If you’re planning on visiting Arezzo, don’t forget to taste the local cuisine. Here are some of the typical dishes that you should definitely try:
1. La Ribollita
La Ribollita is a hearty soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This soup is made with bread, beans, and seasonal vegetables, such as cabbage, carrots, and kale. It’s cooked slowly, allowing the flavors to blend together beautifully. This soup is often served with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of parmigiano cheese.
2. Pici alla Toscana
Pici is a type of pasta that’s traditional to Tuscany. This pasta is thick and chewy, and has a slightly irregular shape, as it’s rolled and shaped by hand. Pici alla Toscana is a simple dish that features this pasta, served with a garlic and tomato sauce that’s flavored with fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano.
3. Bistecca alla Fiorentina
Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a classic Tuscan dish that’s popular throughout the region. This dish features a massive T-bone steak, grilled over an open flame until it’s cooked to perfection. The steak is seasoned with just a little bit of salt and pepper, allowing the flavor of the high-quality beef to shine through.
4. Crostini di Fegato
Crostini di Fegato is a popular appetizer in Tuscany. This dish consists of crusty bread that’s topped with a spread made from chicken liver, capers, anchovies, and herbs. The spread is rich and savory, and pairs perfectly with a glass of local Chianti wine.
5. Cacciucco
Cacciucco is a flavorful seafood stew that’s popular in the coastal towns of Tuscany. This stew is made with a variety of fish and seafood, such as squid, octopus, clams, and mussels. The stew is seasoned with garlic, tomatoes, and spicy red pepper flakes, and served with crusty bread for dipping.
6. Lampredotto
Lampredotto is a must-try dish for adventurous foodies. This dish is made from the fourth stomach of a cow, cooked until it’s tender and then served on a crusty roll. It’s often seasoned with a spicy tomato sauce, and topped with fresh herbs and cheese. Lampredotto is a popular street food in Tuscany, so be sure to try it from a local vendor.
In summary, Arezzo has a lot to offer food-wise. From hearty soups and handmade pastas to seafood stews and unique meat dishes, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region. So, when in Arezzo, don’t hesitate to indulge in the local cuisine, and discover new flavors that you will always remember.