How do Italians feel about Americanized Italian dishes?

Fardreamer

Fardreamer

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May 24, 2009
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How do Italians feel about Americanized Italian dishes?

As many non-Italians are well aware, here in the U.S. we eat a lot of foods labeled "Italian" food which are really Americanized versions of Italian dishes, including calzones, pizza and stromboli.

While I'm sure that there are plenty of authentic Italian dishes available in the States, I am also sure that lots of Italian foods sold here are not really Italian.

What do Italians think about Americanized versions of Italian food?
 
Unless they've had them, they may not know. I would guess they shake their heads because the American version of any foreign food is rarely close to the real thing.
 
I think Orrymain is right. I've had some experience with Europeans (although not Italians) trying what was labeled as their country's food here in the US, and many times they do shake their heads. It does depend on the restaurant though. If it's a place run by someone from Europe, then the dishes are close to original.
 
@ Orrymain, @Fardreamer: We should ask Americans the same question in reference to Italian dishes.

I would like to think Americanised version of Italian or Greek or Chinese food, for that matter should be a non-issue. And I say that for several reasons. I'll give you two:

1. Ingredients are generally local, meaning, an American making Italian pasta would use locally-made pasta from locally produced flour, which, if you have a keen tongue would taste different from Italian grown sources. (I know Washington apples taste different from Fuji apples).
2. Foreign dishes are adapted to local tastes. I love spaghetti but would usually enjoy and prefer a sweet-style blend. When I do want some spaghetti, I add some local spices and herbs to my sauce to make it suit my taste. I don't see anything wrong with that.
 
I'm going to hit this topic from the other side; I'm an American who prefers the Americanized versions of Italian food compared to "real" Italian food. After dining on Italian inspired fare from The Olive Garden, Pizza Hut, etc. my whole life, going to Italy and eating the "true" versions of the food was a real shock because they are so much blander than in the States!
 
amatigress said:
After dining on Italian inspired fare from The Olive Garden, Pizza Hut, etc. my whole life, going to Italy and eating the "true" versions of the food was a real shock because they are so much blander than in the States!
Click to expand...

Blander perhaps, Which style is more healthier?


Fresh ingredients have such a different taste.


A pizza cooked in a wood fired oven is just the best! (400°C)


I actually add extra spices to dishes that perhaps Italian would not. I guess it's all down to personal taste and what you are used to.
 
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