Discover Varese's Local Cuisine: Traditional Dishes, Restaurants, & Recipes

Discover Varese's Local Cuisine: Traditional Dishes, Restaurants, & Recipes

Varese, located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, offers a rich culinary heritage that combines traditional Italian flavors with influences from nearby regions and neighboring Switzerland. From hearty pasta dishes to delectable desserts, Varese's local cuisine is sure to please the palates of food enthusiasts.

Traditional Dishes

1. Risotto alla Varesina: This creamy risotto dish, made with locally grown rice, is traditionally cooked with butter, onions, beef broth, saffron, and grated cheese. It is a beloved local specialty that showcases the region's agricultural heritage.

2. Ossobuco: This iconic Milanese dish has also found its way into the hearts of Varese locals. Ossobuco consists of braised veal shanks cooked with white wine, broth, and aromatic vegetables. It is often served with a gremolata (a mixture of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley) and accompanied by saffron-infused risotto.

3. Polenta e Cotechino: Polenta, a staple in Lombard cuisine, is a cornmeal porridge that can be served in various ways. In Varese, it is commonly served with cotechino, a flavorful pork sausage, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.

4. Capuns: This unique specialty hails from the neighboring Swiss canton of Grisons but has become popular in Varese. Capuns are savory bundles made with Swiss chard leaves wrapped around a filling of cured meat, bread, and herbs. They are then cooked in a rich broth and served with melted butter and grated cheese.

Restaurants

If you're visiting Varese and want to experience the local cuisine firsthand, here are some recommended restaurants:

1. Ristorante Montegrappa: Located in the heart of Varese, this restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring both traditional Lombard dishes and international flavors. Don't miss their creamy risotto alla Varesina!
2. Osteria Varese: Known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, this traditional osteria serves authentic Varesan cuisine such as ossobuco and polenta e cotechino. Pair your meal with a glass of local Lombard wine.
3. Trattoria del Gallo: This family-run trattoria is a hidden gem in Varese. Indulge in their homemade capuns, which perfectly blend Varese's culinary traditions with Swiss influences.
4. Ristorante San Giorgio: Located near Varese's historic center, this elegant restaurant offers a refined dining experience highlighting local ingredients and flavors. Their menu often features creative twists on traditional dishes.
5. Ristorante Al Laghetto: Situated on the shores of a picturesque lake, this restaurant offers stunning views along with a menu showcasing the best of Varese's local cuisine. Their seafood dishes are especially recommended.

Recipes

Want to recreate some of Varese's traditional dishes at home? Here are a couple of recipes to get you started:

Risotto alla Varesina

Ingredients:

• 300g Arborio rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 50g butter
• 1L beef broth
• A pinch of saffron threads
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
2. Add the rice to the pan and stir well, ensuring each grain is coated in butter.
3. Gradually ladle in the beef broth, stirring continuously until the rice absorbs each ladleful of broth.
4. After about 15-20 minutes, when the rice is cooked al dente, add the saffron threads and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the risotto rest for a few minutes before serving.

Ossobuco

Ingredients:

• 4 veal shanks, about 2 inches thick
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 250ml white wine
• 500ml beef or vegetable broth
• 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the veal shanks with salt and pepper.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the veal shanks on both sides, then remove them from the pot and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrot, celery, and minced garlic. Cook until softened and slightly caramelized.
4. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce.
5. Return the veal shanks to the pot and add the beef broth. Make sure the liquid covers the shanks by at least half an inch.
6. Add the fresh rosemary and lemon zest to the pot. Cover and simmer over low heat for about 2-3 hours, until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
7. Remove the veal shanks from the pot and keep them warm. Skim off any excess fat from the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve the ossobuco with the sauce spooned over it, accompanied by risotto alla Varesina or your preferred side dish.