Elevated Snacks · Italian
Bagna Cauda
Bagna cauda is a communal Italian dish of warm garlic, anchovies, and olive oil. It is intended for dipping fresh vegetables and encourages shared conversation.
Why This Works
The gentle infusion of garlic and anchovies into fat creates an umami-rich emulsion that highlights the natural sweetness of raw vegetables. By maintaining a low, consistent heat, the ingredients marry without the harsh bitterness that occurs if the garlic or oil is scorched.
The Upgrade
Use premium olive oil
Chef's Secret
Michelin TechniqueUse only Sicilian anchovies for a more pronounced, delicious flavor in your bagna cauda.
Ingredients
Total time including resting: 15 min
Directions
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the crushed garlic, anchovy fillets, and unsalted butter.
5 minStir the mixture gently as the anchovies dissolve completely into the butter and garlic base, ensuring the heat remains low to prevent burning.
5 minSlowly whisk in the extra-virgin olive oil, maintaining a gentle warmth without allowing the mixture to reach a boil.
5 minSimmer the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a fragrant and velvety consistency.
5 minTransfer the prepared sauce into a fondue pot or heatproof dish, serving immediately alongside the fresh vegetable sticks.
Wine Pairing
Nebbiolo
Red Wine
The BottleG.D. Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo
The high acidity and firm tannins of a young Nebbiolo provide the necessary structure to cut through the heavy oil and anchovy intensity of the dipping sauce.
Nutrition per Serving
290
calories
8g
protein
4g
carbs
28g
fat
Make It a Complete Meal
Sides the kitchen recommends alongside this dish.
Member Reviews
How did it turn out?
Rate this recipe
Tasty and easy. Mine wasn't as photogenic but the flavor was there.
The timing on the steps was spot on. Came out perfect on the first try.
My new go-to. Even my picky kids cleaned their plates.
Great recipe — took about 10 minutes longer than listed but worth it.
Perfect Italian flavors. Flawless on the first try.
Turned out great — took me a little longer than listed but totally worth it.
Followed the recipe exactly and it came out perfect. The chef's secret tip is a game changer.