CHRISTMAS COOKING - ITALIAN STYLE
Posted by Roy
If you believe the old adage that you should learn something new everyday, why not combine a traditional Christmas break with learning some Christmas cooking in the Italian style. For the lovers of Italy and its food we have chosen Christmas in Umbria. This region, aptly named “The Green Heart of Italy” is in central Italy to the west of the Appenine Range of mountains.
In the mornings you will learn to cook authentic Italian Christmas dishes, taught by local people in a friendly and informal environment. At Christmas time, central Italy is known for its rich and traditional recipes such as “Cappalletti” (little hat) a pasta dish served in chicken broth and Christmas treats like “torciglione” - almond cake. After cooking these gastronomic delights you will then have the privilege of eating them yourself at lunch or dinner.
In the afternoons you will be free to act like a tourist and visit some of the wonderful cities and sites for which Umbria is renowned. Italy is strong on religious tradition and celebrates Christmas in grand style with festivals and magnificent illuminations in most of its cities.
An ideal base for your holiday is the ancient capital of the region, Perugia. It has a wonderful Christmas market for you to explore. You could try a little wine tasting in the local vineyard then visit a host of mystical cities. Assisi, on Mount Subasio is the birthplace of Saint Francis and Santa Chiara. It is a beautiful place, with stunning views and an ancient Church. Orvieto, known for its famous white wine and ceramics is another popular destination. Try a visit to Arezzo, famous for gold and it’s antiques fair which is supposed to be the best in Italy and for truly outstanding scenery in this region, there is Lake Trasimene, the largest lake in Italy which is fed from the River Tiber by a subterranean waterway built by the Romans. The list is almost endless and limited only by the length of your holiday.
An added bonus at this time of the year is the Umbrian Olive Harvest. You can observe this autumnal ritual which is so essential to Italian agriculture and the country’s culinary passion. After witnessing the morning harvest you can indulge in more food and wine on an olive farm.
After your Christmas Cookery Holiday in Umbria you should return home with a new found knowledge of Italian cuisine and Italian culture and perhaps a little extra weight!
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