Rome, the Eternal City, is a culinary treasure trove that comes alive with seasonal flavors during autumn. As the weather cools, the city’s vibrant food scene offers a host of hearty, comforting dishes that are perfect for the season. Here are five must-try Italian dishes in Rome that will make your autumn visit truly unforgettable.
Quick Summary:
- Cacio e Pepe: Classic pasta dish with a creamy, peppery sauce.
- Porchetta: Savory roast pork, seasoned with herbs.
- Carciofi alla Romana: Roman-style artichokes, tender and flavorful.
- Fettuccine ai Funghi: Fresh pasta with a rich mushroom sauce.
- Supplì: Fried rice balls filled with mozzarella.
Cacio e Pepe: A Classic Roman Pasta Dish
Cacio e Pepe is one of Rome’s most iconic dishes, known for its simplicity and rich flavor. This pasta dish, made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper, is a must-try for any visitor.
Ingredients:
- Pasta: Typically spaghetti or tonnarelli.
- Pecorino Romano: A sharp, salty sheep’s milk cheese.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground for maximum flavor.
Where to Try:
- Roscioli: Famous for its traditional Cacio e Pepe.
- Felice a Testaccio: Renowned for its creamy and perfectly seasoned version.
Benefits:
- Simple yet deeply flavorful.
- Highlights the quality of local ingredients.
- A quintessential Roman culinary experience.
Porchetta: Savory Roast Pork
Porchetta is a traditional Italian dish featuring a whole pig, deboned and roasted with a mix of herbs and spices until the meat is tender and the skin is crispy.
Ingredients:
- Pork: Traditionally a whole pig, but often a pork shoulder or loin.
- Herbs and Spices: Rosemary, fennel, garlic, and black pepper.
Where to Try:
- Er Buchetto: A small, famous spot known for its succulent porchetta sandwiches.
- La Paninoteca: Offers a variety of porchetta-based dishes.
Benefits:
- Rich, savory flavor with aromatic herbs.
- Versatile: can be enjoyed in sandwiches or as a main dish.
- A hearty and filling meal, perfect for autumn.
Carciofi alla Romana: Roman-Style Artichokes
Carciofi alla Romana, or Roman-style artichokes, are a beloved dish in Rome, especially during autumn when artichokes are in season. These artichokes are cooked until tender in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
- Artichokes: Typically the Romanesco variety.
- Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin.
- Herbs: Mint, parsley, and garlic.
Where to Try:
- Da Enzo al 29: Famous for its expertly prepared Carciofi alla Romana.
- Armando al Pantheon: A classic Roman trattoria serving authentic versions of the dish.
Benefits:
- Healthy and nutritious.
- Bursting with fresh, herby flavors.
- Perfect as a starter or side dish.
Fettuccine ai Funghi: Fresh Pasta with Mushroom Sauce
Fettuccine ai Funghi is a comforting and flavorful dish that showcases the earthy flavors of autumn mushrooms paired with fresh pasta. It’s a seasonal favorite that offers a taste of Rome’s rich culinary heritage.
Ingredients:
- Fettuccine: Fresh, egg-based pasta.
- Mushrooms: Porcini, chanterelles, or other seasonal varieties.
- Garlic and Parsley: For additional flavor and aroma.
Where to Try:
- Trattoria Monti: Known for its delicious pasta dishes, including Fettuccine ai Funghi.
- Flavio al Velavevodetto: Offers a variety of pasta dishes with seasonal ingredients.
Benefits:
- Rich, earthy flavors from the mushrooms.
- Comforting and satisfying.
- Highlights seasonal produce.
Supplì: Fried Rice Balls Filled with Mozzarella
Supplì are a popular Roman street food, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. These fried rice balls are filled with mozzarella, creating a deliciously gooey center when bitten into.
Ingredients:
- Rice: Typically risotto rice, cooked and flavored with tomato sauce.
- Mozzarella: Fresh and melty.
- Breadcrumbs: For a crispy outer coating.
Where to Try:
- Supplizio: A famous spot dedicated to perfecting the art of supplì.
- La Casa del Supplì: Known for its wide variety of flavors and fillings.
Benefits:
- Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside.
- Portable and perfect for eating on the go.
- A delicious example of Roman street food.
Final Thoughts
Exploring Rome’s culinary landscape during autumn is a feast for the senses. From the simplicity of Cacio e Pepe to the hearty flavors of Porchetta, the tender Carciofi alla Romana, the rich Fettuccine ai Funghi, and the irresistible Supplì, these must-try dishes offer a perfect blend of tradition and seasonal flavors. Whether dining in a rustic trattoria or grabbing a quick bite from a street vendor, these dishes will make your autumn visit to Rome a delicious and memorable experience.