Venice is not just a city of art and history, but also a city of food. The cuisine of Venice is a combination of Mediterranean and Eastern influences that make it unique and delicious. In this article, we’ll explore what to eat in Venice, from the famous cicchetti to the traditional dishes of the city.
Cicchetti: The Venetian Tapas
If you’re looking for a quick and tasty bite to eat, cicchetti is the way to go. Cicchetti are small bites of food that are typically served in bars and taverns throughout Venice. These small plates of food are perfect for sharing and can be enjoyed with a glass of wine or spritz. Some of the most popular cicchetti include baccalà mantecato (creamed cod), sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines), and polpette (meatballs).
Baccalà Mantecato
Baccalà mantecato is one of the most famous cicchetti in Venice. It’s a creamy spread made from salt cod that’s been soaked in water for several days to remove the salt. The cod is then boiled and mashed with olive oil, garlic, and parsley until it becomes a smooth, creamy texture. Baccalà mantecato is usually served on a small slice of bread.
Sarde in Saor
Sarde in saor is another popular cicchetti in Venice. It’s a sweet and sour dish made with sardines, onions, pine nuts, and raisins. The sardines are first fried and then marinated in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and onions. The dish is then garnished with pine nuts and raisins.
Polpette
Polpette are meatballs that are often served as cicchetti in Venice. They’re made with a mixture of ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and Parmesan cheese. The meatballs are usually fried and served with a tomato sauce or on a small slice of bread.
Traditional Venetian Dishes
If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, there are plenty of traditional Venetian dishes to choose from. These dishes are often hearty and filling, perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Risotto al nero di seppia
Risotto al nero di seppia is a classic Venetian dish made with squid ink. The black color of the dish comes from the ink of the squid. The risotto is usually cooked with onions, white wine, and fish broth, and garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Bigoli in Salsa
Bigoli in salsa is a dish that’s been around for centuries in Venice. It’s a simple dish made with thick spaghetti-like pasta called bigoli, which is cooked and then tossed with a sauce made from onions, anchovies, and sardines. The dish is usually served with a sprinkling of parsley on top.
Fegato alla Veneziana
Fegato alla Veneziana is a dish made with calf’s liver and onions. The liver is sliced thinly and then cooked with onions until it becomes tender. The dish is often served with polenta, a type of cornmeal porridge.
Sweet Treats
No meal is complete without a sweet treat, and Venice has plenty to choose from. From the famous tiramisu to the traditional fritole, there’s something for everyone.
Tiramisu
Tiramisu is a dessert that needs no introduction. It’s a creamy, coffee-flavored dessert made with ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder. The dessert is usually served in individual portions and is perfect for sharing.
Fritole
Fritole are traditional Venetian sweets that are usually eaten during Carnival. They are small, fried doughnuts that are flavored with lemon zest and raisins. The doughnuts are usually dusted with powdered sugar before serving.
In conclusion, Venice is a food lover’s paradise. From the famous cicchetti to the traditional dishes of the city, there’s something for everyone. So, the next time you’re in Venice, be sure to try some of these delicious dishes and sweet treats. You won’t be disappointed!
