Tuscan cuisine
Tuscan cuisine is a traditional Italian cuisine that has been passed down for generations. It is based on high-quality, local products that are produced with love and care. Made with only natural ingredients, Tuscan dishes are one of the most healthy and tasty ones in the world.
Back to Etruscan times
Tuscan cuisine has ancient roots and is characterized by the use of simple, fresh ingredients. It is the product of rural Tuscan culture, in which farmers and shepherds lived off their land. The cuisine of Tuscany can be traced back to the Etruscans, whose diet was rich in grains, vegetables, fruits, and seafood. Since then, other cultures have influenced the culinary traditions of Tuscany, including the Greeks and Romans. By the Middle Ages, bread had become the staple food of most Tuscans and it still is today. Some Tuscan dishes are inspired by foreign cuisines, mainly French or Arabic since the region was under French rule for a long time. During the Renaissance period, cuisine in Florence became more sophisticated, while aesthetics and presentation of food became more important than ever.
Why is it special?
Italy is Mekka for foodies. The main characteristic of a typical Tuscan dish is simplicity and genuineness, as every dish is prepared with basic ingredients that are easy to find, even in other Italian regions. The most common products of Tuscany are olive oil, mushrooms, grapes, truffles and chestnuts. The abundance of seasonal vegetables, the taste of cereals and the fragrances of olive oil are some of the elements that make up a simple but tasty menu. A typical Tuscan menu features antipasti (appetizers) like crostini or bruschetta; a primo piatto (first course) such as ribollita or pappa al pomodoro; a secondo piatto (second course) of bistecca alla Fiorentina or arista; and dolce (dessert), often a simple fruit salad or ricciarelli cookies.
Wine in Tuscany
Tuscany is home to some of the world's most notable wine regions. Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano are primarily made with Sangiovese grapes whereas the Vernaccia grape is the basis of the white Vernaccia di San Gimignano. Tuscany is also known for the dessert wine Vin Santo, made from a variety of the region's grapes.
The best way to feel the taste of Tuscany is by visiting the finest region's restaurants. The combination of traditional Tuscan cuisine with renowned local wine will not be forgotten.
