7 Unforgettable Foods from Umbria, Italy
1. Strangozzi alla Spolentina
The pasta was simplistic and the execution was flawless. The simplicity of the dish really allows the freshness and the authentic flavors of Italy to shine through! Strangozzi is a long spaghetti type pasta that is common to the region of Umbria. It is made entirely by hand and does not incorporate eggs. The pasta has a fantastic bite to it and a nice chew while the sauce is spicy and perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and peppers. Truly, one of my favorite foods from Umbria!
2. Pecorino Toscano D.O.P.
Pecorino has always been near and dear to my heart. However, Pecorino Toscano D.O.P. takes my love to a whole new level. This particular pecorino is made only in Umbria using sheep’s milk sourced from pastures lying within the area of origin. Both the ancient cheese making technique and natural environment come through in the delicate and unique taste. Pecorino Toscano D.O.P. is made fresh and aged. I’m partial to the the fresh semi soft cheese which has a milky, mild, and sweet flavor!
3. Montefalco Wines
Wine is part of the food pyramid! Don’t forget that. Montefalco is world renowned for its wines. Both Sagrantino and Grechetto varieties are not to be missed on your next trip to Umbria. Red wines are synonymous with Italy and the white varieties normally take a back seat. However, I was extremely fond of the white wines in this region, especially the Benedetti & Grigi Montefalco Grechetto D.O.C. No matter your preference, white or red, make sure it has the designation D.O.C.G, D.O.C., or I.G.T. for a truly authentic experience.
4. Black Truffles
You can’t make it through a multiple course dinner in Umbria without having a dish laced with black truffle. And trust me, there are no complaints about that from me. According to Umbria Tourism, Black Truffles are a delicacy of the region and are also one of th emost ubiquitous foods from Umbria. For instance, truffles can be found in any area that runs along the Nera River. Similarly, It’s no surprise that Umbria is home to Urbani Tartufi, the worlds largest truffle purveyor.
5. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Like wine, olive oil should be tasted from every region. Olive oil from this region is well known for its bitter and spicy notes (sounds odd but trust me, its delicious). The olive variety is called Moraiolo and is only found in Spoleto to Assisi. I’m a bit biased to MARFUGA P.D.O extra virgin olive oil and for good reason. The l’affiorante is aromatic, spicy, and has notes of almond, grass, and artichokes. Oh yea, did i mention it contains 6 -7 times the amount of antioxidants than competitor olive oil? Talk about LIQUID GOLD.
6. Chocolate
Chocolate from Perugia is famous in its own right. In other words, it’s one of the most well known foods from Umbria. So much so that they have a yearly festival called Eurochocolate. The history here in Umbria is rich, just like the chocolates! Dulcinea Chocolate Factory was culminated in 2011 and has been churning out delicious chocolates ever since. Try the olive oil creme filled dark chocolate, I promise you wont be sorry!
7. Proscuitto di Norcia P.G.I.
Proscuitto di Norcia P.G.I. is a unique balance of spicy and salty. The care taken to preserve these meats has been around since the ancient Roman times. For that reason, butchers from Norcia are wold renowned. Most noteworthy, Proscuitto di Norcia P.G.I has no additives or preservatives. The butchers truly let nature speak for itself!
