Italian Foods — Natural Flour, Local Cheese and Cinnamon
Do you love natural food? In the Alps, when you see this explosion of pristine nature, you also fall in love with the food you eat. And even the taste of foods produced here are really different
The idea of this long trip was to see marmots in the valley I still did not visit. The place had an intriguing name: Marmot Meadow (Prato delle Marmotte near Rhemes-Notre-Dame in Valle d’Aosta). And I decided they are numerous in that valley.
I had to go there urgently if I wanted to see the marmots because, they say, they don't show up when it gets too hot. You can only see them very early, as the sun rises. I have a house full of cats and can't make long trips, so I always try to organize myself for the time I can afford to see as much as possible.
The journey to Marmot Meadow was nothing short of breathtaking. As I traversed the winding roads, the majestic Alps loomed in the distance, painting a picture of unspoiled beauty. The allure of the valley was not just in its promise of marmot sightings, but also in the anticipation of savoring the local culinary delights.
The early morning drive was invigorating, as the crisp mountain air filled my lungs, heightening my excitement for the day ahead.
Despite the distance, this trip was a welcomed escape, an opportunity to immerse me in the wonders of nature and relish in the flavors of the region. As I ventured towards Marmot Meadow, I couldn't help but look forward to sampling the exquisite local produce and indulging in the renowned apple juice from the beloved nearby producer.
This adventure was not just about the destination, but a chance to create timeless memories amidst the natural splendor of the Alps, and to savor the unique tastes that only this pristine region could offer.
It's a three-hour drive from my house and I dreamed of eating Polenta Valdostana and visiting the Château d'Introd which I haven't seen yet. And… there is my favourite shop of the local apple juice producer, too.
I arrived in Thumel (it’s the name of the village) at 9:00 am. Since I was intending to eat there, I went first to ask if it will be possible and, if the answer is positive, reserve a place for me.
I always recommend doing it if you intend to eat in small restaurants for two reasons: they are not always open, and sometimes they cook little because they don't expect large turnouts. Another very important tip is to always have cash because sometimes you can't pay by card: there's no internet, the device doesn't work or who knows what else.
I have to say that usually, the foods have really excellent taste in those valleys. That taste was still there when we were tiny children but unfortunately, we have long forgotten it.
Even if many times the dish is the same, the ingredients are different and the same ones have different tastes in each place. I have tasted “polenta concia” (I think it’s the same “species” here) practically everywhere. And I must say that the best is undoubtedly the one from Oropa and in second place is this one.
