Italian cuisine not only fills your belly, but also allows you to celebrate life. For Italians, a meal is a family gathering. Long tables are set and meals are savoured in the company of conversation.
Each bite is a piece of Italy’s rich history and the blessings of its nature. This cuisine is not only a food culture but also an art of living.
Italian Cuisine: Where History and Flavour Meet
Italy… The cradle of art, history and civilisation. The birthplace not only of the Renaissance but also of a culinary culture that leaves unforgettable traces on the palate. Italian cuisine is a combination of centuries-old tradition, the generosity of nature and craftsmanship. There is a story behind every dish, a passion hidden in every flavour.
The origins of Italian cuisine date back to the Ancient Roman Empire. The Romans turned the culinary art into a culture and brought the abundance of the Mediterranean to their tables. At that time, dishes flavoured with honey, spices and wine were at the forefront.
In the Middle Ages, spices and new cooking techniques brought to Sicily by Arab merchants brought a new dimension to cuisine. However, the real transformation took place with the Geographical Discoveries. Tomatoes from America became an indispensable part of Italian cuisine and gave life to pizza and pasta. During the Renaissance period, food began to be presented as a work of art. Caterina de’ Medici, who married from Florence to the French palace, carried the subtleties of Italian cuisine to French cuisine, thus shaping European gastronomy.
Flavour Secrets of Italian Cuisine:
The magic of Italian cuisine lies in its simplicity and quality of ingredients. Few but essential ingredients are used; naturalness and flavour are at the forefront.
Although the dishes vary according to the regions, they have the following in common:
- Fresh and Natural Ingredients: Natural ingredients such as tomatoes, olive oil, basil, garlic, parmesan cheese and basil are present in every dish.
- Bread, Olive Oil and Cheese: It is indispensable for Italian tables. Breads such as focaccia and ciabatta are dipped in olive oil.
- Handmade Pasta: Fresh pasta varieties made by hand, not industrial, are the centrepiece of the tables.
- Wood Oven Flavour: A stone oven is used especially in pizza and bread making, which adds a different dimension to the flavour.
Discover the Regional Diversity of Italian Cuisine!
Each region of Italy gives a different identity to the cuisine with its unique flavours. The unique sauces and flavours of each region offer rich recipes to Italian cuisine. Here are the flavours according to the regions that bring diversity to Italy:
Northern Italy Rich and Creamy Flavours
Northern cuisine is characterised by butter, cheese and meat. Risotto, polenta and ossobuco (veal shank dish) are the main dishes of this region. Luxury delicacies such as Parmesan cheese and truffles also belong to the north.
Central Italy Balance and Tradition
Central Italian cuisine combines the freshness of the Mediterranean with the hearty flavours of the north. Vinegars made from Tuscan grapes, Florentine steak (Bistecca alla Fiorentina) and the famous Roman carbonara are among the culinary heritage of this region.
Southern Italy Cuisine of the Sun and Seafood
Southern Italy is characterised by olive oil, fresh herbs and seafood. Naples’ pizza, Sicily’s Arancini (stuffed rice balls) and Caprese salad originated from this region. It can be said that tomatoes and spices reign here.
Masterpieces of Italian Cuisine:
Pizza: Margherita pizza, made for Queen Margherita in Naples in 1889, represents the flag of Italy with its red tomatoes, white mozzarella and green basil.
Macaroni: There are hundreds of types of pasta such as ravioli, lasagne, spaghetti, penne. Each sauce is paired with a different type of pasta. Bolognese, pesto, Alfredo and arabiata are among the most famous sauces.
Cheeses: Cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano, mozzarella, ricotta, gorgonzola and pecorino are frequently used in dishes and appetisers.
Desserts: The exquisite flavour of Tiramisu with coffee and mascarpone cheese, the crispy dough and creamy filling of Cannoli, the silky texture of Gelato reveal the importance Italian cuisine attaches to dessert.
Plates prepared with love and passion: Italian A’la Carte Restaurant
Kilikya Palace Italian A’la Carte Restaurant with its rich menu will reflect this lifestyle and you will have unforgettable memories with your loved ones at happy tables with long conversations.
And remember; for Italians, the best food is the food shared with love. We offer you and your loved ones every recipe we prepare with love.
Our motto while preparing our Italian A’la Carte Restaurant flavours for our valued guests:
‘Mangia bene, ridi spesso, ama molto!’
‘Eat well, laugh often, love a lot!’
