Frogs

Frogs in the food traditions of the Ferrara area

In Italy, the two most appreciated types of frogs in the kitchen are the green frog (Rana esculenta) and the common frog (Rana temporaria).

During the Middle Ages, it became quite popular in Italy and France to eat frogs: a poor yet lean and nourishing food, which could be easily found in the lagoons and water courses.

Until a few years ago, in the countryside near Ferrara, the "ranari" used to wander in search of these animals during the night. The following day, fried, boiled, marinated or salted frogs were prepared.

Nowadays, frogs are an expensive and quite unusual food, which is most likely found at traditional restaurants.