Pezzetti di cavallo

Pezzetti di cavallo, translated as pieces of horse meat, is a traditional dish that uses horse meat as the star ingredient. The meat is primarily seared before it is doused in a flavorful tomato-based sauce that is enriched with carrots, celery, olive oil, bay leaves, and chili peppers, which are the essential elements used to balance the sweetness of horse meat. The dish is traditionally prepared in terracotta pans, and it is slowly simmered until the meat is thoroughly cooked and the sauce achieves a thick consistency. Pezzetti di cavallo is usually associated with the region of Apulia, where it is a common main course that is often accompanied by slices of country-style bread on the side.