Recipes of traditional Trentino first courses

Trentino, a region in Northern Italy, is known for its stunning landscapes and rich culinary heritage. The cuisine of Trentino is deeply rooted in tradition and reflects the history and culture of the region. One of the highlights of Trentino’s gastronomy is its first courses, which are hearty and full of flavors. In this article, we will explore some of the most beloved recipes of traditional Trentino first courses that are sure to delight your taste buds.

1. Canederli – Canederli, also known as Knödel in German, are delicious dumplings made with leftover bread. They are perfect for using stale bread and transforming it into a mouthwatering dish. The bread is mixed with milk and eggs, flavored with herbs such as parsley or chives, and then formed into small balls. These dumplings are then boiled in salted water until they are cooked through. Canederli can be served in various ways, such as in a rich broth or topped with melted butter and grated cheese.

2. Polenta – Polenta is a staple in Trentino’s cuisine and is made from finely ground cornmeal. It is often served as a side dish or as a base for various toppings. One popular traditional dish is Polenta Carbonera, which is made by cooking polenta with lard, garlic, and grated cheese until it becomes creamy and delicious. Another famous dish is Polenta e Osei, where the polenta is shaped into a cake and served with a rich sauce made from bird meat.

3. Canderli Soup – Canderli Soup is a heartwarming soup made with broth and canederli. The broth is typically made with meat, such as beef or chicken, and simmered with vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. The canederli are added to the broth and cooked until they are soft and tender. This soup is commonly enjoyed during the colder months in Trentino and is a comforting and satisfying dish.

4. Tagliatelle with Mushrooms – Trentino is known for its diverse mushrooms, and tagliatelle with mushrooms is a classic dish that showcases their flavors. Fresh tagliatelle pasta is cooked until al dente and then tossed with a sauce made from sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are usually wild varieties that are abundant in the region, such as porcini or chanterelles. This simple yet savory dish is a must-try for mushroom lovers.

5. Spätzle with Speck – Spätzle is a type of soft egg noodle that is commonly found in Trentino. It is typically made by mixing flour, eggs, and water to form a thick batter that is then pushed through a special noodle press directly into boiling water. Once cooked, the spätzle is tossed with crispy cubes of speck, a cured ham similar to bacon. This combination of tender noodles and smoky speck creates a delightful harmony of flavors.

These are just a few examples of the delicious first courses that Trentino has to offer. The region’s culinary traditions and use of local ingredients make its cuisine unique and worth exploring. Whether you try the comforting canederli soup or the delicate spätzle with speck, dining on Trentino’s traditional first courses will transport you to a land of rich flavors and warm hospitality.