When it comes to Italian cuisine, Bologna is a city that should not be missed. Located in the Emilia-Romagna region, Bologna is known for its regional specialties and traditional dishes. Here are some top recommendations of what to eat in Bologna.

The Famous Bolognese Sauce

No trip to Bologna would be complete without trying the famous Bolognese sauce. The original recipe, which dates back to the 18th century, calls for ground beef or pork, onions, celery, carrots, tomatoes, milk, and white wine. Some modern variations include pancetta, prosciutto, or chicken liver. This sauce is traditionally used to dress tagliatelle, but can also be used for lasagna or a hearty ragù.

Tortellini and Other Pasta Delights

Another must-try dish is tortellini. These small stuffed pasta pillows are typically filled with a mixture of pork loin, Parma ham, mortadella, and Parmesan cheese. They are served in a flavorful broth or with cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. But there are many other types of pasta to enjoy in Bologna, such as tagliatelle al ragù, gramigna alla salsiccia, or lasagne al forno.

The King of Italian Meats: Prosciutto di Parma

Bologna\’s neighbor, Parma, is famous for its high-quality cured meats, including prosciutto di Parma. This product must meet strict requirements to receive the official stamp of approval, such as the pigs must be raised and slaughtered in Italy and fed a specific diet. The prosciutto is then aged for at least one year to develop its rich, salty flavor. It is often served with a plate of Parmesan cheese, breadsticks, and a glass of Lambrusco wine.

Crescentine with Salumi and Cheese

If you\’re looking for a quick but tasty snack, try crescentine with salumi and cheese. Crescentine are small, fried dough balls that are typically served hot with a plate of cured meats and cheese. They are the perfect accompaniment to a glass of Pignoletto, a local white wine.

Bologna\’s Secret Delight: Tigelle

Tigelle are small, disc-shaped breads that are typically split in half and filled with various ingredients, such as cheese, prosciutto, or salami. They are called by different names in other regions of Italy, such as borlenghi or crescentine modenesi. They are made by cooking a special dough in a small mold over an open flame, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.

Italian Gelato and Pastries

Beyond savory cuisine, Bologna also offers some excellent gelato and pastry shops. Try a few scoops of creamy gelato flavors such as nocciola (hazelnut), cioccolato fondente (dark chocolate), or stracciatella (vanilla with chocolate chips). For something sweeter, try a traditional pastry like the sfogliatella or the zuppa inglese.

The Final Course: A Glass of Amaro Montenegro

To conclude your meal, consider a glass of Amaro Montenegro, a popular Italian digestif. This bittersweet liqueur is made by infusing over 40 herbs and spices, including orange peel, coriander, and myrrh, into a base of neutral spirit. It is often served neat or with a splash of soda water or tonic water. It is the perfect way to end a Bolognese feast.

Bologna\’s Food Markets

In addition to restaurants and cafes, Bologna\’s food markets offer a wide variety of fresh and locally sourced products. One of the most famous is Mercato di Mezzo, located in the city center, which features vendors selling fruits, vegetables, meats, cheese, and wine. Another market to check out is Mercato delle Erbe, which is open daily and features over 30 different shops selling everything from fresh pasta to seafood.

Bologna\’s Wine Scene

Bologna is located in the Emilia-Romagna region, which is known for producing some top-quality Italian wines. Lambrusco, a sparkling red wine, is a popular choice for pairing with salumi or pasta dishes. Pignoletto is a dry, refreshing white wine that pairs well with seafood, grilled vegetables, or light appetizers. If you\’re looking for something stronger, try an amaro, a herbal liqueur that is served neat or in cocktails.

Cooking Classes and Food Tours in Bologna

If you\’re interested in learning more about Bolognese cuisine, consider taking a cooking class or a food tour. There are several options available for all levels of experience and budgets. You can learn how to make fresh pasta, traditional sauces, or local desserts. Or you can explore the city\’s food scene with a knowledgeable guide who will introduce you to hidden gems and local favorites.

Sustainability in Bolognese Cuisine

Like many other cities, Bologna is also taking steps towards sustainability in its food system. Several restaurants and markets are focusing on using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, reducing food waste, and supporting small-scale farmers. There are also initiatives to promote biodiversity and traditional food knowledge, such as the Ark of Taste project, which aims to protect and promote endangered food products.

Bologna\’s food culture is a rich and diverse one, offering something for every palate and budget. From classic dishes like Bolognese sauce and tortellini to lesser-known specialties like tigelle and crescentine, there is always something new to discover. So next time you\’re in Bologna, don\’t be afraid to indulge in some of its delicious food offerings!