Five Florentine Foods
By Taylor Dosh
Every once in a while it’s a good idea to brush up on our culinary ABCS. Journalism student Taylor Dosh offers the shortlist of Florentine basics not not miss out on. From Blending Newsletter’s first issue of Spring 2013.
As you begin your time in the wonderful city of Firenze, you are probably in awe of all the food culture around you. The options can be overwhelming. While pizza, pasta, and gelato are all classic elements of Italian cuisine, I’m here to give you an inside scoop on the dishes known around Tuscany. These foods are a must try before you leave Florence. Here are five examples that will make your stay in Firenze even more enjoyable.
1. Tuscany is known for ribollita, which is a hearty porridge made with bread and vegetables. There are many variations but the main ingredients include leftover bread, cannellini beans, carrots, Tuscan black cabbage, onion, etc. Don’t be afraid to try things that may seem strange to you!
2. Pappa al pomodoro is a tomato and bread dish that’s a mix between a soup and porridge, similar to ribollita. It is best enjoyed on a cold rainy day.
3. It is almost impossible not to develop a sweet tooth while living in Firenze. Take a break from gelato and try schiacciata alla fiorentina, a Florentine sponge cake. It is sprinkled with icing sugar on top and can be filled with whipped cream, chocolate icing, chocolate cream, or any other sweet filing. Usually served during the Carnevale period.
4. Tuscany is known for its bread and olive oil. Make sure that you try a simple filone and extra virgin olive oil. While it’s a small snack, it will leave you satisfied and wanting more.
5. What’s a stay in Italy without pasta? Tuscany is famous for tortelli alla mugellana, which are ravioli-like parcels of pasta filled with potato stuffing. The potato can be flavored with cheese or a little meat and served with a hearty sauce.
I hope that you will take advantage of the wonderful foods that Firenze has to offer. These are just five out of numerous food finds. Don’t be afraid to venture out and enjoy all the different but delicious foods that Italy has to offer! Plus, when you order traditional dishes you will be seen as more of a local. It’s a win win deal. Buon appetito!