Saying that Italy is the homeland for good food is stating the obvious. Perhaps, a part of the peninsula you are not very familiar with is the centre of the boot. There is not only Florence and Tuscany there, with its impressive culinary tradition. Other regions in the same area have a tremendous amount of local dishes and produces to offer. Here is a brief overview.
Emilia-Romagna
Emilia Romagna is considered the most epicurean region of Italy: home of many varieties of pork-based salami, tortelli, the (too often badly imitated) Parmesan and the aceto balsamico di Modena (balsamic vinegar). And other types of salami like Parma raw ham, Bologna’s mortadella, a spicy salami from Felino, culatello di Zibello.
Tuscany (Toscana)
One of the most famous regions in Italy, and another great destination for all epicures. Tuscan cuisine is the epitome of simplicity and high-quality ingredients. The list comprises of: a world-famous olive oil, sausages made from Cinta Senese pigs, lardo di colonnaia bacon, and Chianina beef from Maremma. And of course, the wines, the list could be endless, but here there is only room for two: Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
Umbria
You probably never heard of this region, but you heard of black truffles and Norcia sausages, which come from there. If you are seriously into Italian food, then you probably know about Castelluccio lentils, Colfiorito potatoes and green, cold-pressed olive oil. The most famous wines are Orvieto and Sangrantino di Montefalco. If you’re planning a visit to this part of Italy, do it in October, when the Eurochocolate festival takes place in Perugia.
The Marche
The Marche region has the Adriatic sea on one side, and the Apennines on the other. No wonder then, that in its cuisine the best products of land and sea come together: Acqualagna truffles, Fabriano sausage and ham. Local Ascolana Ternera olive trees yeld particularly large and flavourful fruit. Three wines above all: Rosso Cornero, Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi, and Lacrima di Morro.
If all this list of delicacies made you feel like cooking something Italian, here are two recipes you may try: stuffed zucchini, and an Italian fruit tart. Buon Appetito!