Untitled Flashcards Set

What are the main civilizations that influenced Italian food culture in ancient times?

Rome.

What influenced diet in Ancient Rome?

Social status influenced the diet.

What was gastronomy a display of in Ancient Rome?

Opulence and power.

What is garum?

A fermented fish sauce used as a dressing on food and desserts.

How was food culture dominated during the Middle Ages?

Heavily dominated by Christian religion.

What characterized feasting during the Middle Ages?

Feasting and banquets were reserved for religious holidays and for the rich.

What culinary shift occurred towards the end of the Middle Ages?

Cooking returns as enjoyment and refinement.

What does the term Renaissance signify?

Rebirth.

What are key contributions of the Renaissance?

Contributions to art, literature, philosophy, and science.

What does humanism focus on?

Man at the center of the universe.

Who is a genius of the Renaissance period?

Leonardo da Vinci.

What were features of a Renaissance feast?

The meal became a stage for a show with numerous servers and entertainment.

What distinguishes the food habits of peasants from nobles in the Renaissance?

Peasants had 'cucina povera' while nobles enjoyed feasts and rich banquets.

What influence did Caterina de Medici have on French cuisine?

Brought her school of Tuscan cuisine, revolutionized French cuisine, introduced fork usage, and new foods.

What classic ingredients were important before the discovery of America?

Corn, chili pepper, potatoes, tobacco, cocoa, peanuts, pumpkins, sunflowers, tomato.

What products are typical of the Tuscan market?

Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, cheese.

What ingredients are in Carabaccia and how does it differ from French onion soup?

Carabaccia: purple onions, almonds, peas, carrot, celery, basil, cinnamon, vegetable broth, dry white wine, grated parmigiano. French: olive oil, onions, beef broth, thyme, cheeses.

What influence did the Etruscans have on wine production?

Laid foundations for winemaking, introduced vine training, developed fermentation and aging processes.

What was the importance of Ancient Romans in wine production?

Expanded viticulture, perfected winemaking techniques, established trade routes.

What occurred in the Middle Ages regarding vineyards?

Vineyards fell into abandonment and were revived by monasteries.

How is wine used in Christian ceremonies during the Middle Ages?

Red wine is used for the Eucharist, symbolizing the blood of Christ.

What are typical food and wine pairings in Italy?

White wine with fish, red wine with meat, regional dishes with suitable wines.

Why is regional pairing important in Italian cuisine?

It enhances food's flavors and reflects local consumption culture.

What are staple ingredients of Italian cuisine?

Tomato, pasta, olive oil, bread, vegetables, wine, meat, fish, cheese, cured meats, and espresso.

What characterizes Italian cuisine?

Appreciation of food, tradition, simplicity.

Which dish represents Northern Italian cuisine?

Lasagna alla Bolognese.

Which dish represents Central Italian cuisine?

Spaghetti alla carbonara.

Which dish represents Southern Italian cuisine?

Parmigiana.

Who invented gelato made with eggs?

Bernardo Buontalenti.

What are the main ingredients of Gelato?

Milk, cream, sugar, and eggs.

Can you name some Italian street foods?

Cannoli, porchetta, piadina.

What is a Fiaschetteria?

A shop dedicated to wine consumption, taking its origins from the Castelli Romani area.

When did pasta al pomodoro become popular in Italy and why?

1837 in Naples; it was affordable and accessible.

Which country rivaled Italy in cuisine during the 17th century?

France.

Why is Artusi’s Manual significant?

It made recipes accessible to everyone, not just the rich.

How did Italian eating habits change post World Wars?

Technical advancements and women working led to time-saving kitchen appliances and altered cooking practices.

What does 'Il Cucchiaio D’Argento' represent in 1950?

Italy's transition to a society worrying about health and quality of food rather than just survival.

What is the Slow Food movement?

Promotes enjoying local produce over imported foods and cherishes culinary traditions.

What are the primary types of honey produced in Italy and their uses?

Acacia, chestnut, and millefiori; used as sweeteners and for potential health benefits.

What are the four essential ingredients for bread?

Flour, yeast, water, and salt.

How does Tuscan bread differ from other breads?

Tuscan bread is made without salt due to a heavy tax on salt.

What does 'cucina povera' mean?

Poor cooking, focused on simple and inexpensive meals.

Can you name some examples of Antipasti, First Course, Second Course and Dessert?

Antipasti: Bruschetta; First Course: Primo piatto; Second Course: Bistecca alla Fiorentina; Dessert: Tiramisu.

What defines the difference in Olive oil types?

Where it's made and conditions before harvest.

What is EVOO?

Extra virgin olive oil, with acidity below .8% and produced through cold pressing.

How can EVOO be used in cooking?

In salads and various food preparations.

What are staple dishes from Tuscan cuisine?

Pappa al Pomodoro and Castagnaccio.

What are the main ingredients in Pappa al Pomodoro?

Tomato sauce, basil, garlic, EVOO, and pepper.

What does the EU food classification achieve?

Classifies and describes foods for dietary guidance.

What do PDO and PGI stand for?

PDO: Protected Designation of Origin; PGI: Protected Geographical Indication.

What are ancient and recent food preservation methods?

Curing, dehydration, salting, freezing, and fermentation.

How is Prosciutto di Parma made?

Cured leg of pork with pure sea salt, aged for at least 12 months.

What is the origin of Parmigiano Reggiano?

Made in Parma and regions around it, using cow milk and aging processes.

What is Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena made from?

Grapes, white wine, and caramel, aged in casks.

How is the taste of Aceto Balsamico described?

Sweet and sour; enhances meats and vinaigrettes.

What distinguishes Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena?

Higher acidity, longer-cooked must, and specific container regulations.

What is the base ingredient for vinegar?

Grapes like lambrusco, trebbiano, ancellotta.

What is the Italian attitude towards food and beverages?

They love sharing meals, wine, and coffee, excluding pizza.

What is the cultural significance of coffee in Italy?

A moment of relaxation and socialization, historically cultivated in Ethiopia.

What are the differences between black and white truffles?

Color, availability, and rarity; white truffles are more expensive.

How does food relate to culture and society?

Represents heritage, supports local economies, and fosters social gatherings.

What types of food are associated with Christmas in Italy?

Panettone and the 7 fishes.

What food is linked to Ferragosto in Italy?

Watermelon.

What is associated with Labor Day in Italy?

BBQs or picnics.

How does an Italian 'gastronomia' differ from a grocery store?

Focuses on quality, freshness, and detail rather than just stocked shelves.

What Arab influences exist in Italian food culture?

Introduction of orange, rice, and pistachios.

What French influences are seen in Italian cuisine?

Use of butter, cheese, and meat sauces.

What ingredient is considered an exotic staple in Italian cuisine?

Tomato.

What are the main ingredients in Risotto alla Milanese?

Rice, broth, onion, white wine, butter, and cheese.

What is the historical origin of Risotto alla Milanese?

Originates from Milan around 1574.