Milan is a huge city that boasts of the largest and most populated metropolitan region in the whole of Italy. It holds a commanding location in mainland Italy; therefore, it is no surprise that it is one of the most prosperous regions in the country. Despite troubles during the Second World War, the city has bounced back to become one of the wealthiest in Europe. Today, it is a lodestone for tourists from all parts of the world, boasting of several monuments, beautiful architecture, modern buildings, and quintessential Italian life. And if you love tasting some of the best local cuisines that this part of the world has to offer, this city has mouthwatering options for you. Here are some of the best street food you must try in Milan, Italy.
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1. Piadina (Italian flatbread)
Piadina has a strong resemblance to a quesadilla. However, this thin, flaky Italian flatbread is quite different in some ways. For one, it comes with a thicker body than a tortilla. Despite the fuller body, it is very light and offers a crispy experience. It is usually prepared on an electric grill. Enjoy its authentic taste in Milan, where piadina is stuffed full of meats, vegetables, and cheese. It can be found all over the region and it is definitely something you cannot miss on your visit.
2. Sgabeo (leavened bread with fillings)
Sgabeo is an Italian food typical of the Lunigiana region of Italy. However, you can find it as one of the street foods in Milan’s restaurants. It is leavened bread dough that is cut into several strips, then fried and salted. It is an enjoyable food that can be enjoyed as is or with cheese to add some flavor. It is also savored with cold cuts. Another popular way to enjoy sgabeo is as a sweet treat. In this case, it is filled, either with pastry cream or chocolate, which will offer an unforgettable experience for your palate.
3. Roast chicken
Milan is home to some of the best chicken recipes you will ever taste. The roast chicken found here is sweet and tender–possibly the best you will ever eat. It is one of the most natural recipes to make for dinner. The seasonings used for Italian roast chicken are quite simple. It is usually seasoned with garlic, olive oil, paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, oregano, and, of course, salt. It comes as crispy, flavor-rich meat and the aroma will awaken your salivary glands. As street food in Milan, it is served with a side dish of pasta; however, you can opt to eat it on its own.
4. Fish and chips
Fish and chips is a popular dish served on the streets of the city. It consists of fried fish in batter and then served with chips. It is prepared and cooked using a variety of vegetable oils – including palm oil, although beef dripping is sometimes employed as well. Various types of fish are used, including cod, Pollock, ray, rock salmon, and others. You can enjoy this food with different accompaniments like vinegar, peas, lemons, and so on.
5. Panzerotti (Italian deep-fried pizza)
Italian pizza is immensely popular and is arguably the leading type of Italian street food. There has been a recent addition to this Italian street food and it is best described as a folded piece of pizza. However, instead of being baked, it is fried. Traditionally, panzerotti is made with a little pizza dough stuffed with tomato sauce and mozzarella. It is steadily growing in popularity and can be found in many restaurants in Milan. Furthermore, more restaurants are adding pizza toppings to improve the flavor. It is small in size and is a worthy and delicious addition to your street foods exploration.
6. Risotto alla Milanese (rice dish)
Unknown to many folks, Italy is the biggest producer of rice in all of Europe. Thus, it might be especially surprising that one of the best, most popular, and most traditional Italian dishes is risotto alla Milanese. It consists of rice, saffron (which is responsible for the yellow color and distinct flavor), wine, olive oil, and butter. To add taste to the dish, cheese and bone marrow are added which enhance the creaminess.
7. Michetta (Milanese bread)
Michetta is a traditional Milanese bread. It is a stuffed bread and is widely regarded as one of the best street foods to try. Crispy on the outside, super crumbly, and soft on the inside, it is absolutely tantalizing. It is interesting to note that the michetta is a Milanese take on the Kaiser roll. Hence, the recipe for michetta had to be adjusted to provide a bread that lasts longer. You will enjoy every bite of it.
8. Puccia (dough with savory fillings)
Many street foods in Milan are made from pizza dough and puccia is no exception. It is a stuffed bun made of pizza dough. It is filled with a rather wide variety of vegetables – including tomatoes, zucchini, wild chicory, and aubergines. It can also be stuffed with cheese, peppers, meat or ham, fries, and salad. Many restaurants offer you several other toppings that will enhance your experience so get ready for some creative takes on this Milanese classic.
9. Friselle (ring-shaped bread)
Friselle is a regional specialty from the south of Italy. It is made of whole-grain barley and durum flour. These ring-shaped bread that is baked twice goes by several names, but its pleasant taste and flavor remain constant. It’s served with a wide variety of toppings, including olive oil, tomatoes, capers, feta cheese, oregano, and red onions. When served, you might not think much of this food but it is one of the best foods to eat in hot weather and serves as a light, yet delicious snack. It is crunchy and filling.
10. Arepas (corn flour with fillings)
Arepas is a staple food found on the streets of Milan, though it is not of Italian origin. It is made from special precooked corn flour. It is a portion of delicious food that leaves a surprisingly impressive taste. The outside is very crunchy, while the center is soft and creamy. It tastes like tortillas, although it has a milder corn flavor. It is best served with beans or juices of cooked meat. Some restaurants serve it with butter or cream cheese. This food can either be deep-fried or grilled and some restaurants prefer to prepare it with other grains like quinoa.
Enjoy delicious Milanese cuisine
The culinary scene in Milan is sure to keep any eater’s taste buds occupied and delighted. Milan’s streets boast of food created by world-class chefs from all around the country and Europe. Hence, you are sure to enjoy some of the best meals in the country in this beautiful city. Visit with family or friends and have a culinary experience you will never forget.
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