The magic of autumn in Pavia’s cuisine: flavours and traditions of Oltrepò

With the arrival of autumn, the cuisine of Pavia is enriched with local products that celebrate the seasonal flavors. From polenta and mushrooms to pumpkin and much more, Oltrepò Pavese becomes an unmissable destination for lovers of fine cuisine and Italian food and wine traditions. Let’s discover the dishes and ingredients that make autumn in Pavia a unique experience for the palate.

Polenta is one of the iconic dishes of Pavia’s autumn cuisine. Served steaming hot, it is the perfect accompaniment to braised meats, wild boar, beef stews, or succulent salamelle sausages. This rustic and genuine dish represents the essence of Oltrepò’s culinary tradition, ideal for warming up chilly autumn days and bringing families together around the table.

The forests of Oltrepò Pavese, rich in biodiversity, offer prized mushrooms that take center stage in many autumn recipes. From creamy risottos to fragrant soups and grilled mushrooms drizzled with olive oil and garlic, each dish enhances the authentic flavor of the underwood. During autumn, local festivals provide the perfect opportunity to savor these delicacies.

Another typical ingredient of Pavia’s autumn is pumpkin, which lends itself to numerous preparations. In the traditional cuisine of Oltrepò, pumpkin shines in delicate ravioli, simply dressed with melted butter and sage to enhance its natural sweetness. But that’s not all: pumpkin is also perfect for creamy risottos, velvety soups, flans, and as a side dish for hearty meat dishes like duck or pork.

No discussion of Pavia’s cuisine would be complete without mentioning its renowned wines, the ideal companions for autumn flavors. Oltrepò Pavese is famous for its Pinot Noir, Barbera, and Bonarda varieties—wines with intense and enveloping character that pair wonderfully with the season’s dishes.

Experiencing autumn in Oltrepò Pavese means immersing yourself in a sensory journey that engages taste, smell, and sight. The scents of the underwood, the golden hues of the vineyards, and the authentic cuisine tell the story of a land that has preserved its culinary traditions. Each dish is a tribute to the territory, made with locally sourced ingredients and prepared according to recipes passed down through generations.

With its enchanting landscapes and rich autumnal cuisine, Oltrepò Pavese is the perfect destination for those seeking an authentic experience. Whether you want to stroll through the vineyards, forage for mushrooms in the woods, or savor traditional dishes in a cozy tavern, this land will captivate you with its beauty and unmistakable flavors.

Discover Oltrepò Pavese: a place where autumn is lived with the heart and savored with the palate!