Milan Food Guide: Traditional foods in Milan
Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, is also a food lover's paradise. From traditional Italian dishes to international cuisine, Milan has something for everyone. The city is known for its risotto alla Milanese, a creamy saffron-flavored rice dish, and its famous panettone, a sweet bread served during the holidays. But there's so much more to discover in Milan's culinary scene.
What to eat in Milan, Italy
This is a list of the must have dishes in Milan. Ranked on best food score.
Cotoletta alla Milanese
This breaded veal cutlet is a Milanese classic. The meat is pounded thin, breaded, and fried until golden brown. It's traditionally served with a side of potatoes or salad. The dish is so popular in Milan that it has been awarded the IGP (Indicazione Geografica Protetta) status, which means it's a protected regional specialty.
Risotto alla Milanese
This creamy rice dish is a staple of Milanese cuisine. It's made with saffron, which gives it its distinctive yellow color and flavor. The rice is cooked slowly in a broth until it's creamy and flavorful. It's often served as a side dish to meat or fish, but it can also be enjoyed on its own.
Panettone
This sweet bread is a Milanese Christmas tradition. It's made with candied fruit, raisins, and a hint of orange zest. The dough is light and airy, and it's typically served with a glass of sweet wine or hot chocolate. Panettone is so popular in Milan that there's even a museum dedicated to it.
Ossobuco
This hearty meat dish is a Milanese favorite. It's made with veal shanks that are slow-cooked in a tomato-based sauce until the meat is falling off the bone. It's typically served with a side of risotto alla Milanese, which makes for a perfect combination.
Cassoeula
This hearty stew is a traditional Milanese dish. It's made with pork, cabbage, and beans, and it's typically served during the winter months. The dish has a rich and flavorful broth that's perfect for dipping bread into.
Ravioli di zucca
This stuffed pasta dish is a Milanese favorite. It's made with pumpkin, Parmesan cheese, and amaretti cookies, which give it a sweet and nutty flavor. The pasta is typically served with a butter and sage sauce, which complements the sweetness of the filling.
Polenta e Osei
This dessert is a Milanese specialty. It's made with a sweet polenta cake that's shaped like a bird's nest. The cake is filled with chocolate and almond paste, and it's topped with colorful marzipan birds. It's a fun and festive dessert that's perfect for special occasions.
Cassata
This Sicilian dessert has become a Milanese favorite. It's made with sponge cake, ricotta cheese, and candied fruit, and it's typically served during the holidays. The cake is moist and flavorful, and the ricotta filling is light and creamy.
Bresaola
This cured beef is a Milanese delicacy. It's made with lean beef that's seasoned with salt, pepper, and spices, and then air-dried for several months. The result is a tender and flavorful meat that's perfect for antipasti or as a sandwich filling.
Torta di Mele
This classic Italian apple cake is a staple of Milanese cuisine. It's made with fresh apples, cinnamon, and a buttery cake batter. The cake is moist and flavorful, and it's perfect for breakfast or as a dessert.
