Michetta

Michetta is a traditional white bread characterized by its round and bulbous shape, hard crust, and an airy, slightly hollow texture of the interior. It is believed that michetta was invented in Lombardy during the period of the Austrian rule. At the time, the officials who were located in Lombardy brought with them traditional Austrian dishes, including Kaisersemmel—a crusty round bread roll. The bread proved to be too soft and rubbery for the locals, who then tried to create a similar roll with a slightly hollow center which would remain crispy for longer. The name michetta, which initially meant crumb, is believed to stem from micca, a local term that was once used for Kaisersemmel. The bread is best served fresh, and it is typically filled and enjoyed as a sandwich. It can be paired with anything from pesto and mozzarella to prosciutto. Versions of michetta are sometimes referred to as bignè, rosetta, or stellina. In 2007, michetta was officially granted a municipal designation of origin which categorized it as a traditional gastronomic item of the region.