Contrary To Belief: Ten Intriguing Facts about Popular Italian Dishes
When you think of Italian cuisine, images of aromatic pasta, cheesy pizzas, and delightful gelato might flood your mind. Italy is a treasure trove of culinary delights, and over the centuries, it has influenced and captured the taste buds of food lovers worldwide. But there’s more to Italian dishes than meets the palate. This article dives into ten intriguing facts about some of Italy’s most beloved foods, painting a picture that goes beyond the plate.
1. Spaghetti Bolognese Wasn’t Invented in Italy
Bolognese sauce is often associated with spaghetti in many parts of the world. But, surprise! It wasn’t invented in Italy at all. This hearty meat sauce was first concocted in the city of Bologna. However, authentic Pasta alla Bolognese is traditionally made with tagliatelle and only uses meat, tomato, and onions.
2. Pizza Margherita Has Royal Roots
The story goes that in 1889, in Naples, Italy, a Pizzaiolo created a pizza in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy. He used tomatoes (red for the "royal" house of Savoy), mozzarella (white for the ‘Milky’ House of Savoy), and basil (green for the ‘Young’ House of Savoy).
3. The Original Pizza Had No Tomato
Before the 16th century, Italian pizzas were without tomato toppings. The New World fruit wasn’t in the picture until it was brought over to Europe. The first documented use of tomatoes on pizza is from 1905 in Naples.
4. America Influenced Italian Cuisine
By the late 19th century, Italian immigrants in America started adapting their dishes to suit the palate of the new audience. Variations like pineapple on pizza began here, leading to divided opinions that still rage on globally!
5. Ice Cream Originated in China
The refreshing treat we know as ice cream first made its appearance in China. However, an Italian, who once visited China, brought back this frozen delight. Gelato, which is Italian ice cream, is enjoyed worldwide but is distinguished by a lower fat content.
6. Espresso Was Invented in the USA
The espresso machine, which gave us the rich and invigorating drink, was actually invented by an Angelo Moriondo in Turin, but it was brought to the USA by an Italian named Luigi Bezzera, who made significant modifications to the machine.
7. Prosecco Is To Venice What Champagne Is To France
Prosecco hails from Venice, Italy. It was once exclusively consumed in the mayor’s and nobleman’s courts. However, it made a comeback in the 2000s and is now cheerfully enjoyed by many globally.
8. Risotto Alla Milanese Turned Golden From a Cooking Experiment
Risotto alla Milanese, the creamy risotto with saffron, didn’t always have its signature yellow hue. It was in the 16th century that some believe the first drop of saffron ended up in the dish – either by accident or design – forever changing its color and flavor profile.
9. ‘Pasta’ Means ‘Dough Extended’
The word ‘pasta’ in Italian cuisine comes from the Italian word for dough that is established or extended. This hints at the long history and evolution of pasta, from simple flour and water to a globally adored staple.
10. Minestrone Soup Is Actually Not Italian
Minestrone, the thick vegetable soup, is often believed to be of Italian creation. In reality, it’s from France and was brought over by French soldiers during the Italian wars. Interestingly, French dictionaries define ‘minestrone’ as a thick soup of vegetables and legumes.
FAQs section:
Q: Does Italy have a national cuisine?
Answer: No, Italy is too geografically, historically, and culturally diverse to have a single ‘national cuisine’. Each region has its distinct culinary tradition.
Q: What’s the proper way to consume pizza?
Answer: Traditional Italian pizza is usually eaten with just hands. It’s considered very improper to use a fork and knife, although those rules have loosened up in many parts of the world.
Q: Are there rules on how to eat pasta?
Answer: Traditionally, Italians use a spoon on one side and fork on the other. But again, these rules have eased over time and largely depend on personal preference.
Q: Is Gelato the same as ice cream?
Answer: While they are similar, Gelato typically has less fat and is served at a slightly warmer temperature than ice cream. It’s made with milk, not cream, so it’s denser and generally healthier than ice cream.
This exploration sheds a new light on how beloved Italian dishes came to be and perhaps emboldens you to dig a little deeper next time you enjoy an Italian meal. So, the next time you see spaghetti, a slice of pizza, or a gelato cone, remember, you’re not just indulging in a meal—you’re partaking in centuries of culture, history, and innovation.
