In the early nineties, when I met the Slittis (see blog on chocolate making) I like most of the locals knew and appreciated the wonderful skills of Andrea’s father, Luciano Slitti, as a prominent coffee bean roaster and maker of custom coffee blends. Few knew that behind the scenes in the eighties, Luciano’s oldest son… Read more »
Taking into consideration the possibility of interesting table conversation at a formal dinner of 25 guests from around the world, I placed a distinguish American industrialist near our guest of honor from England. I noticed our English lady frowning constantly as if in discomfort glancing with the corner of her eye at the gentleman to… Read more »
Our cooking class attendees had the occasion to visit both Parma and Modena in the gastronomically renown area of Italy, Emilia Romagna. It gave them the opportunity to view the production of the popular dry-cured ham known around the world as prosciutto as it was done centuries ago. At 9 to 10 months of age,… Read more »
While having a dinner party with some Italian friends my friend Eduardo came to visit me. When introducing him to one of our guests his face turned white, mouth dropped wide open and he froze in a state of shock. When I took him aside questioning what was wrong, he whispered that he was surprised… Read more »
The artisans of this month are the makers of Parmigiano Reggiano, which I consider the king of all cheeses. Our class attendees visiting Emilia Romagna’s world famous caseificios this week, where the production of these 80 pound wheels takes place, were amazed at the labor involved, time, dedication and passion that the artisans have for… Read more »
Some twenty years ago it was difficult to get American channels on our Italian TV. Success arrived with our satellite dish that gave us a channel for CNN and or to see a video, one or the other. This arrangement worked out well. One evening when our American guests retired for the evening, our Italian… Read more »
Life was not easy for the immigrants. They left family and loved ones to settle in a strange country with a different culture, language and a society that often rejected them. Worse of all were the war years. Mom found herself in an apartment, alone, with three baby girls as Dad went off to work,… Read more »
Umberto, named and honored as the King of Cappuccino started his training at age 14 and at age 84 continues to make his special coffees at his bar as he has done for the last 70 years, He is another one of my favorite artisans. Greeting the crowds that come daily for that special espresso… Read more »
Introduction to Convivio “A degree of civilization can be measured by a country’s cuisine” -Escoffier Cultural Differences at the Table The personal experience of an Italian-American suggesting that Italy not lose its food culture and why America should adopt one. The 20s and 30s: Before My Table— Food–the new cuisine began with time saving devices… Read more »
“Don’t forget to have Francesco water while I am gone,” said Martha as she was about to leave for the States. “ The new nursery is great, all organic. I look forward to great organic minestrone on my return.” “No problem,” I assured her. After giving Francesco the order, I myself had to leave to… Read more »
[caption id="attachment_1042" align="alignleft" width="300"] Saving electricity- ecological power[/caption] Jorge may love his bidet but I love, when time allows, to enjoy an occasional tub soak which he doesn’t understand. “You need a Jacuzzi tub.” An Italian massage therapist visiting us said when hearing about my back pain. "I’ll set up a portable unit that I…
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