Discover the secrets behind “The Soup of Happiness” at the Agrichef Festival 2025

The Agrichef Festival: A Showcase of Rustic Culinary Excellence and Sustainability at the Heart of Italy’s Gastronomic Culture.

The Agrichef Festival, held on March 27, 2025, at the “Amerigo Vespucci” Hotel Institute in Rome, celebrated its seventh edition by highlighting the importance of rural cuisine and sustainability. Organized by Turismo Verde, the agritourism association of Cia-Agricoltori Italiani, the event gathered agrichefs and students from various Italian hotel schools to promote traditional countryside dishes. This year, the festival emphasized reducing food waste and supporting local produce, offering a platform for chefs and students to showcase their creativity and commitment to sustainable gastronomy.

Celebrating Culinary Creativity with a Winning Recipe

This year’s festival spotlighted the winning dish, “La zuppa della felicità,” presented by Agrichef Federica Sparascio from the “Gli Ulivi” agriturismo in Tricase, Puglia. Her recipe was crafted in collaboration with students from the “Aldo Moro” Hotel and Tourism Institute in Santa Cesarea Terme, Lecce. The second place was awarded to “La mia terra,” a tortello dish from Emilia-Romagna, crafted by Agrichef Federico Mei of “Corte dell’Abbadessa” agriturismo and students from “Vergani Navarra” Institute. The third place was secured by “Anguilla in saor di porri,” a Venetian dish, prepared by Agrichef Fiorella Zerbini, representing agriturismos “Le Manciane,” “La Barena,” and “Le Saline,” alongside students from the “Elena Cornaro” Institute.

Uniting Regions through Sustainable Practices

The festival saw participation from agrichefs representing seven distinct Italian regions: Campania, Emilia-Romagna, Liguria, Piemonte, Puglia, Toscana, and Veneto. Each participant presented recipes that not only embodied their regional culinary culture but also adhered to sustainable practices. Emphasizing the use of local raw materials and minimizing waste, these dishes highlighted the chefs’ dedication to preserving their gastronomic heritage while promoting environmental consciousness.

The Significance of the Agrichef Festival

Mario Grillo, president of Turismo Verde, and Cristiano Fini, president of Cia, underscored the festival’s significance by emphasizing the protection of Made in Italy food quality. In light of global conflicts threatening food security, they stressed the need for continued commitment to promoting rural cuisine and educating new generations on sustainable practices. The festival serves as a reminder of the critical role that tradition and innovation play in ensuring the future of Italian gastronomy.

Fostering Connections and Cultural Appreciation

Fabio Cannatà, head of the “Amerigo Vespucci” Hotel Institute, highlighted the festival’s role as a crucial meeting point for students, teachers, and the agricultural world. By fostering meaningful relationships, the event contributes to the appreciation and preservation of local gastronomic culture. The Agrichef Festival not only connects individuals but also bridges the gap between education and the agricultural sector, ensuring the continued evolution of Italy’s rich culinary landscape.

In conclusion, the Agrichef Festival stands as a testament to the enduring vitality of Italy’s culinary traditions. Through the celebration of rustic cuisine and sustainable practices, the event not only honors the past but also paves the way for a future where gastronomy and sustainability walk hand in hand.

Riproduzione riservata © - WT