Culinary Tuscany - what should you definitely try?

The cuisine in Tuscany is simple and goes back to rural traditions. It is important to use fresh ingredients that are appropriate to the season. Tuscany is located in central Italy and has a very varied landscape, important art treasures and beaches. The north is characterized by forest and pasture land, while the south is dominated by mountain and hill country. Grain is grown here and nature lovers will find exceptional flora and fauna. Near the coast and in the mountains around Chianti In addition to wine, olives and vegetables are also grown.

The most important foods in traditional Tuscan cuisine

This is the basis of Tuscan cuisine olive oil to see. Here you will find olive oil of outstanding quality, which together with various herbs gives the dishes a special aroma. Meat also plays an important role. On the menu you will find countless types of meat, which are prepared in a wide variety of ways. Grilled dishes are particularly popular in Tuscany. This tradition dates back to earlier times when the fireplace was still used for cooking.

On the coast, preference is given to fish. Livorno is known for the famous fish soup Caciucco. Out of of Tuscan cuisine The nutty Pecorino is indispensable. The ripening stage of the sheep's cheese is responsible for its taste. To each Eating in Tuscany The white, unsalted crusty bread is served, which is also an ingredient in various dishes. The Tuscan ham, which comes mainly from the Chianti region, can absolutely keep up with the ham from Parma. It only differs in that it is a little saltier and its taste is not as subtly sweet.

The specialties of Tuscany

A dish that is known beyond the borders of Tuscany is the bistecca alla Fiorentina. The bistecca is a special part of the beef that is seasoned with salt, pepper and lemon juice and cooked on the charcoal grill. The best bistecca comes from the Chianina breed. This valuable breed of cattle is bred in the Chiana and Arno valleys. Veal should not be missing on any menu, which is why you will also find ossobuchi, which are sliced ​​veal shanks, everywhere. The pulp of the middle long bone is valued as a delicacy. Involtini, stuffed veal rolls, are also a specialty of Tuscan cuisine. Pheasant dishes are a very special treat. The meat is served grilled, stuffed with apples and fried with ham and bacon. In autumn you should use chestnut dishes, such as chestnut soup or chestnut flatbread.

The right wine companion for the culinary delights

Traditionally, a meal in Tuscany usually consists of several courses, with the right wine being served. The most famous wine is certainly that Chianti, a red wine aged in oak barrels and sold in a distinctive demijohn. It goes well with red meat or pasta dishes. Also the places Montepulciano and Montalcino are known for their excellent wine. The Brunello di Montalcino is even considered the best red wine in Italy. At the end of a meal, people in Tuscany like to serve a grappa, as it is well suited for this due to its high alcohol content and low sugar content.