While Italy is renowned for its art, history, fashion and culture, it’s undeniable that one of its most appealing attributes is its cuisine. Any visitor that comes is almost certainly looking forward to trying its world-famous specialities and, in fact, many foodie travellers come specifically to enjoy as many of them as possible. There’s arguably no place in Italy more famous for its food than beautiful Tuscany, and the region is abundant with marvellous tastes to experience. In terms of things to do in Tuscany, eating is high on nearly everyone’s agenda, so here are just a few of the delicacies you really should ensure you get to try. Looking for Things to Do in Tuscany? Eat, Eat and Eat Some More! These delicious foods come with a warning: you’ll find it very hard to stop eating them… Castagnaccio Hard to say but easy to eat! This cake has just a few ingredients, but don’t let its simplicity fool you. Made with chestnut flour, water, sultanas and pine nuts, it has a gorgeous sweet flavour, which comes from the chestnuts. It’s served drizzled with olive oil and rosemary and is absolutely delicious. Lampredotto This one might not be as popular with tourists as some others, but the locals love it and it comes highly recommended – and if you’re looking for things to do in Tuscany, surely living like a local is one? That said, this famous street food does include the fourth stomach of a cow. Served up in a broth soaked panino and topped off with salsa verde, the filling of a cow’s stomach may not sound exactly appetising, but it really is! Ribollita Ribollita is an absolute Tuscan classic and this hearty soup made with onions, cabbage, carrots, beans and stale bread is incredibly flavoursome despite the absence of any meat or poultry. If you visit in winter it makes the perfect warming dish, but it’s good at any time of the year. Panzanella This very simple cold salad is made from fat juicy tomatoes, red onions, olive oil, basil, salt and vinegar – but its secret ingredient is bread, which is crumbled throughout and adds a wonderful texture and flavour. Crostini de Fegato If you’re a fan of pate, you’re going to love this version of it. Made from chicken livers, anchovies, butter, onion, capers and broth, the pate is served up on warm slices of bread as a truly mouth-watering appetizer or a snack with wine. Coccoli Coccoli are little fried balls of doughy deliciousness – again, so simple yet so incredibly tasty. You’ll often see them offered with sides like prosciutto and a soft cheese called stracchino. This is comfort food extraordinaire, something the Tuscans do so well. Take Your Tastebuds on a Holiday The abovementioned gourmet delights are just a minuscule selection of what’s on offer to tempt and tantalise your palate in this wonderful part of Italy. Of all the things to do in Tuscany, eating, drinking and enjoying the legendary local hospitality quite often end up as the most memorable part of any visitor’s holiday. Open your mind, open your heart and, most of all, open your mouth! Author Plate Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable tours and excursions around Italy including the best things to do in Tuscany. Whether you want to ride a Vintage Vespa, try the famous Chianti wine or get cooking with fresh local ingredients, Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.
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