Panforte

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Panforte is a traditional Italian dessert containing fruits and nuts, and resembling fruitcake or Lebkuchen. It may date back to 13th century Siena, in Italy's Tuscany region. Panforte (pahn-FOR-teh) is an incredible confection that originated in the Siena region of Italy and dates back to the Medieval period. Documents from 1205 show that Panforte was paid to the monks and nuns of a local monastery as a tax or tithe which was due on the seventh of February that year. Literally, Panforte means "strong bread" which actually refers to the spicy flavor! The original name of Panforte was "panpepato" which means pepper bread due to the strong pepper used in the cake. There are references to the Crusaders carrying Panforte, a durable confection, with them on their quests. Currently there are many shops in Italy producing Panforte, each recipe being their jealously guarded interpretation of the original confection and packaged in distinctive wrapping. One of the joys of Panforte is the small amount of the confection which gives so much pleasure. Usually a small wedge is served with coffee or a dessert wine after a meal. I know of some who enjoy it with their tea or espresso for breakfast!