Okay, first post … here we go!
Some people inherit traditions (and food) through marriage… Not me…
As long as I can remember, I’ve been in love with Italian food. It’s actually one of the reasons (many reasons) I learned to cook.
Their culinary traditions, regardless of region are full of stories of delicious simplicity. Histories built around the need to utilize this crop or that left over. All ready for the mental and culinary feast.
One of my favorite culinary movies is The Godfather. I know, I know – you’re shaking your head already wondering what kind of crackpot blog this is or maybe you wonder what I’m drinking today, but yes – The Godfather. A budding foodie’s first peek into just how good Italian food must be.
Take, for example, the statement by Clemenza – “Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.” I’d never heard of a cannoli before. I HAD to try one. After all, they were so good that Paulie drove across town to buy them and Clemenza wasn’t going to let Rocco leave them in the car and to go to waste!
And, oh the heaven, the delicious crunch followed by the soft gooeyness of the cheese. My first had the crushed pistachios… it’s true what they say, you never forget your first. I was hooked.
And I learned how to cut acidic tomatoes in sauce using sugar. At my house, we had Ragu then Prego. My mother and step mother worked. Sauce, especially good sauce, takes time. (I’ve since learned NOT to put sugar in the sauce, but it piqued my curiosity enough to check it out!)
And the order of ingredients into the pot – such an important discovery! First the oil, then garlic, then tomatoes and tomato paste, then all ‘da meat, the wine, and then the secret ingredient (sugar) ~ ah learning to cook – Clemenza style
And so became a love of food – simple food with rich flavors and stories. Presented through the eyes of Puzo and Coppola (anyone else find it interesting that Coppola now owns a Vineyard, Winery, and line of specialty foods??)
The melding of tradition and history and culture and family all into something you can sink your teeth into? Fabulous. I hope you find this blog evolves the way food has. A written amalgam of delicious tips and tricks and systems that make you come back week after week wanting more.
Ciao! (for now)
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