Nestled in the northwest corner of Italy, Piemonte – the birthplace of Chef Marzio – is a region renowned for its rich culinary traditions, diverse landscapes, and world-class wines. Known for its sophisticated and hearty cuisine, Piemonte offers a gastronomic experience that reflects its history, culture, and the bounty of its land. Join us as we explore the Italian food traditions of Piemonte, a region where culinary excellence is a way of life.

A Land of Abundance

Piemonte, which means “foot of the mountains,” is characterised by its varied terrain, including the majestic Alps, rolling hills, and fertile plains.

This diverse landscape provides abundant high-quality ingredients, from truffles and mushrooms to rice and wines.

The region’s climate is ideal for agriculture, allowing for cultivating exceptional produce that forms the backbone of Piemontese cuisine.

The Influence of History and Culture

Piemonte’s history and cultural influences have shaped its culinary traditions. As a land of ancient settlements and a crossroads for trade, Piemonte has absorbed diverse culinary influences over the centuries. The region’s cuisine reflects a blend of local ingredients, techniques, and influences from neighbouring France and Switzerland.

The House of Savoy, a royal dynasty originating in Piemonte, played a significant role in shaping the region’s culinary identity. The Savoy court was known for its lavish banquets and refined tastes, which contributed to developing sophisticated dishes that are still celebrated today.

Signature Dishes of Piemonte

Piemonte’s cuisine is characterized by its emphasis on rich flavours, hearty ingredients, and meticulous preparation. Here are some of the region’s signature dishes that showcase its culinary heritage:

Bagna Cauda

This traditional dish is a warm dip made from garlic, anchovies, olive oil, and butter. It is typically served with an assortment of raw and cooked vegetables for dipping. Bagna Cauda is a communal dish, often enjoyed during autumn and winter gatherings. Our chef Marzio has been serving his mum’s recipe for as long as he has been cooking.

Agnolotti del Plin

These small, hand-pinched pasta parcels are filled with a mixture of meat, typically a blend of veal, pork, and rabbit. Agnolotti del Plin is often served in a simple butter and sage sauce or in a rich meat broth and served at Osteria during winter months as a daily special when available.

Vitello Tonnato

A classic Piemontese dish, it features thinly sliced veal served cold with a creamy tuna sauce. This dish exemplifies the region’s love for combining rich flavours and luxurious textures and is often served as a daily special here at Osteria.

Bollito Misto

This hearty dish consists of various cuts of boiled meats, including beef, veal, and chicken, served with an array of condiments such as salsa verde and mustard. Bollito Misto is a traditional winter dish, often enjoyed during festive occasions.

Explore more of the traditional Italian dishes available at our Northcote Road restaurant.

The Truffle Capital

Piemonte is internationally renowned for its white truffles, particularly those from the town of Alba. These rare and aromatic fungi are considered a delicacy and are often shaved over pasta, risotto, or eggs to enhance their flavour.

The Alba White Truffle Fair, held annually in the autumn, attracts food enthusiasts from around the world, eager to experience the unique taste and aroma of this prized ingredient.

Truffle season is one not to miss at Osteria Antica Bologna, available annually from mid-November to the end of January. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

The Wine Heritage of Piemonte

Piemonte is home to some of Italy’s most prestigious wines, including Barolo, Barbaresco, and Barbera. The region’s vineyards, particularly those in the Langhe and Monferrato areas, produce wines celebrated for their complexity and elegance. The Nebbiolo grape, used to make Barolo and Barbaresco, is known for its ability to produce wines with deep flavours and ageing potential.

Wine is an integral part of Piemontese cuisine, often paired with meals to enhance the dining experience. The region’s winemakers take great pride in their craft, adhering to traditional methods while embracing innovation to produce wines of exceptional quality.

Read more about the wines available at Osteria Antica Bologna.

Cheeses and Sweet Delights

Piemonte is also known for its artisanal cheeses, such as Castelmagno, Gorgonzola, and Toma. These cheeses, made from cow’s milk, reflect the region’s rich dairy tradition and are often enjoyed as part of a cheese platter or incorporated into dishes.

For those with a sweet tooth, Piemonte offers a range of desserts highlighting its culinary creativity. Gianduja, a chocolate hazelnut confection, is a Piemontese speciality with international acclaim. The region is also known for its pastries, such as baci di dama (lady’s kisses) and panna cotta, a creamy dessert made with cream, sugar, and gelatin. Panna cotta is one of our most popular Italian desserts.

Embracing Tradition and Innovation

While Piemonte’s culinary traditions are deeply rooted in history, the region’s chefs and food artisans continue to innovate and evolve. The Slow Food movement originated in Piemonte and emphasises the importance of preserving traditional food practices while promoting sustainability and biodiversity. This philosophy is embraced by many Piemontese chefs, who are committed to using locally sourced ingredients and supporting small-scale producers.

Conclusion: A Culinary Legacy

The food traditions of Piemonte offer a rich tapestry of flavours, techniques, and cultural influences that continue to captivate and inspire. Piemonte’s culinary heritage is a testament to the region’s passion for food and its commitment to excellence.

At Osteria Antica Bologna, we celebrate the essence of Italian cuisine, drawing inspiration from regions like Piemonte to create dishes that honour such important region. If you’re curious to know more, come and visit Chef Marzio at our Italian restaurant on Northcote Road.