12 minutes | Friday, 25 July 2025
In this edition of the Dales Chef we are transported to Puglia in Southern Italy. Following the success of a recent Puglian dinner at Bruce's popular establisment, Elsworth at the Mill, it seemed sensible to feature Puglia as an episode of the Dales Chef.
Bruce Elsworth looks at the traditional rustic food of the region where nothing goes to waste and dishes are based on whats available and seasonal.
We talk through the menu from the evening, which featured traditional dishes from the region and wines to match.
We look at Puglian wine - the region is famous for its Primitivo reds and Verdeca whites. Puglia's Mediterranean climate and fertile land contribute to the rich, ripe fruit flavours and full-bodied character of its wines.
Did you know that almost half of Italy's durum wheat comes from Puglia? So that means half of all the pasta and bread eaten has Puglian wheat in it.
We finish with a chat about Puglia's famous Burrata cheese - Mozzarella and fresh cream - delicious!