Ep 17. Autumn in Maremma

Lidia's Italy Season 1 Episode 17, "Autumn in Maremma," takes viewers on a culinary journey through the Maremma region of Tuscany during the beautiful autumn season. Lidia Bastianich, a renowned chef and Italian cuisine expert, introduces viewers to the hearty and soulful dishes of this region that are perfect for the cooler months.

The episode begins with Lidia visiting a local farmer’s market where she finds an abundance of beautiful seasonal produce. She picks out a variety of vegetables, including pumpkins, eggplants, zucchinis, and mushrooms, that will be used in her cooking later on. She also speaks to the farmers about the importance of using local and seasonal ingredients in Italian cooking.

Next, Lidia heads to a vineyard in Maremma to learn about the wine production in the region. She meets with the winemaker and takes a tour of the vineyard, learning about the different types of grapes grown there and how they're turned into wine. She also tastes some of the vineyard’s wines and discusses the pairing of wine with food.

Back in the kitchen, Lidia prepares a traditional Tuscan dish of beef and vegetable stew called peposo. She explains the history and cultural significance of the dish while demonstrating how to make it step by step. The dish is a hearty and flavorful meal, perfect for the cooler weather.

Lidia then heads to a local pasture to meet the cows that produce the milk for the famous Maremma cheese, called Pecorino. She learns about the process of cheese-making and tastes some of the fresh Pecorino cheese. She takes the cheese back to the kitchen to make a classic dish from the Maremma region, Pici pasta with Pecorino cheese and pepper. She demonstrates how to make the pasta from scratch and also shares some tips on how to cook and serve it.

Finally, Lidia prepares a dessert using seasonal pears from a local orchard. She makes a delicious pear tart and explains how to make the perfect pastry crust, filling, and topping. The dish is a perfect way to end a meal and celebrate the flavors of autumn.

Overall, "Autumn in Maremma" is a delightful and educational episode that showcases the traditions, culture, and flavors of Tuscany's beautiful Maremma region during the fall season. The episode will leave viewers with a sense of appreciation for using local and seasonal ingredients in cooking and a newfound love for the hearty and delicious cuisine of Tuscany.