If you’re looking for a taste of Italy, Palermo is the place to be. This historic city on the island of Sicily is home to some of the country’s most delicious dishes. Here are 11 popular dishes you’ll want to try when you visit Palermo.
1. Arancini
Arancini are a type of fried rice ball that originates from the city of Palermo in Sicily, Italy. They are traditionally made with risotto rice and a filling of meat or cheese, then breaded and deep-fried.
Arancini are popular street food in Palermo and can be found at most cafes and restaurants. They make a great appetizer or snack, and can also be served as a main course. If you’re visiting Palermo, be sure to try these delicious fried rice balls!
2. Panelle
If you’re looking for delicious and unique food to try during your visit to Palermo, be sure to check out panelle. This popular Sicilian dish is made with chickpea flour, water, and olive oil, and it is usually fried in large rectangular sheets.
Once it is cooked, the panelle is cut into small pieces and served as a snack or appetizer. It can also be eaten as a main course, served with a salad or other side dishes. No matter how you enjoy it, panelle is a must-try food when you’re in Palermo!
3. Couscous
Couscous is a delicious dish that originates from the city of Palermo, in Sicily. The dish is made from semolina flour, which is steamed and then formed into small beads.
Couscous can be served with a variety of different sauces and vegetables, making it a versatile and healthy option for any meal. If you’re looking for something new to try while in Palermo, be sure to sample some couscous!
4. Pane con le panelle
Pane con le panelle is a popular dish from Palermo, Sicily. It consists of fried chickpea fritters served on a piece of bread.
The fritters are made from a batter of chickpea flour, water, and salt, and they are usually served with a sprinkle of lemon juice and a dash of chili pepper. Pane con le panelle is best enjoyed hot and fresh, so be sure to try it while you’re in Palermo!
5. Sfincione
Sfincione is a type of Sicilian pizza that is popular in Palermo. It is made with a thick, spongy dough and topped with a variety of toppings, including tomatoes, onions, anchovies, and olives.
The dough is usually flavored with garlic and herbs, and the pizza is typically served warm. Sfincione is best enjoyed with a glass of red wine, and it can be found at most restaurants in Palermo.
If you’re looking for a unique food to try while in Sicily, be sure to give sfincione a try.
6. Pizza
Palermo is known for its pizza and there are many popular places to try it. La Notizia is one of the most famous spots and has been voted the best pizzeria in Italy.
The secret to their success is the wood-fired oven which gives the pizza a unique flavor. Another popular place is Pizzeria Cracco which is known for its creative toppings.
If you’re looking for something truly unique, then be sure to try Pizzeria Starita. They offer a wide range of pizzas, including some with unusual toppings like truffles and foie gras.
With so many delicious options, it’s no wonder pizza is one of the most popular foods to try in Palermo!
7. Pasta alla norma
Palermo is home to a rich and vibrant food culture, with a wide variety of dishes to suit every taste. One of the most popular dishes in the city is pasta alla norma, a hearty pasta dish made with tomatoes, eggplant, and Ricotta Salata cheese.
The dish is named after the Sicily opera Norma, and it is said to be one of the favorite foods of the opera’s composer, Vincenzo Bellini. While it may not be the most glamorous of dishes, it is absolutely delicious, and it is sure to leave you feeling satisfied.
So if you’re looking for a true taste of Palermo, be sure to try pasta alla norma.
8. Caponata
Caponata is a popular Sicilian dish that typically includes eggplant, tomatoes, onions, celery, olives, capers, and vinegar. It can be served as a side dish or appetizer, or even as a main course.
The dish is believed to have originated in the 17th century, and it has since become a staple of Sicilian cuisine. Caponata is typically served at room temperature or chilled, making it an ideal summertime dish.
If you’re ever in Palermo, be sure to try this delicious and unique dish.
9. Spaghetti con le sarde
If you’re looking for a delicious and authentic dish to try during your stay in Palermo, then look no further than spaghetti con le sarde. This popular pasta dish is made with fresh sardines, fennel, and raisins, and it is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
While the ingredients may sound unusual, they come together to create a truly unique and flavorful dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not add a pinch of chili pepper to your spaghetti con le sarde for an extra kick? Bon appetit!
10. Baked Pasta
One of the best things about Palermo is the food. The city is bursting with bakeries, cafes, and restaurants, all serving up delicious Sicilian specialties.
And one of the most popular dishes is baked pasta. This hearty dish is typically made with short pasta shapes like rigatoni or penne, as well as a variety of meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
While there are many different versions of baked pasta, one of the most iconic is la norma, which features eggplant, tomato sauce, and ricotta cheese. Other popular varieties include carbonara, amatriciana, and cacio e pepe.
So if you’re looking for a tasty way to experience Palermo’s food culture, be sure to try some baked pasta. You won’t be disappointed.
11. Cannolo (Sicilian Desserts)
If you’re looking for a delicious sweet treat to enjoy in Palermo, you’ll definitely want to try the popular Sicilian dessert known as cannolo. This traditional pastry is made from a crispy pastry shell that’s filled with sweetened ricotta cheese, and it’s often garnished with chocolate chips or candied fruit.
Cannolo is generally served as a small, individual-sized dessert, but it’s also not uncommon to find larger versions that can be shared among friends. No matter how you enjoy it, cannolo is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
In conclusion
So there you have it, 11 popular dishes to try during your stay in Palermo. From pizza and pasta to cannoli and caponata, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So what are you waiting for? Head to Palermo and start exploring the city’s delicious food culture today!
