When visiting Assisi, nestled in the heart of Italy’s Umbria region, you’re not only stepping into a world of rich history and spiritual significance but also into a culinary landscape that’s as soulful and rustic as the town itself. Umbrian cuisine is known for its simple yet flavorful dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Here are seven traditional dishes you absolutely must try when in Assisi to truly experience the essence of Umbrian gastronomy.
1. Strangozzi al Tartufo
Strangozzi is a type of pasta similar to thick spaghetti, and in Umbria, it’s often served with black truffles. These truffles are locally sourced and add a luxurious, earthy flavor to the dish. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese might be all it takes to elevate this dish to perfection.
2. Porchetta Umbra
This slow-roasted pork dish is a staple in Umbrian cuisine and a must-try in Assisi. The pork is seasoned with garlic, rosemary, fennel, and other herbs before being roasted to crispy perfection on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. Porchetta Umbra is often served in slices as a main dish or used as a filling for sandwiches.
3. Lenticchie di Castelluccio con Salsicce
The lentils from Castelluccio are renowned for their unique flavor and are a protected geographical indication (PGI) product. These tiny, flavorful lentils are typically served with local sausages, creating a hearty and comforting dish that perfectly showcases the region’s agricultural bounty.
4. Rocciata di Assisi
Rocciata di Assisi is a traditional dessert reminiscent of strudel, filled with nuts, fruit, and spices, then rolled and baked until golden. Its origins are ancient, and it’s a testament to the simplicity and richness of Umbrian sweets. Enjoying a slice of rocciata with a glass of Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine, is the perfect way to end a meal in Assisi.
5. Torta al Testo
Torta al Testo is a type of flatbread cooked on a cast iron pan (testo), similar to a griddle. It’s typically filled with greens, sausages, or cheeses. This bread is a rustic and delicious snack or side dish that complements the robust flavors of Umbrian cuisine.
6. Pecorino Umbro
Umbria’s rich pastures produce excellent sheep’s milk, which in turn is used to make Pecorino Umbro, a hard, savory cheese. It can be enjoyed on its own, as part of a cheese board, or grated over pasta dishes. Each variant, from fresh to aged, offers a different taste experience.
7. Umbrian Truffle Cheese
While not a dish in itself, Umbrian truffle cheese is an experience not to be missed. Local cheeses infused with black truffles combine the sharpness of the cheese with the distinctive, earthy aroma of truffles. It’s perfect for a snack, as part of an antipasti platter, or simply enjoyed with a slice of crusty bread.
Dining in Assisi offers a taste of Umbria’s deep-rooted culinary traditions, where every dish tells a story of the land, its history, and its people. These seven dishes are just the beginning of a gastronomic journey that is sure to delight and inspire.
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