Discovering the gastronomy of Villa Basilica: traditions and unique flavors

Villa Basilica, located in the heart of the province of Lucca, is a place that captivates not only with its culture and landscapes but also with its centuries-old culinary traditions. Who decide to immerse themselves in the local culture will find authentic cuisine, rich in typical ingredients and preparations that tell the story of this small yet fascinating municipality. Among the main protagonists of Villa Basilica’s gastronomy are torta coi becchi, salviato, and chestnut flour. Each of these products tells a part of the identity and history of this land.

The torta coi becchi

The torta coi becchi is undoubtedly one of the most representative dishes of Villa Basilica. It stands out for its rustic preparation and unique flavor. The recipe calls for simple ingredients, that combine sweet and savory flavors. The base is made of layer, while the top is decorated with triangles of puff pastry. Its name comes from the particular shape it takes during baking, with a raised edge resembling “becchi” (beaks), a detail that makes it immediately recognizable.

The salviato

Another key feature of Villa Basilica’s cuisine is the salviato, a savory pie made with potatoes, eggs, parsley, pecorino cheese, and spices. It has a very inviting appearance due to its color and the fork-worked dough, as well as an enticing aroma from the use of particularly fragrant ingredients like parsley and thyme.
What makes the salviato unique is the use of white-fleshed potatoes, which have a milder flavor compared to yellow-fleshed potatoes. The best time to taste it is during the potato harvest, which takes place from August onwards.

The chestnut flour

The chestnut flour is another tipical product of Villa Basilica’s cuisine. The chestnuts are harvested and dried in traditional metati (chestnut-drying huts), using chestnut wood for the fire, and then ground in stone mills. The experience and craftsmanship of both those who prepare and monitor the metato and those who grind the dried chestnuts ensure the product’s excellent quality.
The products made from chestnut flour are numerous, ranging from classic preparations like necci (chestnut flour crêpes) and castagnaccio (a typical chestnut cake) to more unusual dishes like vinata, a polenta made with chestnut flour and wine. These delicacies can be savored in the local trattorias or during the village festivals.

Gastronomic experiences in Villa Basilica

Visiting Villa Basilica means not only admiring its landscapes but also tasting dishes that tell the story and culture of this small corner of Tuscany. For a complete experience, you can take part in gastronomic tours that combine visits to local producers with tastings of typical products. These tours, often organized in collaboration with local farms, allow participants to learn about the production process and appreciate the quality of the products in an authentic, family-friendly setting.
The trattorias in the village are ideal places to enjoy traditional dishes in a convivial atmosphere. During lunch or dinner, alongside dishes like torta coi becchi, salviato and castagnaccio, you can enjoy a glass of local red wine and discover the winemaking culture of this region.