Palermo, Italy

Palermo, the capital city of Sicily, is a food lover’s paradise with a rich culinary heritage influenced by Arab, Greek, Spanish, and Norman cultures. Here are some must-try dishes and specialties when visiting Palermo:

1. Arancini: These delicious deep-fried rice balls are typically stuffed with ragù (meat sauce), mozzarella, and peas. They come in various flavors and are a popular street food snack.
2. Panelle: Made from chickpea flour, panelle are crispy fritters that are often served in a sandwich called “pane con panelle.” Add a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra tangy flavor.
3. Sfincione: A thick and fluffy Sicilian-style pizza topped with tomato sauce, onions, anchovies, breadcrumbs, and sometimes caciocavallo cheese. It’s a delightful street food option.
4. Pasta alla Norma: This classic Sicilian pasta dish features rigatoni or spaghetti tossed in tomato sauce with fried eggplant, ricotta salata (salted ricotta cheese), and fresh basil.
5. Cannoli: Indulge in these sweet treats consisting of crispy, tube-shaped shells filled with a creamy ricotta cheese filling. They are often garnished with candied fruit or chocolate chips.
6. Caponata: A flavorful Sicilian vegetable dish made with eggplant, tomatoes, onions, capers, olives, and celery, all simmered in a sweet and sour sauce. It can be enjoyed as a side dish or as a topping for bread.
7. Cassata Siciliana: A traditional Sicilian dessert made with sponge cake soaked in liqueur, layered with sweet ricotta filling, and decorated with marzipan, candied fruit, and icing sugar. It’s a true delight for those with a sweet tooth.
8. Granita: Cool down with a refreshing granita, a semi-frozen dessert made with flavored crushed ice. The classic flavors include lemon, almond, coffee, and mulberry. Enjoy it with a brioche bun for a traditional breakfast.
9. Sarde a Beccafico: Stuffed sardines are a popular Sicilian dish. The sardines are filled with a mixture of breadcrumbs, pine nuts, raisins, garlic, and parsley before being baked or fried to perfection.
10. Gelato: End your culinary journey with a scoop (or two) of Sicilian gelato. Look for local gelaterias offering a variety of flavors, including traditional favorites like pistachio, almond, and chocolate.

It is worth taking advantage of the culinary tours offered by Mr Shuttle!