesecake

Ingredients:

• 250g of brocciu cheese (Corsican sheep or goat cheese)
• 100g of granulated sugar
• 4 eggs
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon of flour
• 1 shot of Corsican liqueur (such as Patrimonio Muscat)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, combine the brocciu cheese, sugar, lemon zest, flour, Corsican liqueur, and salt. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
4. Gradually add the beaten eggs to the brocciu mixture, stirring constantly.
5. Pour the mixture into the greased cake pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for approximately 45 minutes or until the cheesecake is set and slightly golden.
7. Allow the cheesecake to cool before serving.

Bring a taste of Bastia into your home with these authentic recipes.