Among cuisines around the world, Italian food is one of the most loved. Now, it’s officially recognised by UNESCO as a cultural treasure, becoming the first national cuisine to earn this honour. Many people think Italian food is just pizza and pasta, but there’s so much more to explore. Scroll down to find out what you’ve been missing!
Italian Cuisine Receives UNESCO Recognition
Italian cuisine is loved worldwide for its fresh ingredients, simple techniques, and bold flavours. For many dishes, olive oil, tomatoes, and cheese are the base. Over centuries, Italian food has evolved, influenced by regional traditions, cultural exchanges, and even new ingredients from the Americas, like tomatoes and peppers.
UNESCO has now recognised Italian cuisine as a cultural treasure. According to The Free Press Journal, the best part is that it is the first national cuisine in the world to earn this honour. This recognition highlights Italy’s rich food traditions, different regional specialities, and how it has influenced food around the world.
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5 Must-Try Italian Dishes
1. Canederli
Canederli are traditional Alpine bread dumplings from northern Italy. Made with stale bread, eggs, milk, herbs, and diced speck, the mixture is shaped into balls and poached. Hearty and flavourful, Canederli are a classic comfort food that showcases rustic Italian cooking at its best.
2. Melanzane alla Parmigiana
This dish is a must-try in Italian cuisine, especially during cosy evenings. To prepare this dish, thinly slice aubergines and lightly fry or roast them. Layer the slices in a baking dish with tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and cheese. Repeat the layers, top with more cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly. Serve warm and enjoy!
3. Ossobuco alla milanese
Ossobuco alla Milanese is a classic Italian dish featuring slow-cooked veal shanks with a marrow bone in the centre. It’s cooked either with wine and herbs or a light tomato sauce and is traditionally served with saffron risotto, making it rich, flavourful, and comforting.
4. Focaccia di Recco
Focaccia di Recco col Formaggio is a delicious treat from Liguria. It’s made with two very thin layers of dough filled with fresh, creamy cheese and baked until golden, blistered, and gooey. Soft, cheesy, and warm, it’s perfect as a snack or appetiser.
5. Vitello Tonnato
Vitello Tonnato is an Italian dish from Piedmont featuring thinly sliced veal topped with a creamy sauce made of tuna, capers, and anchovies. Served as an appetiser or light main, it offers a unique blend of tender meat and tangy, savoury seafood flavours.
Which of these Italian dishes are you excited to try? Tell us in the comments below!
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