If you have never traveled to Italy and are planning your first trip, there are so many sights, sounds and flavors to include on your itinerary. While your passion for the Americanized versions of Italian foods may be one of the driving forces in your desire to travel to Italy, hold on to your hat! The food in Italy will absolutely blow you away! The following is a list of what may very well be considered the foods that you cannot afford to miss while traveling this beautiful, diverse and exciting country.
Pizza– Yes, pizza. You will be amazed at the difference in the pizza you eat here in the States from that consumed in Italy. The crust is generally much thinner, and the toppings seem incredibly fresh and light. Another noticeable difference is that pizza is sold by weight in Italy. You place your order for the amount you wish to eat.
Arancini – These wonderful delicacies are made from rice, stuffed with meat sauce, mozzarella, peas, or other delectable morsels that are then dredged in bread crumbs and deep fried. Absolutely exquisite!
Burrata – It’s really hard to describe the uniqueness of Burrata. It’s a cross between a super creamy mozzarella and cream. The word “Burrata” means buttered in Italian and that is exactly what this cheese is all about. When first served Burrata you may think it is a ball of freshly made Mozzarella, however, as you cut into it, the contents form a thick and creamy river of rich and delicious goodness. Slather it on simple bread, eat it plain or mix it into a salad or pasta dish. It is very versatile and incredibly delicious.
Carbonara – There is something magical that happens in Italy when eggs, Parmigiano-Reggiano, guanciale (or other pork product such as bacon) and peas are brought together is a luxuriously creamy sauce and mixed with fresh pasta. Believe it or not, despite its’ smooth, velvety texture, there is no cream in authentic carbonara.
Affogato – In Italian, the word “affogato” means drowned. As a dessert, Affogato is a scoop of vanilla gelato that is “drowned” in fresh, hot espresso. In some versions the flavor of the gelato may be changed and in other versions, the liqueur Amaretto is sometimes added. Some truly decadent versions include a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream. However you choose to drink it, you must have it. Then, you must have it again, and again!
If a trip to Italy is not in the cards for you right now, then visit Christini’s, one of the best Italian restaurants Orlando, for a taste of truly authentic northern Italian cuisine right here in Orlando!