Food and Wine
From the Natisone river to the woods
Where Valley Meets Forest: The food heritage of Natisone and Torre from the valleys to the woodlands
The local cuisine of the Natisone and Torre valleys isn’t just delicious – it’s also a precious part of the region’s cultural heritage. Each dish tells a story, speaking of rural life, respect for nature, and the close bonds between people.
The Natisone and Torre Valleys: A Heritage of Flavour
Historically, the inhabitants of the Natisone and Torre Valleys have always sustained themselves primarily on homegrown food. The diversity of their crops and livestock ensured a rich and flavourful diet, enhanced by wild products foraged from the woods. This tradition has been passed down from generation to generation, forming the unique culinary heritage that characterizes these areas. Today, the Natisone and Torre valleys face modern challenges that also influence local cooking. However, many inhabitants remain deeply aware of the importance of preserving traditional home food production and ancient recipes. With great dedication, they strive to bring their ancestors’ flavours into the present. The local cuisine of the Natisone and Torre valleys isn’t just delicious – it’s also a precious part of the region’s cultural heritage. Each dish tells a story, speaking of rural life, respect for nature, and the close bonds between people.
The Delicacies of the Natisone and Torre Valleys: From Bizna to Seuka
Where the Natisone and Torre Valleys meet, a culinary adventure awaits. Here, nestled between green hills and azure skies, lies a wealth of natural resources that is reflected in the local cuisine. Among the best-known dishes are bizna, a turnip and potato stew; stakanje, mashed potatoes with seasonal vegetables; žličnjaki, small flour dumplings; various soups (with corn, pumpkin and chestnuts); and game cooked under embers. Beyond these traditional dishes, you’ll be enchanted by local dairy products, dried fruits, and wild herbs that add a special touch to every meal. Not to be forgotten are the prestigious protected designation wines, which pair perfectly with local specialities. For a sweet finish, try the chestnuts, delicious honey, and apples of the native Seuka variety, protected by the Slow Food movement.
A Sweet Legacy of the Natisone Valleys: The Story of Gubana
Deep in the Natisone Valleys, you’ll find a treasured sweet that has graced holiday tables for hundreds of years. Made with locally sourced ingredients, gubana is more than just a dessert – it’s a celebration of family, hospitality, and centuries-old tradition. While the valleys are renowned for this spiral-shaped pastry, they’re also home to štruklji, delicious filled rolls that share gubana’s rich heritage. Whether boiled, fried, or baked, these rolls – often stuffed with fresh ricotta – each offer their own distinct character and flavour.
