The UNESCO ‘Creative City of Gastronomy’ is the birthplace of some of the most widely appreciated Italian products

Parma, the Italian capital of culture 2020, boasts jewels of Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Many of them jewels cherish impressive works of art. Like the Galleria Nazionale, which houses work by local artists Parmigianino and Correggio, alongside those of Da Vinci and Canaletto. However, Parma is also famous for its culinary culture and has been selected as ‘Creative City of Gastronomy‘ by UNESCO.

Here are some delicious examples of its wonderful, tasty, and refined traditional cuisine.

Parmesan Cheese, probably the most famous Italian cheese. A product of rare delicacy and with a long and glorious history. Fabulous to eat alone, it is also a fundamental ingredient in many dishes. It is protected by the PDO status that guarantees very high quality and a unique product. One of the aspects that most distinguishes this product is the seasoning, which is at least 12 months but can be over 40 months.

Parma ham, another name that sounds familiar all over the world and another product protected by the PDO status. This extraordinary cold cut, thanks to its processing and seasoning, has unique organoleptic qualities. The only preservative admitted by the PDO specification is salt: no other additives are allowed. And the peculiar seasoning is favored by the climatic characteristics of the production area. The result is an incredibly sweet, refined, and intense flavor combined with few calories.

Tortelli di erbette alla parmigiana, is a simple and scrumptious first course. Handmade fresh egg pasta welcomes a filling of ricotta, Parmesan Cheese and different seasonal herbs found on the hills of the Emilian Apennines. Traditionally it is served with melt butter and sage. 

Trippa alla parmigiana is another incredibly tasty dish prepared with simple ingredients. It is prepared with tripe, vegetables, broth, tomato sauce, and, of course, Parmesan Cheese. It is served with homemade toasted bread.