Trentino-Alto Adige: Warming Food

The landlocked region of Trentino-Alto Adige includes the lofty Dolomite Mountains in the north and east, and pleasantly undulating hills awash with vineyards and orchards in the south. Freshwater fish, pork, game, dairy produce, vegetables and fruit are basic elements of the simple local cuisine. Germanic and Hungarian influences are evident in the tasty dumplings, thick soups flavoured with caraway seeds, smoked ham, light pastry strudels of various kinds and the liberal use of sauerkraut. German-type sausages are very popular, especially when served with beer and sauerkraut, or sweet fruity chutney. Big, hearty soups are made with barley and speck, and there is a tasty local version of a Swiss rosti, a crisp pancake of grated potatoes and chopped bacon. The emphasis of the cuisine is always on hearty, strong-tasting food made to sustain the population through the cold weather.