Memories One of the most vivid dishes I remember from when I was really young was something my grand ma used to make, amongst other (many) delicious things. I remember staying over in her beautiful home, full of really old stuff (she’d live there since before WWII), lots of places to hide and seek, old post cards in boxes, old books, and a window overlooking the street below, called rampe. I used to sit at that window in the dark…
What a perfect summer pairing! Aperol Spritz launches #SpritzSuppers recipes in collaboration with Polpo restaurant A few months ago I attended an interesting event at the Campari UK headquarters where we learned how Russel Norman (of Polpo fame) introduced one of Italy’s most famous aperitifs to the UK. Made with Aperol, Spritz is actually one of the many aperitifs Aperol can help with. I remember for example ejoyig may ‘Apertass’ back in Napoli, whereby Aperol, slightly alcoholic bitter cordial, is…
Mozzarella! Two years ago I had the pleasure to attend the first London session of established Italian event Strade della Mozzarella (mozzarella roads) which is held each spring in beautiful Paestum. It was founded by the local Consorzio (cooperative) that groups together mozzarella di bufala producers from the area, to promote the knowledge and appreciation of such excellence. This year again, the afternoon long event was held at the Baglioni hotel in Kensington, but was also preceded by a celebration…
The best arancini recipe around As I come from Napoli, one of the ‘street food’ items that I most love is arancini, rice balls. We call them arancini in Napoli, in other parts of Italy they change gender and become arancine, and have different versions. From the massive rice balls eaten in Sicily, full to the brim with mince meat ragu and peas (the best in my childhood memory used to be on the ferry between mainland and the island,…
Who doesn’t love a hamper? A giant one turned up on my door step a few days ago, full of Italian products, from lots of familiar names. Ciao Gusto in a group of household names from Italian big brands, now sold via Ocado in the UK. The basket I received had an assorted selection of products, not necessarily just for Christmas. Each product was easily recognisable and some of them brought back many memories of my life in Italy. Ciao…