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When it comes to Italian gastronomy, Mantua may not be the first city that comes to mind, but delve a little deeper and this charming, understated city holds much acclaim in the world of foodies. The dishes of the city have been regarded as ‘the cuisine of princes and people’, and for anyone visiting on Italian river cruises, the reason will soon become clear: simple ingredients cleverly put together to create plates of food that sing with flavour. Dishes of Mantua Many recipes date back to the realm of the Gonzaga family, who had exceptional cooks producing recipes that have stood the test of time (still produced today). One of the most famous is Toretelli di Zucca, a delicious combination of pumpkin, parmesan and amaretti, beautifully enveloped in a pasta pocket. Served with varying sauces, the base ingredients remain unchanged and the sweet pumpkin against the salty cheese and tangy mustard creates the perfect balance. Despite being a meatless dish, it is satisfying and wholesome and many chefs on Italian river cruises will delight you with a plate of this tortelli at a meal during your week onboard. Another pasta dish, Bigoli con le Sardelle, is just as simple but showcases the delicious anchovies that are caught in the local waters. Married with garlic and a sauce made of fish oil, this dish is simplicity personified. Fish is an obvious staple on a Mantua menu, and one of the most common local varieties is pike, known as ‘Luccio’ in Italian. Served hot or cold, as a starter or main meal, Luccio in Salsa is very versatile. The fish is mixed with a sauce of parsley, garlic, capers, anchovies and oil first and foremost, and then you may find peppercorns, bay and even wine making an appearance. However you sample it, it is absolutely delicious. Sausages are very popular in Mantua and the Cotechino is a local staple. Served with lentils it makes another simple but satisfying meal. Sausages also appear in other dishes, such as ratatouille and sausage (served with lentils and polenta), and Agnoli, which is a pasta parcel dish made with beef, chicken, breadcrumbs and cheese. You may also spot the good old banger in risotto, the most famous being the Risotto alla Pilota, named after the workers (pilots) involved in rice husking. There will be plenty of opportunities to indulge in sweet treats when you’re on Italian river cruises - after all, the Italians love their pastries! But if dessert is what you hanker after on your holidays, then Cake Elvezia is a good option. Boasting the typical national flavour of almond paste, the cake is made primarily from egg whites and sugar. Discs are baked and then filled with whatever the baker fancies. Eggnog, chocolate or cream are often the fillings of choice and all are worthy of sampling. If you prefer something less decadent, Torta Sbrisolona, a crumbly sweet biscuit type tart, might be for you. Simple but still bursting with flavours such as vanilla, lemon and almonds, it is extremely more-ish. On any of the many Italian river cruises your onboard chef will treat you to wonderful cuisine on a daily basis, but when you’re out and about exploring, look out for some of the delectable dishes described above and you will be getting an authentic snapshot of the food of Mantua. When booking Italian river cruises it is recommended you book with an experienced operator that provides local guides and small group travel. They will ensure that your trip not only meets, but exceeds your expectations. Author Plate Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive luxury barge holidays. If you're looking for fantastic Italian river cruises, or cruises to other great destinations, they are the go-to experts. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
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