Taste the Real Italy

Italian food has permeated much of the world, with pizza and pasta being prominent features in many countries’ culinary capitals. However, with more and more people from across the globe adopting Italian flavours into their own foodie vocabularies, the cuisine has evolved, expanding on the traditional fare that the world fell in love with.

So, if you want a traditional taste of Italy, forget about cappuccinos after breakfast and lunch comprised of a few hurried bites, and take a trip around this Mediterranean gift to civilization and experience a true taste of Italy.

The different regions of Italy have their own unique dishes, as well as different eating customs that have developed through the ages since the fall of the Roman Empire. North and South In the northern reaches of Italy, you will find heartier dishes. Stuffed meats, rich sauces, and polenta are very popular, and butter is always favoured over olive oil. Here, the terrain is mountainous, and the people rely on the land for their ingredients. Because of its close proximity to Switzerland, Austria, and France, you will find influences of these European neighbours on your plate – rich butter sauces tell of French influence, while breaded veal cutlets bear testament to Austria. Cattle and dairy farming are huge in the north of Italy, so salami, prosciutto, and other salted meats are northern Italian delicacies. Then there’s one of the greatest exports of the country: parmesan cheese.

Northern must-haves include: risotto alla Milanese with its golden saffron hue