Italy, the heart of the Mediterranean, is one of the world’s richest countries, not only in terms of its history and art but also its centuries-old culinary culture. Although pizza or pasta immediately come to mind when Italian cuisine is mentioned, authentic Italian flavors have a much deeper and more sophisticated history.
In this article, we focus on Italy’s most iconic main course, which reflects its soul, its most famous, palate-delighting dessert, and the best street food delicacy that is a staple of its streets.
Here is Italy’s gourmet trio: Osso Buco, Tiramisu, and Suppli.
1. The King of the Main Course: Osso Buco
If you want to feel the weight and mastery of Italian cuisine, you should turn your route to Milan. Osso Buco literally means “hollow bone,” and this name comes from the marrow-filled bone at the center of the veal shank, which is the dish’s main ingredient.
- What is it? A type of stew made by slowly braising floured veal shanks with white wine, vegetables, and broth for hours over low heat.
- How is it Eaten? It is typically served with saffron-infused “Risotto alla Milanese.” The most crucial part of the dish is spooning out the marrow inside the bone; this ritual is the peak of the flavor experience.
- Why is it Special? The Gremolata—a mixture of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley sprinkled on top—adds incredible freshness to the dish.
2. The Master of Desserts: Tiramisu
Although imitations are made all over the world, nothing compares to an authentic Italian Tiramisu. This dessert, whose name literally means “pull me up” (or figuratively, “cheer me up”), lives up to its name.
- What is it? The layering of a silky cream—prepared with Mascarpone cheese, egg yolks, and sugar—with ladyfinger biscuits (Savoiardi) dipped in espresso.
- The Trick: Authentic Tiramisu does not use cream; its consistency comes from the egg and cheese. The cocoa sprinkled on top balances the sweetness with a slight bitterness.
- History: Originating near the city of Treviso near Venice, this dessert is the biggest export product of modern Italian cuisine.
3. The Secret Star of the Streets: Suppli
The source of that fried delicacy smell when you walk the streets of Rome is likely Suppli (or by its full name, Supplì al telefono). Although similar to Sicily’s Arancini, it has its own distinct character.
- What is it? Cooked rice mixed with tomato sauce (usually ground meat/ragu sauce) is rolled into a ball with a piece of mozzarella cheese inside, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried.
- Why “Telephone”? When you break the fried ball in half, the melted mozzarella cheese stretches out, looking like a cable between the two halves. It is called “Supplì al telefono” because this image resembles old telephone wires.
The Flavor Experience: This delicacy, crispy on the outside and soft, flowing with cheese on the inside, is the peak of grab-and-go snacks in Italy.
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