A Taste of Corsica and Sardinia: Exploring the Culinary Heritage
Corsica (France) and Sardinia (Italy), two islands in the Mediterranean Sea, share a rich culinary history influenced by their unique geography, their history of conquest and cultural exchange, and their abundant local ingredients. Both islands boast a cuisine characterized by fresh, seasonal produce, flavorful herbs, rustic preparations, and a strong emphasis on seafood and hearty, satisfying dishes. Bastia's new menus capture the essence of this culinary heritage, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to Philadelphia.
Breakfast: A Mediterranean Start to the Day
Bastia's breakfast menu (available Monday-Friday, 8am-11am) offers a refreshing departure from typical American fare. Guests can start their day with a Labneh Parfait, showcasing the creamy tang of citrus labneh (a strained yogurt cheese popular in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine) paired with clementine preserve, orange, and a crunchy walnut dukkah (an Egyptian spice blend). The Ratatouille Tartine, featuring the classic Provençal vegetable stew topped with pecorino sardo (a Sardinian sheep's milk cheese) and marjoram, provides a savory and satisfying option. The Corsican Breakfast is a hearty platter with Toulouse sausage (a French sausage often flavored with wine), stewed lentils, sun-dried tomatoes, and grilled semolina toast, reflecting the rustic flavors of the islands.
Lunch: Rustic Elegance and Bold Flavors
The lunch menu (Monday-Friday, 11am-2pm) continues the Mediterranean theme with flavorful sandwiches and salads. The Roman Goddess Sandwich elevates the classic chicken cutlet with baby lacinato kale and an herb dressing, while the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich gets a Corsican twist with broccoli rabe, long hot salsa verde, and fiore sardo (another Sardinian sheep's milk cheese). The Chopped Salad showcases fresh, vibrant ingredients like baby gem lettuce, Bulgarian feta, pepperoncini, and sun-dried tomatoes, highlighting the Mediterranean emphasis on fresh produce.
Brunch: A Weekend Mediterranean Feast
Weekends at Bastia (Saturday-Sunday, 10am-2pm) are a celebration of Mediterranean flavors with a dedicated brunch menu. Salt-Baked Beets with Calabrian chili and marcona almonds offer a unique blend of sweet, spicy, and earthy notes. The Seared Tomino cheese with honey and quince showcases a classic Italian cheese preparation. The Roasted Mushroom Tartine incorporates house sausage, pistachio, and fennel pollen, reflecting the rustic and aromatic flavors of Corsican and Sardinian cuisine. The Fregola, a Sardinian pasta similar to couscous, is paired with grilled baby artichokes and persimmon, highlighting seasonal ingredients. Finally, the Swordfish brochette with walnut pesto and citrus labneh exemplifies the coastal influence on the cuisine.
Ingredient Spotlight: Highlighting the Mediterranean Pantry
Bastia's menus are notable for their use of authentic ingredients that evoke the flavors of Corsica and Sardinia:
- Labneh: A strained yogurt cheese, offering a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Pecorino Sardo and Fiore Sardo: Sheep's milk cheeses from Sardinia, adding a salty, savory depth.
- Guanciale: Italian cured pork cheek, adding richness and umami.
- Long Hot Salsa Verde: A spicy condiment, likely incorporating long hot peppers, a staple in Southern Italian cuisine.
- Fregola: A unique Sardinian pasta, providing a hearty base for flavorful dishes.
- Dukkah: Adds a crunch and nutty, aromatic spice to several dishes.
- Calabrian Chili: These are staples in Southern Italian Cooking.
- Venere Black Rice: This rice originated in China, but is now grown in Italy.
Bastia's expansion into daytime dining brings a welcome dose of Mediterranean sunshine to Philadelphia's culinary scene. The new breakfast, lunch, and brunch menus are a carefully curated exploration of Corsican and Sardinian flavors, showcasing fresh ingredients, traditional techniques, and a commitment to authenticity. Whether you're seeking a light and refreshing breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a leisurely weekend brunch, Bastia offers a unique and delicious culinary journey to the heart of the Mediterranean.
