Giardiniera: Where Did It Come From?
Perhaps you've seen it served on a Chicago dog, or maybe you get the option to top your Italian beef sandwich with it. Either way, it tastes great and you're curious about its origin. It is Giardiniera: chopped and pickled vegetables that instantly remind you of Italian-American restaurants. Also known as 'Chicago's Condiment' in many circumstances, Giardiniera has two different styles. Italian style is the kind that's pickled in vinegar. Chicago-style is the same combination of vegetables, but after it is pickled in vinegar, it is marinated in olive oil. When consumed in Chicago, Giardiniera is considered a condiment. However, the Italian-style iteration of this medley of pickled vegetables is often served as a side to many meals. So, how exactly did Giardiniera originate, and more interestingly, why has it become so popular? The Origin of Giardiniera As evidenced in the name and its proper pronunciation ("jar-dih-nair-ah"), this delectable main cours...
