The temperatures in Florida are not as brutally cold as other places around the world during the wintertime, but we all crave comfort food when the thermometer takes a plunge. We seek out those dishes that are warming and soothing to the soul. The following delectable dishes are steeped in Northern Italian tradition and are simple to make, and we even make some of those dishes right here in our 5 Star restaurant in Orlando.
Italian cooks are resourceful and in the north once the cold winter sets in, cooks were hard pressed to find supplies, so they learned how to make do with the supplies they had on hand. These marvelous meals are inexpensive to prepare and promise to please.
Ribollita is a satisfying dish akin to a very thick soup. It’s typically made from stale bread, cabbage or kale, tomatoes, potatoes and carrots. It’s flavored with herbs such as thyme, rosemary and bay leaf. Onions, celery and sometimes cannellini beans are added to the mix for extra heartiness. It’s frequently made in large batches as while the first day is delicious, the leftovers are exquisite!
Polenta is another wonderfully filling offering that is sure to warm the heart. Some people consider it to be the Italian version of grits, and that analogy is not far from the truth. Polenta is made from cornmeal and is usually served with a protein or cheese to augment its nutritional value. A creamy polenta with mushrooms, pork or shrimp is a meal that is hard to beat. You can find a plethora of polenta recipes by simply browsing the Internet.
Lasagna is another hearty, winter dish that is on the heavier side and brings great delight to most. Layers of pasta with ricotta, parmesan, mozzarella and sausage or ground beef (sometimes both) and a marinara sauce makes the richest and most amazing meal. Other stuffed pasta dishes are also hits during the cooler weather.
Pappa al Pomodoro is a dish that’s similar to Ribollita since stale bread is the main ingredient and part of its base. Instead of greens, this dish is made from tomatoes and tomato paste and rosemary. It’s thick and beautifully flavored, frequently complemented with shaved parmesan cheese.
Risotto is another chilly weather favorite. Its warm and creamy finish is sure to become a family favorite if it’s not already. Arborio rice is toasted slightly and then cooked with chicken stock, parmesan cheese, a finely diced onion, fresh parsley, and perhaps, a splash of white wine. The dish requires constant stirring and many modern recipes include seasonal vegetables and proteins in addition to herbs and spices to change things up.
Whether you crave a soup, stew or pasta, you will find the satisfaction you’re seek by trying any one of these delicious Italian dishes. Among the award-winning offerings at Christini’s Ristorante Italiano, a leading, 5 Star Restaurant in Orlando, you will find an amazing Pasta e Fagioli soup that’s very flavorful and satisfying. It’s the perfect start to an authentic, Northern Italian meal. Make your reservations now and take the chill off a cool winter night.
