The Pinsa: the oval that conquers the world with its simplicity

A roman speciality taking the world by storm, the pinsa was introduced in 2001 and today boasts a market value of €63 million, according to Niq-Nielsen data.

What are the characteristics of the pinsa that have made it famous?

Even its name provides a clue: pinsa originates from the Latin term "pinsere", meaning "to stretch, to flatten", actions which contribute to the dough's signature softness and crispy edges.

Unlike traditional pizza, pinsa is immediately identifiable by its oval shape, and upon tasting, it offers a new experience of crumbliness, fragrance, and digestibility thanks to a blend of wheat, rice, and soy flours, alongside olive oil.

But if you think that the Latin derivation also gives us some information about its historicity, you are very wrong! It has even been said that Virgil wrote about pinsa in the Aeneid, and that the current one is nothing more than a revisitation of a dish created by the ancient Romans. These stories, however, are an excellent storytelling created ad hoc around a recently invented product. The myth of pinsa as "gladiator food" demonstrates how effective marketing can endow modern products with a captivating narrative, elevating pinsa to an icon of taste.

In fact, this gastronomic revolution has extended to international markets, so much so that today there are 7,000 pinserie around the globe.

The versatility of this oval-shaped delight is endless: perfect for aperitifs, it can be sliced into chunks for tasty finger foods, perhaps topped with mortadella, burrata, and chopped pistachios, or with grilled courgettes, brie, and honey. Additionally, pinsa makes a refined choice for lunch or dinner when paired with sophisticated toppings.

Consider replacing traditional bread with pinsa, or serve it as an ideal vegetarian and vegan appetiser, sliced into strips with a bowl of hummus, or brushed with oil and salt before baking, topped with rosemary. 

And why not explore sweet and delightful recipes using pinsa with hazelnut cream, strawberries, and dark chocolate sauce?

In essence, any occasion is an opportunity to savour this focaccia-like dough: its lightness, crunchiness, and versatility turn every moment into a flavourful journey easily adaptable to any menu.

Pinsa will be your precious ally in your bar for quick and light lunches, refined aperitifs and tasty dinners!