Ep 15. To Crumb or Not to Crumb

Lidia's Italy season 2 episode 15, titled To Crumb or Not to Crumb, takes viewers on a culinary journey through Italy as Chef Lidia Bastianich explores the art of crumbing. Lidia delves into the history of this technique, which involves coating food in breadcrumbs before cooking, and explores its various uses and applications across Italian cuisine.

The episode is filmed against the backdrop of the stunning Italian countryside, with Lidia taking time to appreciate the beauty of the land and its people. She visits local markets and specialty food shops to gather ingredients for her dishes, stopping to chat with vendors and share in their passion for high-quality, traditional Italian food.

Throughout the episode, Lidia showcases a range of recipes that incorporate crumbing, from classic dishes like chicken Milanese and veal scaloppine to more adventurous creations like shrimp and artichoke croquettes and polenta crusted salmon. She shares her tips for achieving the perfect crumb, including using fresh, high-quality breadcrumbs and making sure to press the coating firmly onto the food before cooking.

As Lidia prepares each dish, she shares her insights into the origins and cultural significance of the recipes, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the rich culinary traditions of Italy. She also shares stories and anecdotes from her own life, reflecting on her childhood in Istria and her journey to becoming one of the world's most acclaimed chefs.

One of the highlights of the episode is an intimate dinner party hosted by Lidia, where she serves a range of crumbed dishes to a group of friends and family. As they dine on her creations, Lidia shares her passion for Italian food and the joy it brings her to share it with others.

To Crumb or Not to Crumb is a delightful and informative episode that showcases the artistry and diversity of Italian cuisine. From classic dishes to modern creations, Lidia's recipes inspire viewers to embrace the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients and the joy of sharing good food with those we love.