Italian cuisine - Italy is a country well-loved for everything luxury. Whether you're looking for the most expensive designer brands or the most lavish cars, you're most likely to find an Italian brand. But did you know that Italy's expensive taste also extends to its cuisine? That's right, Italy has one of the richest culinary repertoires in the world!

If you love the classic Filipino spaghetti or the delicious white sauce carbonara, we highly suggest taking a deep dive into Italy's best dishes.

In this article, we embark on a delectable journey through the flavors of Italy, exploring the origins, essence, and regional variations that make this cuisine exceptional.

Read more: Discovering 5 Delightful Hotels with Luxurious Bathtubs in Manila

Italy owes its rich cuisine to its extensive history. Influenced by diverse civilizations, including the Etruscans, Greeks, and Romans, Italy's distinct taste is an amalgamation of blending flavors, techniques, and ingredients.

The Romans introduced staples like bread, wine, and olive oil, while the Arab conquests brought exotic spices such as saffron and cinnamon. The Renaissance period witnessed a revival of gastronomy and focused on creating harmonious dishes that celebrated natural flavors and ingredients. Over time, Italian cuisine evolved into a symbol of cultural identity, representing the nation's deep-rooted traditions and regional diversity.

Some of the most common ingredients in Italian dishes are often fresh harvests from each region. Italians value the natural and organic preparation of dishes.

1. Spaghetti

Although flavored a little differently, there is no dyeing that the Filipino rendition of Spaghetti a la bolognese or Marinara pasta is among the most popular dishes in the Philippines. We dare even say that no Filipino birthday party is complete without it!

The traditional way of preparing traditional Italian tomato sauce pasta involves homemade tomato sauce (marinara sauce), basil leaves, and meat. But the local version of spaghetti involves hotdogs, carrots, banana ketchup, and a lot of sugar!

2. Pizza

Filipino taste buds have embraced pizza wholeheartedly, with local pizzerias offering a wide range of toppings, from classic Margherita to unconventional combinations like sisig or adobo pizza.

Traditional Italian pizzerias serve Pizza Margherita, topped with cheese, tomato sauce, and fresh basil leaves. Don’t let Italians know that pineapples on pizza are widely accepted (and loved) here in the Philippines!

3. Carbonara

Creamy pasta with eggs, cheese, and pancetta or bacon has become a Filipino favorite, often enjoyed with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Recent local renditions of this pasta dish involve all-purpose cream, sweet ham (sometimes tun,) and white cheese!

4. Tiramisu

This beloved Italian dessert made with ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and coffee has become a staple in many Filipino celebrations, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and bitterness.

Although not a lot of Filipinos know how to prepare this iconic dish, we can often see this dessert as a flavor in our favorite tub of local ice cream.

Italian cuisine is a timeless and enchanting journey for your taste buds. From the savory simplicity of a perfectly crafted pizza to the delicate flavors of homemade pasta, Italy's culinary heritage is a true masterpiece. It's a cuisine that celebrates not only food but also the culture, tradition, and passion of the Italian people.

Now, if you're eager to embark on a gastronomic adventure through the heart of Italy, there's no better time than now to start planning your trip. To make your travel experience even more enjoyable, convenient, and affordable, we highly recommend booking your hotel and flight through Traveloka. With its easy-to-use platform, competitive prices, and extensive options, Traveloka ensures that your journey to Italy is as delightful as the dishes you'll savor.

So, don't wait any longer. Start your Italian culinary odyssey and secure the best deals on accommodations and flights with Traveloka. Your palate and your wanderlust will thank you. Buon appetito, and safe travels!