Discover the True Flavour of Tuscany

Feb
2013
08

posted by on Recipes

 
Florentine T-bone steak Tuscany Italy tasting tours

The traditional Florentine T-Bone Steak

Undoubtedly one of the most famous and delicious dishes from Tuscany is the Florentine steak, or bistecca alla fiorentina. This legendary Florentine steak recipe requires strict preparation to ensure it’s done in the correct Florentine way, and it’s a dish that is definitely not for the vegetarians among you!

Legend has it that in the 13th century, a group of English merchants stopped in Florence and asked for one of the juicy ‘beef steaks’ that they saw being roasted one of the town squares. It is said that from then on, the name bistecca was used for this typical Florentine speciality. But what exactly is so special about the Florentine steak, which was enjoyed by many in the past, and continues to be incredibly popular today?

There are several ‘rules’ that must be adhered to when preparing this special steak. Firstly, the meat needs to be from Chianina or Maremma cattle- Tuscan origin is absolutely essential! It must also be about 12 or 18 months old, and of course, cut from the short loin to produce a T-shaped bone with meat on each side.

As well as the background of the beef, the cooking process is also strict. The steak is usually between 4 and 6 centimetres thick, and is grilled over wood or charcoal. Cooking time can vary slightly, but the norm tends to be around 5 minutes on one side, before flipping it over for another 5 minutes on the other. It should only be flipped once, and no seasoning should be added until the very end of the process. Olive oil can be used when the meat has been completely removed from the fire. This particular method of cooking the steak results in a hot, well browned crust on the outside, and a tender , juicy steak inside. And if you aren’t a fan of rare steak, then this may not be the dish for you!

And what goes perfectly with this incredible dish? As well as a portion of tasty cannellini beans, a delicious wine is essential. As this steak is traditionally enjoyed by many inhabitants of the Chianti region and the meat often comes from here, it makes sense to pick up a nice bottle of Chianti Classico to accompany your meat feast. Or why not try a Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano or even a super tasty Super Tuscan wine?

We have a selection of great food and wine tours in Florence and the Tuscany region, including a wine tasting and traditional dinner experience in Chianti. After enjoying the wonders of the beautiful Chianti countryside and exploring several castles, you have the opportunity to take part in some Chianti Classico wine tasting and of course, try a great big, juicy Florentine Steak. Is your mouth watering yet?!

Photo by www.food.com

Tags: , , ,

Comments are closed.

61 queries in 0.451 seconds.