The British Embassy in Rome has found itself in hot water after posting a pasta recipe that has been branded a "culinary crime" by outraged Italians. The diplomatic mission shared the recipe on social media, only to face a storm of criticism for including ingredients considered sacrilegious in traditional Italian cooking.
The Controversial Recipe
The offending dish, which the embassy claimed was a "British twist" on pasta, included two extra ingredients that sent Italian food purists into meltdown. While the exact additions remain undisclosed, sources suggest they may have included unconventional pairings like cream in carbonara or pineapple in pasta dishes - both considered cardinal sins in Italian cuisine.
Social Media Backlash
Italian social media users didn't hold back their disapproval:
- One commenter wrote: "This isn't fusion, it's food vandalism!"
- Another demanded: "Close the embassy immediately for this gastronomic terrorism!"
- A third joked: "First Brexit, now this? When will the attacks on Italy end?"
Diplomatic Damage Control
The embassy initially stood by their recipe, defending it as an example of "culinary diversity." However, as the backlash grew, they quietly removed the post. A spokesperson later stated: "We appreciate the passion Italians have for their cuisine and meant no disrespect to this beloved culinary tradition."
Food historians note this isn't the first time Britain's take on Italian dishes has caused controversy. The infamous "spaghetti hoops" and baked bean pizzas still haunt Anglo-Italian relations.
What's Next?
While the diplomatic incident appears resolved, food experts warn it may take more than an apology to heal the culinary rift. Some suggest the embassy should host an authentic Italian chef to demonstrate proper pasta preparation as a peace offering.
Meanwhile, British foodies have taken to social media to defend their right to culinary experimentation, with one posting: "If Italians can put ketchup on pizza in America, we can put [redacted] in our pasta!"
