10 must eats in Milan, by Mark Wiens
- Nervetti
- Risotto alla Milanese
- Ossobuco
- Panettone
- Gorgonzola
- Cotoletta alla Milanese
- Panini
- Busecca alla Milanese
- Mondeghil
- Cassoeula
- Polenta Fine Del Mondo
!summarize
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Part 1/6:
An Ultimate Italian Food Tour in Milan
Milan is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, fashion, and most importantly, its distinctive culinary offerings. In this culinary journey, we dive into an unforgettable Italian food tour, discovering the ten best dishes that Milan has to offer.
Meet the Locals
During this epic gastronomic experience, we meet Katarina, a local guide with a passion for food. She takes us to a family-run restaurant, Pror B, where Chef Andrea, a spirited and lively character, prepares some of the most iconic dishes of Milanese cuisine.
The Iconic Osso Buco and Risotto
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The first highlight of our tour is the famous osso buco, a delectable veal shank dish that Chef Andrea has mastered over 63 years of operation. The veal is cooked in a base of butter and a sautéed mix of vegetables, creating a deep and rich flavor.
As Chef Andrea crafts the dish, he pairs it with risotto alla Milanese, characterized by its vibrant saffron hue. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, setting the tone for what’s to come. After an hour of slow cooking, we savor this Italian classic, where each bite merges the richness of the veal with the creaminess of the risotto, creating an explosion of flavors in our mouths.
A Slice of Panettone
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Next, we explore panettone, a traditional Christmas cake originating from Milan. Here, we have the opportunity to taste an artisan version filled with natural ingredients, raisins, and candied orange peel, making it a festive delight. The origins of panettone date back to the time of the kings, and it has since become a staple during the holiday season, often gifted to loved ones.
Indulging in Gorgonzola
Milan is also famous for Gorgonzola, and we find ourselves at a local shop to taste some of its variations. The mellow sweetness of the sweet Gorgonzola pairs beautifully with a mustard jelly, enhancing the cheese’s mild profile. Transitioning into the spicy version, we delight in its intensity and complex flavors, paired with crusty bread.
The Comfort of Cotoletta
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No Milanese food tour is complete without Cotoletta. This beloved dish, a breaded veal cutlet fried in butter, exudes comfort and satisfaction. The authentic Milanese preparation is rich yet offers a crisp exterior that retains the juiciness of the meat inside, making every bite irresistible.
Seafood Extravaganza
As we venture further into Milan’s culinary delights, we come across a seafood pasta dish made with the freshest ingredients imported from the coastal regions. The dish bursts with enticing flavors, highlighted by basil and the ocean’s bounty. We enjoy it alongside a spicy Milan-style pizza, topped with zesty salami and fresh herbs, providing a nuanced contrast to the pasta.
A Den of Flavors: Al Matel
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Our journey takes us to Al Matel, a family-run trattoria famous for its rustic Lombardian cuisine. Here, we dive into various traditional dishes like tripe stew and mandilli, which showcases rich flavors simmered to perfection over time. The heartiness of every dish transports us back to a time of simplicity and comfort.
The Finale: Heavenly Polenta
Culminating our food adventure, we face the iconic dish of polenta. However, it isn’t just any polenta; this version, dubbed the “end of the world polenta,” features golden yellow cornmeal with fried eggs and luxurious white truffles shaved on top. Each mouthful blankets us with aromas and textures that linger long after savoring the last bite.
A Memorable Farewell
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As we wrap up this ultimate Italian food tour, filled with ten must-try dishes, it becomes evident how Milan’s culinary scene is deeply intertwined with the city’s history and culture. Each dish tells a story, adding depth to our gastronomic experience.
Katarina’s warmth, coupled with the expert craftsmanship of local chefs, makes this tour not just about the food but about celebrating the vibrant culture of Milan through its cuisine. We leave with full hearts and bellies, eager to share our experiences and perhaps plan another delicious journey through Italy in the near future.