When asked about traditional Italian food, many will begin with the olive oil, pasta, cheese and ham. Traditional Italian foods are kept alive by few dedicated food artisans that have made their life’s objective to promote and produce these foods, and carry on their unique method of preparation. Pecorino cheese is a fitting example: this Italian hard cheese made of ewe’s milk represents Italian food at its finest. All the four varieties of pecorino are protected under the PDO status, which indicates that their origin is protected, and the “pecorino” name cannot be given to any similar cheese made outside four Italian regions. Balsamic Vinegar from the city of Modena gains a rightful place in this list, for it obtains its distinctive flavor after aging in wooden casks for a minimum of 12 years. And pasta, as well, comes in many shapes and sizes. The most notable traditions concern the fresh homemade egg pasta that have to be produced following strict methods, passed down through time. And time is indeed a key variable of tradition. It is not by chance that Italy is the leader of the Slow Food movement. Discover lots of stories, video, recipes and many more information about traditional Italian food. Discover lots of stories, video, recipes and many more information about traditional Italian food.