Umbria is famous for many things, not least its delicious cuisine. However, people often overlook the dishes from Umbria in favour of food from other Italian regions. You are missing a trick if you do not try some of the mouthwatering and unique Umbrian dishes. Here is an overview of Umbrian cuisine, its typical ingredients, and some of the region’s most popular dishes.
Where Is Umbria?
It is a landlocked Italian region. Surrounding regions include Tuscany, Marche, and Lazio.
For What Is Umbria Famous?
Umbria is famous for its rich history, art, and culture. It is also known for its beautiful landscapes, rolling hills, and medieval architecture. Umbria is often called the “Green Heart of Italy” because of its lush vegetation and verdant countryside. The region is famous for producing high-quality wines, olive oil, truffles, and cured meats. Additionally, Umbria is home to many notable artists, including Perugino, Pinturicchio, and Raphael, who all left their mark on the region’s art and architecture.
What Are the Typical Ingredients People Use in Umbrian Cuisine?
Simplicity and heartiness characterise Umbrian cuisine. It showcases the region’s fresh, local ingredients. Here are some of the typical ingredients used in Umbrian cuisine:
- Olive oil: Umbria is famous for its high-quality extra-virgin olive oil, which people use in many dishes and for simple dressings.
- Truffles: The region is famous for its black and white truffles. The Umbrians use them to flavour many dishes, including pasta, risotto, and meat dishes.
- Legumes: Umbrians love their beans, especially lentils and chickpeas, which people use in soups, stews, and salads.
- Meats: Pork is a staple in Umbrian cuisine, and people use it in many dishes and food products, including sausages, salami, and roasted meats.
- Cheese: Umbria produces a variety of delicious cheeses, including pecorino and ricotta.
- Herbs: Umbrian cuisine relies heavily on fresh herbs, such as rosemary, sage, and thyme, to add flavour to dishes.
These are just a few examples of the many ingredients in Umbrian cuisine.
Examples of Popular Dishes in Umbrian Cuisine
Simple, rustic dishes highlighting the region’s fresh, local ingredients characterise Umbrian food. Here are some examples of famous dishes from Umbria:
- Pasta alla Norcina: This dish features homemade pasta tossed with a rich sauce made from sausage, cream, and grated pecorino cheese.
- Strangozzi al Tartufo: A classic Umbrian pasta dish made with long, thin noodles tossed in a sauce made from butter, garlic, and grated black truffle.
- Porchetta: A traditional Umbrian dish made from slow-roasted pork seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and fennel.
- Cinghiale in Umido: This is a hearty stew of wild boar meat, tomatoes, garlic, and red wine.
- Crostini di Fegato: A popular appetiser made from chicken liver pâté spread on toasted bread.
- Torta al Testo: A flatbread made with flour, water, and olive oil, then cooked on a hot griddle. People serve it with various toppings, such as prosciutto, cheese, or vegetables.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious dishes that are staples of Umbrian cuisine. Have you visited Umbria and tried the food? Let us know about your favourite dishes in the comments below.