Many dishes seen as staples would not be found if you were to travel to Italy. The following items are not found at a restaurant serving in the true Italian tradition.
Spaghetti and Meatballs
You can find both spaghetti and meatballs on the menu in Italy, just not together. Meatballs in the native land are much smaller than you would find here in the United States and they seldom swim in red gravy, as the locals call the sauce. If you are craving something similar, you should try fettuccini Bolognese. This dish is very similar to spaghetti with meat sauce as the Bolognese is a red gravy meat sauce, which is commonly found in traditional establishments. Made with ground sirloin and roasted plum tomatoes it will satisfy your desire.
Chicken Parmesan
It might seem odd, but the breaded cheese covered chicken dish is not traditional fare in Italy. In actuality, many natives would find this dish an abomination as they seldom add large quantities of cheese to chicken. If you are really craving chicken at your next Italian restaurant visit, choose a pan seared chicken dish. Not only is it healthier than smothering the breast in bread and cheese, but it is also more authentic.
If you absolutely must have something that is covered with cheese and sauce, choose the melanzane alla parmigiana, better known as eggplant parmesan.
Lobster fra'Diavolo
If you crave heavy, spicy foods, the Lobster fra'Diavolo is probably one of your favorite dishes. However, it is not something you would find on a menu at an authentic Italian restaurant. Native cooks don't make their meals that heavy and they seldom make them overly spicy. If you are looking for a substitute, many dishes combine pasta and seafood. Pappardelle combines shrimp, sea scallops, and pasta. If you want something with a little spice, choose the Campanelle Buttera, which has hot Italian sausage and red pepper flakes.
Penne alla Vodka
This dish's true origins are unknown. A few experts say it was a popular fare in Italy in the 1970s; however, it didn't get its start in the old country. Vodka, for starters, isn't a native drink to the area. In addition, finding a cream based sauce is difficult to do in Italy. The dish also makes little sense to culinary experts, as the vodka taste burns off with the alcohol as it cooks.
An Italian restaurant in the United States is likely going to cater to what people here want most. Those seeking the authentic will avoid the aforementioned dishes as well as other popular meals. Dishes such as fettuccini alfredo are not common in the old country because of the cream in the sauce. Another staple, garlic bread, is also unheard of. Natives will tell you that they don't slather their bread in butter; instead they dip it in tasty olive oil.
From To:EzineArticles.com
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