Regional Italian Pasta Dishes You Must Try this World Pasta Day

It's World Pasta Day on 25th October, so we thought that this feature would be a good follow-up to our recent post on World Pasta Day.

Italy is a culinary paradise, with each region boasting its own unique pasta dishes that reflect local flavours, ingredients, and traditions. From the sunny south to the rolling hills of Tuscany, the variety of pasta dishes is astounding.

 Here’s a guide to some of the most iconic regional pasta dishes that you simply must try when visiting Italy or dining at a proper Italian restaurant.

1. Pesto alla Genovese – Liguria

Liguria, in the north-west of Italy, is famous for its vibrant green sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmigiano Reggiano, and extra virgin olive oil. Traditionally served with trofie or trenette pasta, Pesto alla Genovese is a perfect representation of Ligurian cuisine, showcasing the simple yet fragrant flavours of the Mediterranean.

2. Tagliatelle al Ragù – Emilia-Romagna

Often misunderstood as spaghetti Bolognese, this dish is the pride of Bologna. The region of Emilia-Romagna is home to tagliatelle al ragù, a rich and slow-cooked meat sauce made with minced beef, pork, vegetables, wine, and tomatoes, served over wide ribbons of fresh egg pasta. The depth of flavour in this dish is unmatched, making it a must-try for lovers of hearty Italian fare.

3. Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa – Puglia

In the southern region of Puglia, orecchiette, meaning “little ears”, is a beloved pasta shape that pairs perfectly with cime di rapa (turnip greens). This dish is simple yet flavourful, combining the slightly bitter greens with garlic, chilli, and anchovies. It's a wonderful example of how Puglian cuisine relies on fresh, local produce to create bold and satisfying flavours.

4. Spaghetti alla Carbonara – Lazio

Rome's culinary contribution to the world would not be complete without spaghetti alla carbonara. Made with just a handful of ingredients—guanciale (cured pork cheek), pecorino Romano, eggs, and black pepper—this dish is creamy, indulgent, and utterly delicious. The key to a perfect carbonara lies in creating a smooth, velvety sauce without using cream, which is achieved by skilfully combining the egg and cheese mixture with hot pasta.

5. Trofie al Pesto – Liguria

Another Ligurian speciality, trofie al pesto is made with the short, twisted trofie pasta, which clings beautifully to the fresh basil pesto sauce. Often served with green beans and potatoes, this dish is a celebration of the region's fresh produce and Mediterranean flavours.

6. Pappardelle al Cinghiale – Tuscany

Tuscany is known for its rustic, countryside cuisine, and pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar ragu) is a perfect example. Thick ribbons of pappardelle pasta are coated in a slow-cooked sauce made from wild boar, red wine, tomatoes, and herbs. This hearty dish is a favourite during the cooler months and a great way to experience Tuscany's deep-rooted culinary traditions.

7. Cacio e Pepe – Lazio

Simple yet intensely flavourful, cacio e pepe is a Roman classic made with just three ingredients: pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta. Typically served with tonnarelli or spaghetti, this dish relies on the starchy pasta water to create a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. It's a must-try for anyone who loves bold, cheesy flavours.

8. Fettuccine al Tartufo – Umbria

The region of Umbria is famous for its truffles, and one of the most luxurious pasta dishes you can try here is fettuccine al tartufo. This dish is made with freshly shaved black or white truffles, butter, and sometimes a touch of cream. The rich, earthy aroma of truffles infuses the pasta, making it a decadent treat that is often reserved for special occasions.

9. Bigoli in Salsa – Veneto

A traditional Venetian dish, bigoli in salsa is made with thick, long pasta called bigoli, which is typically served with a sauce made from anchovies, onions, and olive oil. It’s a humble yet flavour-packed dish that reflects the region’s love of seafood and simple, wholesome ingredients.

10. Malloreddus alla Campidanese – Sardinia

Sardinia’s most famous pasta dish, malloreddus, also known as Sardinian gnocchi, is a small, ridged pasta often served with a hearty sausage and tomato sauce, flavoured with saffron. This dish has a distinctively rich and comforting flavour, and it’s a great way to experience the unique culinary traditions of the island.

Final Thoughts

Italian pasta dishes are as diverse as the regions they come from, with each area offering its own interpretation of pasta based on local ingredients and traditions. Whether you’re drawn to the simple elegance of cacio e pepe or the rich, gamey flavours of pappardelle al cinghiale, exploring regional Italian pasta dishes is a journey through the heart of Italy’s culinary heritage.

Next time you're cooking or dining out, make sure to seek out one of these classic regional pasta dishes—you won't be disappointed!

Our World Pasta Day post:- https://thatsfoodanddrink.blogspot.com/2024/10/celebrate-world-pasta-day-dining-out-or.html

Explore the World Via the Iconic Foods of Different Countries

Murgh Makhani

Exploring the world through its culinary delights is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience different cultures. Each country has its own iconic dishes that tell a story of its history, geography, and traditions. 

Let's embark on a gastronomic journey across the globe and discover some of the most iconic foods from various countries.

1. United Kingdom: Fish and Chips

Fish and chips is a quintessential British dish, deeply rooted in the nation's culinary heritage. This classic comfort food consists of battered and deep-fried fish, typically cod or haddock, served with thick-cut chips (French fries). Traditionally, it's accompanied by mushy peas, tartare sauce, and a generous sprinkling of salt and vinegar. The dish dates back to the 19th century and remains a firm favourite among Brits and visitors alike.

2. Italy: Pizza Margherita

Italy is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, and pizza Margherita is one of its most iconic offerings. Originating from Naples, this simple yet delicious pizza features a thin, crispy crust topped with fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves, representing the colours of the Italian flag. This dish epitomises the beauty of Italian cooking – using high-quality, fresh ingredients to create a flavourful masterpiece.

3. Japan: Sushi

Sushi, a delicate and artful Japanese dish, has captured the hearts of food lovers worldwide. It consists of vinegared rice paired with various ingredients, such as raw fish, seafood, vegetables, and occasionally tropical fruits. Sushi is often served with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi. The skill involved in making sushi, along with its emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients, makes it a true representation of Japanese culinary excellence.

4. India: Butter Chicken

Butter chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is a beloved dish from India that has gained international acclaim. This rich and creamy curry features tender chicken pieces cooked in a spiced tomato sauce enriched with butter and cream. It's typically enjoyed with naan bread or steamed rice. Butter chicken exemplifies the complex and aromatic flavours that are characteristic of Indian cuisine.

5. France: Croissant

The croissant, a buttery and flaky pastry, is a symbol of French baking prowess. Originating from Austria but perfected in France, the croissant is made from layered dough that is meticulously folded and rolled to create its signature airy texture. Often enjoyed with a cup of coffee, this pastry is a staple of French breakfasts and embodies the country's dedication to the art of patisserie.

Tacos

6. Mexico: Tacos

Tacos are a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, celebrated for their versatility and vibrant flavours. A traditional taco consists of a small corn or wheat tortilla filled with a variety of ingredients, such as grilled meats, beans, cheese, and fresh vegetables. They're typically garnished with salsa, guacamole, and lime. Tacos offer a delightful blend of textures and tastes, reflecting Mexico's rich culinary heritage.

7. China: Peking Duck

Peking duck is an iconic dish from China, known for its crispy skin and succulent meat. The duck is seasoned, air-dried, and roasted to perfection, resulting in a mouth-watering combination of flavours and textures. It's traditionally served with thin pancakes, spring onions, and hoisin sauce. Peking duck is a testament to the meticulous cooking techniques and rich culinary traditions of Chinese cuisine.

8. Thailand: Pad Thai

Pad Thai is a globally recognised Thai dish that balances sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavours. This stir-fried noodle dish features rice noodles, eggs, tofu or shrimp, peanuts, bean sprouts, and lime. It's often seasoned with tamarind paste, fish sauce, and chilli. Pad Thai is a perfect example of the harmonious flavour profiles that define Thai cuisine.

9. Greece: Moussaka

Moussaka is a classic Greek dish that showcases layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce, baked to golden perfection. Often made with lamb or beef, moussaka is a hearty and comforting meal, reflecting Greece's culinary traditions and Mediterranean influences. The dish is typically flavoured with cinnamon, nutmeg, and oregano, adding a unique and aromatic dimension to its taste.

10. Brazil: Feijoada

Feijoada is a hearty Brazilian stew made with black beans, pork, and beef, traditionally served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices. This dish has its roots in Portuguese cuisine but has been embraced and adapted by Brazilians, becoming a national favourite. Feijoada is often enjoyed as a communal meal, reflecting the importance of family and social gatherings in Brazilian culture.

11) USA: Hamburger

When one thinks of quintessential American cuisine, the hamburger inevitably comes to mind. This simple yet versatile dish has become a symbol of American culture and culinary innovation, embodying the spirit of convenience, diversity, and indulgence. The origins of the hamburger are often debated, but its rise to fame is undoubtedly tied to the American fast-food industry. In the early 20th century, establishments like White Castle and later McDonald's popularised the hamburger, making it a staple of American diets. A classic hamburger consists of a ground beef patty, grilled or fried, sandwiched between two halves of a bun. It is typically garnished with lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, cheese, ketchup, and mustard, though regional variations and personal preferences lead to a myriad of topping combinations.

Poutine

12) Canada: Poutine 

Poutine, a dish that perfectly captures the essence of Canadian cuisine, is widely regarded as the most iconic food of Canada. Originating from the province of Quebec in the late 1950s, poutine has grown from a regional speciality to a national symbol, celebrated for its hearty, comforting qualities and unique flavour profile. At its core, poutine consists of three simple ingredients: crispy French fries, fresh cheese curds, and rich brown gravy. The magic of poutine lies in the combination of these components. The fries provide a crunchy base, the cheese curds offer a squeaky texture and mild taste, and the hot gravy melds everything together into a deliciously indulgent dish. This harmonious blend of textures and flavours is what makes poutine so beloved.

Conclusion

From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the cosy cafes of Paris, each country's iconic dish offers a delicious glimpse into its culture and traditions. These culinary treasures not only satisfy our taste buds but also connect us to the rich histories and diverse peoples of the world. So, next time you travel, be sure to indulge in the local cuisine – it's one of the best ways to experience the heart and soul of a place. Bon appétit!

We'll be looking to write more on global cuisines in the future, so please look out for these posts.

Your Mum's special. So gift her a special wine, Feudi di San Gregorio's Cutizzi

As we approach Mother's Day, it's time to start thinking about what to gift Mum on her special day. 

Although it's sometimes difficult to choose a present which reflects your mum's brilliance, Feudi di San Gregorio's Cutizzi, a refreshing and smooth white wine from Southern Italy, is guaranteed to put a smile on any mum's face.

Both the bottle and label for Cutizzi were designed by the late Massimo Vignelli, the celebrated Modernist Italian designer. Its sleek and striking design serves as a graphic translation of the winery's identity: innovative, elegant and timeless.

An obvious gift for any art enthusiast, each bottle of Cutizzi is a testament to Feudi di San Gregorio's core belief that every bottle of wine is a work of art in itself. Just like a mother figure, this exquisite bottle pays a fitting tribute to a mother's impeccable taste.

Allow a glass of Cutizzi to transport her to Italy through its deliciously spicy and floral aromas of vanilla, almonds, and orange blossom. The wines of Feudi di San Gregorio allow one to explore what the beautifully mountainous Italian region of Irpinia has to offer.

The Cutizzi is a thoughtful and sustainable choice for those who champion a greener lifestyle as the multi-award-winning wine producer, Feudi di San Gregorio is firmly committed to their sustainable practices, for which they were awarded their B-Corp certification in 2022.

This wine is perfect for Mums in search of la dolce vita, transporting her to Italy through just one sip. Feudi di San Gregorio's Cutizzi is ideal to pair with a light starter for Mothering Sunday lunch, such as smoked salmon or mozzarella.

You can buy it for her at Vinissimus for £23 https://www.vinissimus.co.uk/en/wine/feudi-di-san-gregorio-greco-di-tufo-cutizzi

L'italiano è la lingua dell'amore, or (Italian is the language of love, with Tenuta Marmorelle

Just look at this fantastic and incredibly romantic Italian Dinner for Two gift set!

It's a real winner on many different levels. Not only will it make a wonderful romantic Valentine's Day gift, but it’s also a much more affordable way of enjoying an authentic, romantic Italian meal this Valentine's Day. And throughout the rest of the year, too, for that matter!

And to quote a good friend of ours "I don’t know about you, but if someone cooks for me, it’s simply the BEST!"

Priced at a remarkable reasonably £29.95, (I had to check the price to be honest!) the ‘Food is the Language of Love’ gift set, curated by the wonderful Italian artisans at Tenuta Marmorelle, contains:

500ml Tomato and Basil Pasta Sauce

500g Heart shape 5 coloured pasta

750ml Rose wine from Puglia Southern Italy

250g Gourmet Taralli Cheese and Pepper 

214ml Bella di Cerignola Green Olives

150g Italian Cream Sicilian Cannoli  

 

To make your purchases please visit https://www.tenutamarmorelle.com

Riso Gallo

If you like good Risotto rice, then you will absolutely adore Riso Gallo risotto rice which has been providing high quality, very tasty risotto rice since 1856.

They are guaranteed to be 100% Italian and of the best quality available.

What types of risotto rice are available? Risotto with Porcini Mushrooms, Risotto with Saffron, Risotto with Tomato and Basil and Risotto and Vegetables in their 1856 range.

They all come in easy to store 250 gramme bags and have easy to follow cooking instructions and are absolutely delicious and make excellent accompaniments with vegetables and meats.  

These products will be excellent additions to your store cupboard and are wonderful to serve up with Italian meals.

To learn more, to find helpful advice, learn some fantastic recipes and to buy online visit them at https://www.risogallo.co.uk.

Incidentally, my favourite is the Porcini Mushrooms variety, but they are all really good rice dishes.

Cocchi? Coo! Celebrates All Things Negroni This September with Cocchi

The classic Italian aperitif's popularity has burgeoned over recent years as wise consumers in the UK and also beyond are continuing to discover more about Italy's vibrant and diverse drinking culture.

Tying in with celebrations that will take place next month in September, cocktail devotees will be able to enjoy a range of Cocchi-based Negronis for a few weeks with each venue presenting their own twist on the classic. Showcasing the versatility of this drink.

Available all through the month of September, The Zetter Townhouse in London's Marylebone will offer guests a negroni menu of three Cocchi-based drinks. On Sunday 17 September an exclusive takeover will also take place at the venue.  

Alex Palumbo, co-owner of award-winning Edinburgh bar, Hey Palu, will take part in a one night only guest shift, serving a curated menu of four Cocchi Negronis to mark the launch of Negroni week.

The takeover menu cocktail menu will include:

Strawberry Sbagliato: Cocchi Rosa, strawberries, Barsol pisco, aperitivo, prosecco

Mezcaloni - Cocchi Storico Vermouth di Torino, Los Siete Misterios mezcal, bitter, aromatic lime leaf

Negroni Minerale - Cocchi Americano, Botyard Double Gin, Fino Sherry, celery extracts, green olive

Caffe 'Serale - Cocchi Dopo Teatro, Lot 40 rye whisky, banana, bitter, coffee aromas

Cocchi is also partnering with famous Sri Lankan restaurant Hoppers King's Cross to offer their take on a Negroni-led menu. Following rom its successful summer terrace cocktail activation, Hoppers' bar manager Martin Balo has put together a menu of three Negronis with a tropical spin, ideal to enjoy before the end of the summer.

 Hopper's King's Cross menu will include:

Kokova Negroni: cocoa and orange spiced rum – Campari – Cocchi Rosa

White Negroni: gin – lemongrass and fennel bitters – Cocchi Americano

Negroni Sbagliato: Cocchi Storico Vermouth di Torino – pomelo Campari – Prosecco

Finally, if you would like to make a Negroni at home, here's Cocchi's recommended recipe:

25 ml Cocchi Storico Vermouth di Torino

25 ml gin (we recommend Boatyard Double Gin)

25 ml Campari

Method: Add all of the ingredients into a stirring glass with an ample amount of ice and stir for about 30 seconds. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice cubes.

To attend Sunday 17 September takeover (19:00 – 22:00), book a table on The Zetter Townhouse Marylebone, website: https://thezetter.com/townhouse-marylebone/ - Zetter Townhouse Marylebone 28-30 Seymour St, London W1H 7JB

For reservation at Hoppers King's Cross, 4 Pancras Sq, London N1C 4AG please use: https://www.hopperslondon.com/kings-cross/

Cocchi Storico Vermouth di Torino is available nationwide including Waitrose and Amazon. RRP: £26.71 (70 cl)

A Taste of Italy feature

Starting today, throughout Summer 2023, That's Food and Drink is running a special A Taste of Italy feature.

That's Food and Drink will be covering foods from Italy, wines, liquors, beers, lagers, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, etc.

There will be features on olive oils, pasta, breads, main meals, deserts and much more besides. 

Also, That's Food and Drink will be carrying recipes from some top Italian chefs. In fact, we have already carried some from Seggiano as you will be able to see.

If you would like to participate in the feature (and we never charge) please email us at afj_uk@yahoo.com and let us know what you would like us to promote. 

(Image courtesy of AndreZan from Pixabay)

Filippo Berio's First Pasta Sauce Range Brings Effortless Italian Inspiration to your kitchen

There's some great news for keen cooks who want a bit of help in replicating authentic Italian dishes at home. 

Because Filippo Berio, the UK's favourite and best loved olive oil brand for well in excess of 40 years, has launched four delicious and authentic pasta sauces to to the UK market.

Filippo Berio has used the finest all-natural ingredients including (of course!) its very own Extra Virgin Olive Oil and naturally sweet Italian tomatoes to create four delicious recipes; Basilico, Arrabbiata, Verdure Grigliate and Olive.

The sauces are also gluten free and are suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets. They are also lactose free and are totally free of preservatives, flavourings or artificial ingredients.

The new sauces are:

Basilico - Fragrant Italian Basil has been added to naturally sweet Italian tomatoes and carefully cooked to create this delicious tomato and basil pasta sauce.

Arrabbiata - with a touch of chilli spiciness, this pasta sauce is an Italian classic - delicious tomatoes with just the right amount of heat.

Olive - This unique sauce uses specially selected ripe olives for an added depth of flavour.

Verdure Grigliate - Packed with flavour and using grilled vegetables like aubergines, peppers and courgette – this sauce brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen.

Filippo Berio UKs MD, Walter Zanré, said: “When we make our pasta sauces we cook the vegetables before the tomatoes are added. Not at the same time. This two stage cooking method locks in all the flavour so our sauces taste fresh - just like with homemade.”

Available now and priced at £2.50 for a 340g glass jar, you can purchase the sauces from Tesco or via the Filippo Berio online shop.

Want a romantic foodie night in? Ristorante Pizza is what you need!

With Valentine’s Day reminding us that the only way to spend an evening is with those you love, now is the time to avoid the cold, get cosy and enjoy a Ristorante pizza together.

Indulge in ‘Italy’s Best Loved Pizza’ and fall in love with the delicious thin and crispy base. Plus, as we all know, opposites attract there are six different flavours, including Mozzarella, Speciale, Pollo, Funghi, Hawaii, and Pepperoni Salame, meaning there is a taste for everyone.

What could be more romantic than spending an evening indoors, hiding from the cold and experiencing a taste of Italy? Spoil your partner this Valentine’s Day with a satisfying Ristorante pizza. With a cooking time of only ten minutes from frozen, the rest of the evening can be spent gazing into each others eyes – that’s amore!

Ristorante is available from ASDA, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Morrisons, The Co-op and Waitrose expect to pay about £2.79.