Italian foods that aren’t pizza or pasta.
Warning: The following blog may cause extreme hunger and need for Italian food. Reader discretion is advised.
Does even mentioning pizza or pasta give your tummy the gurgles? As delicious as they are, we’re here to tell you that there’s so much more to Italian cuisine than spaghetti and a classic pepperoni pizza.
Italians are known for their vibrant cultures and for being perhaps the biggest food lovers in the world. Every family believes their Nonna’s recipes are the best and they will stop at nothing to prove themselves right.
But the origin for the Italian’s love of food has a long history, dating back to the fall of the Roman Empire. Individual cities began to curate their own identities and traditions, and with it, came various unique ways of cooking.
Whilst Northern Italy embraces the land and is well known for their cattle, cheeses and butter that form the foundation for any good Italian recipe. Most of us are probably more familiar with Southern Italy cuisine which is the birthplace of pizza. That’s Amore!
The South’s warm climate is also home to various fresh herbs and vegetables like tomatoes, peppers and eggplants. Which if you think about it, these colours are reflected in their national flag, coincidence? 🤔
But the good thing about this food war between North and South Italy is that there are zero losers. Because the more food the better! If you’re interested in discovering more Italian foods that will make you say mamma mia, maybe give these dishes a try next time you’re about to order Italian. Or better yet, you can travel to Florence to learn the art of Italian cooking from a true masterchef. Don’t worry, you won’t be called an idiot sandwich under any circumstances. 👩🍳
Parmigiana di Melanzane - A deliciously fried eggplant (or aubergine for the Europeans) that’s dressed with tomato sauce and parmesan cheese. Think of a classic lasagna but even better!
Cacciucco - Northern Tuscany’s representative dish! Enjoy a blend of fish and seafood cooked with tomato and various spices. Pair with a perfectly toasted Tuscan bread for the ultimate food coma.
Chicken Cacciatora - Literally translating to ‘hunter-style’, pieces of chicken thigh are baked in an aromatic tomato sauce for an easy but delicious meal. The best recipes are often the most simple!
Arancini - Risotto rice, cheese and breadcrumbs make for a texture that will send shivers down your spine.
Osso Buco alla Milanese - Designed in the fashion capital, this Milanese dish features veal shanks slowly braised in a mix of white wine and garlic. The meat is so tender you can eat it with only a fork.
That’s just the tip of the iceberg for the wonder that is Italian cuisine. The only way to discover more is to travel across Italy and taste test every dish possible. It’s tough work, but somebody’s gotta do it. 🙋♀️