Ricotta Cheesecake (Cassola)

This ricotta cheesecake was likely introduced to Rome by Sephardi Jews who fled Sicily during the Spanish Inquisition. The dish was originally cooked in a pan set on the stovetop, like a frittata or oversized pancake. Over time, a baked version (also called channà) emerged and became a favourite of both Jewish and non-Jewish Romans. Today, baked Cassola is a popular Christmas dessert amongst the city’s Catholic community. Roman Jews, meanwhile, enjoy it on Shavuot, when dairy dishes