When many people think of Italian culture, they think of cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes are pizza and pasta. However, the world of Italian cuisine is more than that, and the history of Italian cuisine is very diverse. Different regions of Italy have developed their own cooking styles centered around local ingredients, and other influences throughout history have influenced Italian food.
culinary history
The history of Italian cuisine actually goes back more than two thousand years. It flourished during the Roman Empire. During that time, food preparation was very important, although much of the earlier art of cooking has since been lost. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Italian food began to become more diverse. The different city states in the area began to develop their own ways of cooking, as well as their own distinctive flavors that came from the foods that grew in the area. Meats, cheese and even wine were made different.
Regional Diversity
The diversity of the history of Italian cuisine goes back to the different areas where it was conceived. The north used Tuscan meat, while in the Marche black truffles became popular. Many Italian cheeses, such as provolone and mozzarella, were developed in the south. Citrus was also used in the south. Breads and pastas also differed from region to region.
The south used more pasta like hard spaghetti, while in the north softer egg noodles were popular. Milan was known for its risotto. Naples, on the other hand, became known for its pizza. The coastal regions became known for their seafood dishes. Anchovies, lobster, sardines, and swordfish have become part of much of the history of Italian cooking.
external influences
Another factor in the history of Italian cuisine was the influence of other cultures on cooking. Ancient Greek cuisine was integrated as part of the dishes, but the Roman Empire also incorporated other flavors, such as wheat wine and fine spices. The ingredients for Italian cuisine found their way to China, contributing to the wide variety of flavors and dishes. The island of Sardinia was influenced by the Mediterranean, while Sicily received many influences from North Africa. The southern parts of the country were also affected by the influence of the Arabs, especially when it comes to sweets, such as the popular cassata dessert.
Then
Some of the most popular dishes throughout the history of Italian cuisine have been reborn. For example, some believe that pasta was brought to Italy from China during the time of Marco Polo. However, this was actually a rediscovery of a food that had been popular in Roman times. That early pasta is not unlike the ones enjoyed around the world today.
The history of Italian cuisine continues to evolve, and today there are still clear differences between the northern and southern regions of the country. Traditions reflect the deep culture and history that originally inspired them. So every time you cook an authentic Italian dish, you’re cooking a piece of history.