History and tradition of pa amb oli, the authentic flavour of Majorcan cuisine
Pa amb oli: Mallorca's typical dish, perfect for a break during your motorbike trip
Literally, ‘pa amb oli’ means bread with oil, and for Mallorca it is one of the most representative and typical dishes of its culture, as well as the ideal choice for a break during a tour on one of our Ducatis.
We can define it as an authentic alternative to the more ‘commercial’ hamburger, but no less tasty and delicious.
We can define it as an authentic alternative to the more ‘commercial’ hamburger, but no less tasty and delicious.
The first historical reference to pa amb oli is documented in the 17th century in the text written by the Majorcan friar Jaime Josep Bernat Martí i Oliver, “Modo de cuynar a la mallorquina”. A slice of bread, oil and nothing else: this was the original pa amb oli, which over the centuries has evolved to become a gourmet dish served in many restaurants.
In the past, it was the typical “snack” eaten by farmers working in the fields who, for obvious reasons, needed food that was practical but also energy-giving and satisfying, and above all made with what the land had to offer.
Bread was baked once a week and was often hard. Oil, which has always been a typical product in Majorca as well as a commodity for trade, was spread on the slice of bread to restore its softness.
Only later did pa amb oli evolve; the slice of bread drizzled with oil is rubbed with a particular variety of tomato, the “tomate ramallet”, and other ingredients are added, including Mahones cheese, jamon, sobrassada, trampò (a mix of chopped raw vegetables), anchovies, etc., and whatever else is available in the pantry.
Pa amb oli is much more than just a dish; it is a true distillation of history, and you can enjoy it in many bars and restaurants across the island.
If you want to try making it yourself, the main ingredients are as follows:
Unsalted country bread (brown- moreno or white)
High-quality extra virgin olive oil
Ramallet tomatoes to rub on the surface of the bread
Salt
Other ingredients including Mahones cheese, jamón serrano, sobrasada, tuna, anchovies or other cured meats.
PA AMB OLI: perfect for making your "Ducati Experience in Mallorca" even more enjoyable.
