'Tonnato' is a creamy Italian sauce made from canned tuna, mayonnaise, and a variety of other ingredients. It originated in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy, where it is traditionally served as a condiment or dressing for cold meat dishes.
The origins of tonnato can be traced back to the early 20th century, when it was likely developed as a way to utilize canned tuna, which was becoming more widely available at the time. The name 'tonnato' comes from the Italian word for tuna, 'tonno'.
The basic recipe for tonnato involves blending canned tuna, mayonnaise, lemon juice, capers, anchovies, and sometimes hard-boiled egg yolks into a smooth, creamy sauce. The tuna provides the primary flavor, while the mayonnaise gives the sauce a rich, velvety texture. The lemon juice adds acidity to balance the richness, and the capers and anchovies contribute a savory, briny note.
Tonnato is most commonly served as a condiment for cold roasted or grilled meats, such as veal, beef, or pork. It can also be used as a dressing for salads, or as a spread on bread or crackers. In the Piedmont region, tonnato is a traditional accompaniment to the classic dish of vitello tonnato, which features thinly sliced cold roasted veal topped with the creamy tuna sauce.
While the core ingredients of tonnato remain consistent, there are numerous regional and personal variations. Some recipes call for the addition of anchovies or capers for extra flavor, while others incorporate herbs like parsley or chives. Some cooks prefer to use oil-packed tuna for a richer texture, while others opt for water-packed tuna for a lighter, more delicate sauce.
Tonnato can be a versatile and flavorful addition to a variety of dishes. Its creamy, savory-sweet profile pairs well with a range of meats, seafood, and vegetables. It can be used as a dip, a spread, or a dressing, and its relative simplicity makes it a relatively easy sauce to prepare at home.
Whether served as a classic accompaniment to vitello tonnato or incorporated into a more contemporary dish, tonnato remains an integral part of the culinary heritage of the Piedmont region and a beloved Italian sauce that has found its way into kitchens around the world.