Authentic Frico Recipe Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy

Frico is a traditional Italian dish originating from Carnia, a region of Friuli Venezia-Giulia. It consists of potatoes, Montasio cheese, onions, olive oil, and salt, baked or fried until golden and crisp. This cheesy potato pancake is traditionally served as an appetizer and dates back to the 15th century, when it was invented out of necessity as a cucina povera dish, substantial enough for shepherds and woodcutters in the region. Although there are many variations on the dish, the simple and traditional version is most commonly served with polenta on the side as a main course, or on its own, cut into slices and served as an appetizer. Frico can also accompany fried eggs, scrambled eggs, or prosciutto. Besides frico morbido (frico di patate), there's also a version called frico croccante, made only with Montasio cheese fried in oil.