Exploring Rieti: Local Dishes, Restaurants & Traditional Recipes

Exploring Rieti: Local Dishes, Restaurants & Traditional Recipes

Welcome to Rieti, a charming Italian town located in the Lazio region. Known for its picturesque landscapes and rich history, Rieti also offers a delightful culinary scene. Discover the flavors of this region by indulging in local dishes, exploring traditional recipes, and dining at the best restaurants. Let's delve into the world of Rieti cuisine!

Local Dishes

Rieti is blessed with a bounty of fresh ingredients, resulting in a variety of mouthwatering local dishes. Here are some notable culinary delights to try:

• Carbonara di Rieti: A variation of the classic carbonara, this dish features homemade pasta cooked al dente and tossed with a creamy sauce made using local eggs, pecorino cheese, guanciale (cured pork jowl), and black pepper.
• Polenta Taragna: This hearty dish consists of cornmeal cooked with butter, cheese, and local sausages. It's a comforting dish perfect for colder months.
• Filetto di Fassona: Savory beef tenderloin cooked to perfection and served with a variety of sauces, such as gorgonzola or black truffle.
• Porchetta: A traditional Italian dish, porchetta is a slow-roasted whole pig seasoned with garlic, herbs, and spices. The succulent meat is typically served in a sandwich.
• Pizza Romana: Rieti is also known for its delicious pizza. Try the traditional thin and crispy Roman-style pizza, topped with fresh local ingredients.

Traditional Recipes

If you want to recreate the flavors of Rieti at home, here are a few traditional recipes to try:

Recipe 1: Carbonara di Rieti

Ingredients:

• 300g homemade pasta (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
• 100g guanciale, diced
• 2 large eggs
• 100g pecorino cheese, grated
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, cook the guanciale over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, pecorino cheese, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and transfer it to a large serving bowl.
5. Add the crispy guanciale to the pasta and toss to combine.
6. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly to coat the pasta evenly. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional pecorino cheese and black pepper.

Recipe 2: Porchetta

Ingredients:

• 1 whole pig, deboned
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Handful of fresh rosemary leaves
• Handful of fresh sage leaves
• Handful of fennel seeds
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F).
2. Flatten the deboned pig on a clean surface and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Sprinkle the minced garlic, rosemary, sage, and fennel seeds over the surface of the pig.
4. Roll up the pig tightly and secure with butcher's twine.
5. Place the rolled pig on a roasting pan and cook in the preheated oven for 4-5 hours, or until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before carving.
7. Slice the porchetta and serve warm.

Restaurants

Rieti boasts a range of excellent restaurants where you can savor authentic local cuisine. Here are a few recommended establishments:

Ristorante La Foresta

A charming restaurant located in the heart of Rieti, Ristorante La Foresta offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring traditional Rieti dishes with a modern twist. Don't miss their exquisite carbonara di Rieti!

Taverna del Lupo

Nestled in a historic building dating back to the 16th century, Taverna del Lupo is known for its rustic charm and delicious regional cuisine. Their porchetta is a must-try!

Osteria del Vicolo

A hidden gem tucked away in a quaint alley, Osteria del Vicolo serves up flavorful dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Their polenta taragna is a crowd favorite.

Discover the Flavors of Rieti

Embark on a gastronomic journey in Rieti and experience the delectable flavors of this charming Italian town. From traditional dishes like carbonara di Rieti to the aromatic porchetta, Rieti's culinary offerings will leave you craving for more. Explore the recommended restaurants and immerse yourself in the rich gastronomy of Rieti.