History of Gianduiotto
Today I will talk to you about the gianduiotto, a famous chocolate from Turin with a fascinating history and a long tradition.
The gianduiotto was born in Turin in the 19th century, during the Napoleonic period. Its invention is closely tied to the commercial restrictions imposed by Napoleon’s Continental Blockade, which made it difficult to import cocoa. To overcome the scarcity of cocoa, Turin chocolatiers began mixing it with more readily available local ingredients.
In 1852, chocolatier Michele Prochet had the idea of mixing cocoa with hazelnuts from the Langhe region, renowned for their quality. This innovation reduced the amount of cocoa needed and created a new type of chocolate called “gianduia”.
Later, in 1865, during the Carnival of Turin, Prochet and Caffarel officially presented the gianduiotto, a chocolate with a distinctive boat-like shape, wrapped in golden paper.
Ingredienti
The gianduiotto is still produced today following traditional methods. The main ingredients are:
- Cocoa
- Sugar
- Hazelnuts from the Langhe, preferably the “Tonda Gentile delle Langhe” variety
These hazelnuts are roasted and finely ground into a creamy paste that is mixed with cocoa and sugar. The resulting paste is then molded into the characteristic triangular shape.
The gianduiotto has become a symbol of Turin and its chocolate-making tradition.
It is closely associated with the Carnival mask “Gianduja”, a popular character from the Piedmontese commedia dell’arte, representing cheerfulness and kindness. This association has helped root the gianduiotto in the culture and traditions of Turin.
Gianduiotto Today
Today, the gianduiotto is appreciated worldwide and produced by various chocolatiers, both artisanal and industrial.
Despite modern techniques, many producers keep the tradition alive, ensuring the quality and authenticity of this delicious chocolate.
The gianduiotto represents a perfect example of how creativity and adaptation to circumstances can give birth to new products that become an integral part of the culture and tradition of a place.
Where to Find Gianduiotto: Best Chocolate Shops
Turin is famous for its excellent artisanal chocolate shops, many of which are renowned for producing gianduiotti. Here are some of the best artisanal chocolate shops in Turin worth visiting:
1. Guido Gobino (Via Lagrange 1, 10123 Turin)
Guido Gobino is one of the most famous chocolate shops in Turin. Known for its attention to the quality of raw materials and innovation in production techniques, Gobino offers a wide range of chocolates, including its famous gianduiotti. Their version of gianduiotto features a high percentage of Langhe hazelnuts
2. Peyrano (Corso Moncalieri 47, 10133 Turin)
Peyrano is a historic name in the Turin chocolate scene. Founded in 1915, this chocolate shop is known for its tradition and the quality of its products. Peyrano’s gianduiotti are appreciated for their delicacy and balanced taste.
3. Caffarel (Via Gianavello 41, 10062 Luserna San Giovanni, Turin)
Caffarel is one of the oldest Italian chocolate companies, founded in 1826. Although it is now a globally recognized brand, it continues to produce gianduiotti using traditional methods. Caffarel is particularly famous for contributing to the invention of the gianduiotto.
4. Giacosa (Via Giuseppe Luigi Lagrange 34, 10123 Turin)
Giacosa is an artisanal chocolate shop that combines tradition and innovation. With a wide range of high-quality products, Giacosa’s gianduiotti are highly appreciated for their authentic flavor and creamy texture.
5. Avidano (Piazza Cavour 17, 10024 Moncalieri, Turin)
Avidano is another excellent artisanal chocolate shop in Turin. Founded in 1956, Avidano stands out for its use of high-quality ingredients and attention to detail. Their gianduiotti are made with top-quality Piedmontese hazelnuts and high-quality cocoa.
6. Cioccolateria Piemontese (Corso Regina Margherita 151, 10122 Turin)
Specializing in artisanal chocolate, this chocolate shop offers a wide range of chocolates, including traditional gianduiotti. The quality of the ingredients and artisanal processing make their products particularly valuable.
These chocolate shops represent the best of Turin’s chocolate-making tradition and offer visitors the chance to taste authentic artisanal gianduiotti, made with passion and attention to detail. If you are a chocolate lover, these shops will offer you delicious and unique experiences, making your visit to Turin even more special! What are you waiting for?
See you next time!
