A lunch full of dishes in honor of Saint Joseph

March 19 is a holiday date throughout Italy, partly for Saint Joseph and partly for Father’s Day. Whatever the occasion, it is always a good reason to indulge in a rich and tasty lunch.

Even more so if you are in Molise where, on this date, an ancient custom is celebrated in the homes of many municipalities. The holiday meal, in fact, follows precise rules and counts no less than thirteen courses, not one less, not one more!

The tradition dates back to the 1600s, and there are many who continue to carry it on. An altar is prepared in the home in honor of St. Joseph, but not only that. Two tables are made. At the first one three people take part to play the role of the Holy Family, thus depicting Mary, Saint Joseph and Jesus. At the second one everyone can participate, without permits or reservations, thanking the saint.

As there are many municipalities where this tradition takes place, the dishes vary slightly. Grosso modo they are legumes, also used to prepare “pezzente” and pasta with breadcrumbs as first courses. Main courses usually are: cod, mushrooms, asparagus, fish, rice, beans, olives, corn, turnips (vegetables of all kinds), sweetened orange salad and dried figs. At the end there are then the typical desserts, zeppole. Note the lack of meat.

Also linked to this holiday is a typical Riccia (CB) dessert, the calzone for Saint Joseph. A kind of curly puff pastry filled with chickpea cream, honey and cinnamon and fried.
A real treat for celebrating at its best!