These Are The Foods You Must Try When Exploring Italy! (II)

Continuing on from the last post, there are, of course, many more Italian foods that deserve a mention as “must-tries”. In fact, endless books and documentaries are dedicated to the topic and you could make countless trips to Italy where all you did was eat. However, there isn't infinite time or space here to talk about all of those foods and once you have found a vacation rental in Italy, you probably don't have indefinite time or resources to try everything so, this is a whittled down a list of the key foods that you need to try in Italy.

3. Balsamic Vinegar

This is, obviously, not a stand-alone food. However, as it is a key cupboard essential in many homes around the world and Italy is its birthplace, we figured you might want to take the opportunity to learn more and see how delicious the product can actually be.

Much like wine, balsamic vinegar varies hugely in terms of cost, age and quality. Made from a reduction of cooked white Trebbiano grape juice, it has been produced in the cities of Modena and Reggio Emilia in the Emilia-Romagna region since the Middle Ages, with written records going back to the 11th century. Strict techniques and requirements were established to be followed by any producers of Balsamic Vinegar and it was awarded an IGP label by the European Commission in 2009, recognising its status as a protected traditional regional product. Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale is the true balsamic vinegar, aged for a minimum of 12 years, thicker in consistency and with a rich, complex flavour. Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena, however, is the less expensive, commercial version of the product that most are more familiar with.

Each September the Acetaie Aperte takes place in which over 30 Balsamic Vinegar producers welcome visitors to see their artisan factories and enjoy tastings. Tours and tastings are also available from particular producers year round.

If you are curious about this cupboard staple or a serious foodie, just find a villa with pool in Emilia-Romagna and come learn more about it and discover the best varieties for yourself.

4. Panettone

So, this food is likely to only be relevant if you are visiting during the Christmas period. However, one cannot deny the fame of the panettone. This Tuscan festive cake is a staple of Italian Christmas celebrations and is also found in large quantities in speciality food stores the world over each December.

The cake originates from Milan, though its exact beginnings are uncertain, and is thought to have evolved from a Roman sweetened leavened cake with honey. It was not associated with Christmas until the 18th century. Now it is one more reason to seek out a holiday rental in Milan and explore the city over Christmas.

For our final picks of must-try Italian food, be sure to read on to the last post in this series.