Gelato alla fragola velocissima Mario Matassa was given this strawberry ice cream recipe years back at the restaurant by a fellow chef when sparks started shooting from the back of the ice cream machine, which is not supposed to happen. The problem with most recipes for homemade ice cream made without the benefit of a […]
Mozzarella in carrozza Mozzarella in carrozza is a tasty treat born in Napoli, which has become particularly popular in Venice. Like an elevated version of the classic grilled cheese (or toastie, if you prefer), this sandwich features fresh mozzarella, and is fried in a delicious golden batter. For true Venetian style, add a slice of […]
Venice is well-loved for its amazing architecture and winding canals. But if that’s not enough, here are five fabulous foods and drinks that will convince you to visit Venice… 5 foodie reasons to visit Venice: 1. To feast on risi e bisi If you visit Venice in the springtime, one dish not to miss is risi […]
Macedonia con crema chantilly all’italiana Over the summer, it pays to take advantage of the wonderful supply of fresh seasonal fruits. One of my favourite desserts has always been a simple bowl of fresh strawberries with a generous dollop of Chantilly cream. But I also love Italian crema pasticcera (their version of custard, you could […]
Zuppa di pesce There’s something about fish soup that gives it the ‘wow’ factor. The key is good quality fresh fish and adding them according to their respective cooking times. One of the sheer joys of this dish is that not only does it look spectacular but it’s a dish you can dig in and […]
We hunt for the best Italian tomato sauce you can buy in a jar – perfect for midweek pasta suppers and more – give them a try! Making fresh food from scratch doesn’t have to be complicated – in fact, a tomato-based sauce for pasta is one of the easiest to rustle up. Easy yes, […]
As concerns about sustainable farming practices and ingredient nutrition grow, artisanal Italian food producer Seggiano launches a new low gluten index ancient grain pasta, made using a nutritious wheat variety which is over 10,000 years old Coeliacs and those with gluten-associated digestive issues are estimated to make up the 10% of the UK population following […]
Focaccia con peperoni e mozzarella As the days get warmer and the nights shorter, Italians take to one of their favourite pastimes: eating outdoors. The key to a successful summer evening party is to organise a menu that can mostly be prepared in advance. This focaccia recipe doesn’t require any kneading. It does have to […]
Cinque Terre is pretty as a picture, but a colourful coast and stunning scenery aren’t the only things offered by these vibrant seaside villages. Discover five delicious reasons to visit Cinque Terre… 1. Luscious lemons One sight you can’t fail to notice throughout the rugged terrain of Cinque Terre is the many lemon trees that […]
We go behind the scenes of an Italian Christmas with Mario Matassa as he explores the rich and austere festive food and traditions of Italy… To describe a celebration of food as both ‘rich and austere’ might seem something of a contradiction. Yet I can think of no more apt a description of this, the […]