Tuscany Italy Kaitlin Romeo Notable Regions Arezzo Massa

Tuscany, Italy Kaitlin Romeo

Notable Regions: Arezzo Massa Florence Carrara Grosseto Pisa Livorno Sienna

Historical/Cultural influences: Known as the true birthplace of the Italian Renaissance Etruscans were the first major civilization in this region Greece, and later Rome, influenced the civilization. Rome established the cities of Lucca, Pisa, Siena, and Florence Black Death in 1348, it eventually killed 60 to 80% of Tuscans. By the renaissance Florence became the cultural capital of Tuscany. In the 15 th century, the Medicis, who ruled Florence, annexed surrounding land to create modern Tuscany.

Religion Roman catholic Christian Siena's cathedral: The panforte of Tuscan churches.

Climate and geographical 8, 877. 6 square miles Almost entire region is mountains and hills. Very few but extremely fertile plains and valleys. Climate is pretty mild on the coast but harsher and rainy as you go inland. Considerable differences in temperature during the summer and winter.

Staple grains and carbohydrates: Pasta Farro Lots of breads Bruschetta and Ribolita.

Protein sources: Wine-braised game Beans and legumes Tuscan white beans include Soranini Toscanello Corona Schiaccioni cannellini Pork Beef - comes from the Chiana Valley, the breed is known as Chianina River fish and shellfish

Cooking fat: olive oil lard meat renderings

Vegetables: Mushrooms Peppers Artichokes Eggplant Zucchini Cucumbers Zucchini blossoms Onions Asparagus Green beans Spinach

Fruits: Olives Watermelon Tomatoes Melons Grapes (fiorentini and costoluti variety)

Herbs: Sweet marjoram Sage Garlic chives Rosemary Thyme Mint Parsley

Dried Spices: Fennel seeds Saffron Pepper

Flavorings Honey Olive oil Vinegars Sunflower Cream Truffles Cheese

Preserved foods: Oil-preserved vegetables Cured meats Dried fruits Jams Pickling

Beverages: Chianti (most well known for) Brunello di Montalcino Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Tuscany is also known for the dessert wine Vin Santo Coffee

Cooking techniques and methods: Grilling over vine embers and chestnut is preferred. Chicken is also split, spiced and broiled Wine braising is very popular Roasting

Cookware/specialized cookware: Enamel A lot of stew and soups so dutch ovens and large pots Earthenware Grilling over vine embers and chestnut

Eating and/or dining habits: Tuscan food is simple and abundant with local produce, mellow cheeses and grilled meats. Breakfast takes place in the early morning before work, and can consist of biscuits, cornetti which is an Italian croissant, yogurt, or cereal. Breakfast is a very light meal. There is one main meal a day, but the style of eating lunch and dinner also depends on one’s lifestyle. The main meal of the day consists of a firstcourse of pasta followed by a portion of meat, fish, or frittata (omelet), and salad. Although there are many courses, portions are small. People will have some dessert and/or fruit afterward, followed by a coffee.