Sicily is a breathtaking island at the southern tip of Italy and it’s famous for many things, including its authentic vineyards, charming villages and delicious cuisine. This Mediterranean island is a culinary haven that encapsulates a rich variety of flavours. With influences ranging from Greek to French and Spanish, Sicilian food is a fascinating blend that offers something unique for every taste palate. 

 

While mainland Italian cuisine is often characterised by its regional varieties, Sicilian food stands out. Below we explored the treasures that define Sicilian cuisine and how it differs from the foods commonly found on the Italian mainland.

 

The Location of Sicily and its Influence on Cuisine 

 

Sicily’s unique geographical location has greatly influenced its cuisine. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, seafood naturally plays a big role in the local diet. Additionally, the island’s fertile lands provide an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as herbs. Olive trees and vineyards are common sights too, shaping the island’s agricultural landscape.

 

How Sicilian Food Differs from Mainland Italian Cuisine

 

At Giovanni’s, we serve the best Italian dishes with a Sicilian flair. Our small, family-run restaurant enables people in London to experience recipes that have been cherished for centuries and handed down through generations.  

 

When compared to mainland Italian cuisine, Sicilian food has its unique benefits and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular both here in London and on the Mediterranean island. 

• Spotlight on Seafood 

 

Lots of regions in mainland Italy are well-known for meats, pasta and cheeses. While these foods are still commonplace in Sicily and they make up a large portion of menus at local restaurants, the island’s cuisine places an emphasis on seafood. 

 

Dishes like Pappadelle Al Tonno Vendicari, which is flat ribbon pasta with Sicilian tuna, combine the best of mainland Italian food with the best of Sicilian food. Fish dishes like sea bass fillets, swordfish steak and grilled king prawns also showcase the plentiful, fresh produce from the surrounding Mediterranean waters.

• Spice and Flavour Profiles

 

Sicilian food tends to be more vibrant and robust in flavours when compared to mainland dishes, courtesy of its multicultural history. Spices, nuts and even dried fruits make frequent appearances in dishes due to Arabic influences. Mainland Italian food often leans towards simpler seasonings like garlic and aromatic herbs like basil or oregano.

 

At Giovanni’s every small detail is important to us and impacts the overall taste of the dishes we create. For instance, even the salt shakers put on our tables contain salt from the sea in Sicily to ensure it’s not just flavoursome, but also high in minerals.

• Carbohydrates

 

Carbohydrates like bread and pasta are a staple across Italy. However, Sicilian varieties often include regional flairs. Bread, for instance, is often infused with local herbs or topped with sesame seeds for added flavour and intrigue. 

 

Pasta might be universally popular throughout Italy, but every region has its own unique shapes and types, and Sicily is known for shapes like Casarecce. Rice also plays a significant role in Sicilian cooking, mostly because of the popular and now world-renowned Arancini. These deep-fried rice balls are commonly stuffed with cheese, meat or vegetables. 

 

Enjoy Sicilian Food in London at Giovanni’s

 

Discover the culinary treasures of Sicily at Giovanni’s. The island really does offer a fascinating blend of flavours and ingredients, drawing from rich historical influences. While it shares some similarities with mainland Italian food, like the love for good-quality, fresh ingredients, Sicilian cuisine stands out for its bold flavours and unique dishes. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a curious beginner, Sicilian food offers an enriching experience that captivates the senses.

 

If you want to try Sicilian food in London, you can book a table at Giovanni’s online today. Our cosy Italian restaurant is tucked away in a historic alleyway in Covent Garden away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. We offer a diverse menu that features recipes which have been cherished by generations and all dishes are served with a warm Sicilian charm.

 

We look forward to welcoming you to Giovanni’s.