Just in time for the Thanksgiving weekend, here are four basic and healthy food items — that are never ever missed from an Italian meal in autumn [autunno] and early winter [inverno]. These four foods are at the center of many festivals going on all over the country right now.
Uvas
Mushrooms [funghi] are the Autumn specialties by definition. They are made of 95% water and are free of fat, so they have very few calories. They also provide potassium, phosphorus, and fibers. There are hundreds of recipes based on funghi.
The grape [uva]. Known since antiquity for its cleansing and restorative properties, is filled with vitamin P, tannins, and anthocyanins. Low in calories and almost no fat. There are many popular events for uva.
Chestnut [castagna]. You cannot think of autumn without chestnut, and it is a pretty serious (traditional) business in Italy. It is quite high calorie but castagna is super rich in starches, potassium, phosphorus, sulfur, magnesium, chlorine, calcium , iron, sodium, and vitamins C, B1, B2, PP.
Caco
Fennel [finocchio] has digestive and purifying effects and contains some phytoestrogens, flavonoids, which help the vascular system. Great for weight loss: virtually no calories and tons of fibre plus it’s tasty and filling.
The persimmon [caco]. Once considered a food of the gods, is rich in vitamin A, potassium, calcium. In addition, the persimmons help restore proper liver function — so it may be good for hangovers… Enjoy!
