Parmigiana Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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parmigiana
[ˌpɑːr.mɪˈdʒiː.nə ]
Definition
cuisine dish
Parmigiana refers to a style of cooking that usually involves layering various ingredients, most commonly eggplant or chicken, with cheese and tomato sauce. The dish is often baked until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly. While eggplant parmigiana is perhaps the most traditional version, chicken and veal also serve as popular alternatives. This dish is known for its savory and hearty flavors, making it a staple in Italian cuisine, particularly in Southern Italy.
Synonyms
eggplant parm, milanese, parmigiana di melanzane.
Examples of usage
- I ordered eggplant parmigiana for dinner.
- The chicken parmigiana was a bit too cheesy for my taste.
- She made a delicious homemade parmigiana for the family gathering.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Culinary Traditions
- This dish is commonly made with eggplant or chicken, but variations exist using vegetables like zucchini as well.
- Each region in Italy has its own version, showcasing local ingredients and cooking styles.
- Many Italian-American restaurants popularized this dish, transforming it into a staple in Italian cuisine abroad.
Pop Culture
- Parmigiana has appeared in various films and shows, often portrayed as a comforting, family-oriented dish.
- In the TV show 'Friends', one character humorously connects the dish with nostalgia and favorite meals.
- Celebrities have also shared their recipes and experiences with this dish, enhancing its popular status.
Health and Nutrition
- Parmigiana can be rich in calories due to frying and cheeses, but healthier versions substitute ingredients for baking.
- Rich in protein when prepared with chicken or eggplant, it can be balanced with a side of salad or vegetables.
- The dish also provides calcium from the cheese, vital for bone health.
Origin of 'parmigiana'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'parmigiana' comes from 'parmigiano', which means Parmesan cheese in Italian.
- Originally, the term referred to dishes made with Parmesan cheese, evolving to describe the layered preparation.
- Some believe it reflects the regions of Parma or Sicily where the dish was popularized.
The term 'parmigiana' originates from the Southern Italian region of Campania and specifically from the city of Parma, which is famous for its cheese, particularly Parmigiano-Reggiano. This cheese is crucial in creating the dish, providing richness and depth of flavor. The preparation style can be traced back to the culinary traditions of Southern Italy, where using vegetables and sauces with cheese was common. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, gaining popularity beyond Italy, particularly in Italian-American cuisine, where it has taken on variations such as chicken or veal parmigiana. This widespread adaptation has made parmigiana a beloved comfort food globally. Its evolution reflects the fusion of cultures, as Italian immigrants have introduced these recipes, allowing the dish to be embraced by diverse populations.