bastoncini di mozzarella
The English phrase 'mozzarella sticks' is translated into Italian as bastoncini di mozzarella.
The term refers to deep-fried sticks of mozzarella cheese, which are typically served as an appetizer. In many modern Italian restaurants, particularly those that serve American-style or international cuisine, you may see the English term 'mozzarella sticks' used directly on the menu.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of bastoncini, which is the diminutive of bastone (stick) and means 'little sticks' and di mozzarella, meaning 'of mozzarella'.
Which one should you use?
While bastoncini di mozzarella is the standard translation, Striscette di mozzarella is an informal way to refer to them.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of the phrase is bastoncino di mozzarella.
Did you know?
- In Italy, the term bastoncini is most commonly used for fish sticks, bastoncini di pesce, making the term for cheese sticks a culinary borrowing from that format.
- The word mozzarella actually comes from the Italian verb mozzare, which means 'to cut off' or 'to sever'. This refers to the traditional way the cheese is made by pinching off pieces of the curd.
- Authentic mozzarella di bufala is protected by law in the EU, meaning any product calling itself this must follow strict production rules in specific Italian regions.
Examples in context
- Posso avere una porzione di bastoncini di mozzarella, per favore?Can I have a portion of mozzarella sticks, please?
- Vorrei ordinare i bastoncini di mozzarella.I would like to order the mozzarella sticks.
- Questi bastoncini di mozzarella sono molto buoni.These mozzarella sticks are very good.
- Hai assaggiato i bastoncini di mozzarella?Have you tasted the mozzarella sticks?
Example conversation
Martina and Francesco are choosing an appetizer at a restaurant.
- MartinaFrancesco, prendiamo dei bastoncini di mozzarella?Francesco, shall we get some mozzarella sticks?
- FrancescoSì, sono il mio antipasto preferito.Yes, they are my favorite appetizer.
- MartinaOttima idea, ordino subito i bastoncini di mozzarella.Great idea, I'll order the mozzarella sticks right away.
- FrancescoPerfetto, grazie Martina.Perfect, thanks Martina.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries di, mozzarella, CC BY-SA 4.0.
