Rome is more. When discussing Roman cuisine, delicious pasta dishes often come to mind: carbonara, amatriciana, cacio e pepe, gricia… Yet, Roman culinary tradition is much broader. It encompasses a diverse array of dishes and rich flavors that reflect the capital’s vibrant history and culture. Each dish tells a story, an anecdote, a tradition passed down through generations. Today, we bring you a guide to Roman cuisine: must-try dishes to enjoy during your visit to the capital. Experience a culinary adventure that will enchant your taste buds with authentic and unforgettable flavors. Dive into the rich, diverse offerings of Rome’s traditional food scene and savor every moment.

Trippa alla romana: a taste of ancient Rome

Savoring filetto di baccalà: a roman culinary icon

Filetto di Baccalà stands out as a hallmark of Roman cuisine. Specifically, this salted fish, fried in a light and airy batter, boasts a crispy exterior and a tender interior. Typically, people enjoy it as an appetizer or a snack while wandering through Rome’s charming alleys. To experience it authentically, you should visit the historic fry shops in Rome’s heart, where the recipe has been preserved for generations. Furthermore, the simplicity of its ingredients and the expertise in its preparation make Filetto di Baccalà an essential Roman delicacy.

Coda alla vaccinara: the heart of Rome 

Coda alla Vaccinara epitomizes the heart of Roman culinary tradition. This oxtail stew is meticulously simmered with tomatoes, celery, onions, and carrots. The slow cooking process yields exceptionally tender meat that effortlessly melts in your mouth, all enveloped in a rich and savory sauce. This dish has its roots in Rome’s butcher shops, where resourceful workers transformed lesser cuts of meat into mouthwatering creations. Coda alla Vaccinara narrates a history of ingenuity, showcasing how Romans skillfully maximized every culinary resource.

Carciofo alla Giudia: a roman-jewish culinary gem

Carciofo alla Giudia stands out as one of the most beloved dishes of Roman cuisine and honors the city’s Jewish tradition. Specifically, cooks fry whole artichokes, making them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a unique and unmistakable flavor. Preparing carciofo alla Giudia demands skill and patience. First, the chef cleans and opens the artichoke like a flower. Then, they fry it twice to achieve the perfect combination of crispiness and tenderness. Ultimately, diners can savor this true culinary masterpiece in the restaurants of Rome’s Jewish Ghetto.

Puntarelle: a crisp and refreshing roman delight

Puntarelle is a typical Roman side dish, prepared with the sprouts of Catalonian chicory. They are cut into thin strips and seasoned with an emulsion of oil, garlic, and anchovies. Fresh and crunchy, puntarelle is the ideal complement to any Roman dish. This dish perfectly exemplifies how simple, fresh ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. Puntarelle is an appetizer or side dish, providing an authentic and unforgettable taste experience. Rome provides an unparalleled gastronomic adventure, steeped in traditions and tastes that mirror its historical and cultural tapestry. Every dish is a time capsule, telling stories of life and a fervent love for food. Be sure to indulge in these delectable traditional dishes when you visit the Eternal City, and let each bite transport you through Rome’s rich culinary legacy.

Learn to cook with us: we provide the best cooking classes in Rome

Bring with you a piece of Italy by learning traditional Italian recipes. During our cooking classes, you will have the opportunity to learn how to make Roman and Neapolitan pizza, fettuccine, ravioli, tiramisù, and other specialties! Moreover, you will learn the art of Italian cuisine and feel like a real chef. Each class consists of a first practical part, where a local chef will teach you the secrets of Italian traditional food, and a second part where you will enjoy your food creations. Additionally, we provide different cooking classes and food tours in Rome. We mix the cultural environment of the Eternal City with the typical Italian cuisine. Furthermore, our food tours include tastings of traditional Italian food.

The best cooking classes to do when you are in Rome!

(fonte immagine: Freepik)