Italy By Food Enthusiasts · 5 min read

National Dish Italy: Caciocavallo Impiccato (Recipe)

Caciocavallo cheese melting over an open flame, served with crusty bread

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Meet Caciocavallo Impiccato, a gloriously simple slice of southern Italian theatre. The name translates roughly as “hanged cheese”, a nod to the way the cheese is traditionally suspended over an open flame until it turns molten and golden. Smoky, stretchy and utterly moreish, it is the kind of rustic dish that turns a gathering into an occasion. Scoop up the melting cheese with a hunk of warm ciabatta and you have one of the most satisfying bites in all of Italian cooking.

About Caciocavallo Impiccato

Caciocavallo Impiccato is a traditional Italian dish with its roots firmly in the south of the country. The name itself means something like “hanged cheese” and describes the very particular way the dish is prepared. In this method, whole forms of cheese are grilled over an open flame, producing an incomparable depth of flavour and aroma. The result is not only delicious but also a genuine showpiece on any table, melting slowly until it is ready to be served.

Ingredients (serves 1–2)

250 g caciocavallo cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh bread (such as ciabatta)
Pepper and seasonings of your choice
Fresh herbs (such as oregano or thyme)

Shopping for the ingredients

When shopping for the ingredients for caciocavallo impiccato, it pays to focus on the quality of the cheese. Look for a good Italian caciocavallo that offers a fresh, savoury flavour. The bread you choose should be high quality too, so it complements the cheese perfectly. Olive oil is another decisive component, so consider reaching for an extra-virgin oil to intensify the overall taste of the dish.

Preparing the dish

Preparing caciocavallo impiccato is quick and straightforward. Begin by cutting the cheese in half without slicing all the way through. This keeps the shape intact and allows the cheese to melt evenly as it heats. You can mix the oil and seasonings together at this stage so the flavours have a chance to develop fully during grilling.

Step-by-step instructions

Score the caciocavallo cheese crosswise in the centre and brush it with olive oil.
Sprinkle the cut surfaces with pepper and fresh herbs.
Place the cheese over an open flame or on a grill.
Grill the cheese for 10–15 minutes, until it has melted and taken on a golden colour.
Serve the melted cheese together with fresh bread.

Gluten-free / lactose-free version

For a gluten-free version of caciocavallo impiccato, simply serve gluten-free bread on the side so the dish suits anyone with a gluten intolerance. For a lactose-free option, try using a lactose-free cheese. Take care that the alternatives have a similar consistency and flavour so you preserve the authentic experience. That way the dish stays accessible to people with specific dietary needs without losing its character.

Tips for vegans and vegetarians

Although caciocavallo impiccato is a cheese speciality, there are still ways for vegans and vegetarians to enjoy it. One option is to use plant-based cheese alternatives that have good melting properties. Look for high-quality products made from nuts or soya for the best results. You can also experiment with other creative plant-based ingredients to achieve a similar flavour and texture, much as you would when adapting a Grilled Scamorza.

More tips and tricks

To get the most out of your caciocavallo impiccato, keep a few tips and tricks in mind. Avoid grilling the cheese over too fierce a heat to stop it from burning; a moderate flame is ideal. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create a flavour that is truly your own. Try varying the type of bread as well, to bring some welcome variety to the table and heighten the enjoyment.

Adapting the recipe to your taste

Caciocavallo impiccato is an extremely versatile dish that is easy to tailor to individual preferences. Add other ingredients such as chilli, nuts or sun-dried tomatoes to weave in different flavours. You can also switch up the herbs, whether fresh or dried, to give the dish a new twist. Experiment with the method of preparation so that every bite delivers a fresh experience.

Ingredient substitutions

If certain ingredients are not available to you, or you simply fancy a change, there are plenty of alternatives. Different cheeses such as provolone or mozzarella can offer a similar flavour experience, while grilling techniques can vary from an open grill to the frying pan, as in Mozzarella in Carrozza. Think about other types of bread too; a well-seasoned flatbread works very nicely here. Be creative and test what you like best.

Drink pairing ideas

To round off the experience of caciocavallo impiccato, the right drinks are essential. A fresh, fruity white wine or a lively rosé complements the aroma of the melted cheese beautifully. For those who prefer something alcohol-free, sparkling lemonades or home-made fruit juices make a refreshing accompaniment. Keep the drinks light and airy so they do not overpower the richness of the dish.

Serving and presentation ideas

Presentation can have a big influence on the whole caciocavallo impiccato experience. Use rustic crockery or wooden boards to create an authentic Italian atmosphere, much in the spirit of Crostini Toscani. Decorate the table with fresh herbs and olives, which double up nicely as a side to the cheese. Good presentation also involves the way the melted cheese is served — the more interactive, the more exciting.

A bit of history

Caciocavallo has a rich history that stretches back to antiquity. It hails from southern Italy and has been made using traditional methods for centuries. The distinctive hanging process not only contributes to its unique flavour but is also part of the region’s cultural heritage. At festivals and celebrations, caciocavallo impiccato is often a highlight that brings the community together — a true expression of Italian cuisine.

More recipe ideas

Summary: Caciocavallo Impiccato

Caciocavallo impiccato is more than just a dish; it is an experience that honours Italian cooking in a simple yet creative way. The melting cheese, paired with fresh bread and olive oil, makes it the perfect food for sociable evenings among friends and family. With the right preparation and well-chosen sides, this dish can bring joy to every palate. Let caciocavallo impiccato cast its spell on you, and give it a try for yourself!