Ep 2. Rolling With Nonna Lisa

Lidia's Italy season 2 episode 2 titled "Rolling With Nonna Lisa" features Lidia Bastianich and her mother, Nonna Lisa, exploring the culinary delights of rural Italy. The episode takes viewers on a journey through the lush countryside of the Marche region while Lidia and Nonna Lisa meet with local farmers and chefs to learn about the region's unique ingredients and cooking techniques.

The episode begins with Lidia and Nonna Lisa traveling to a local farm where they meet a couple who produces artisanal cheese and cured meats. The women witness the process of making ricotta cheese and are treated to a tasting of the various cheese and meats they produce. Lidia and Nonna Lisa are impressed by the quality and freshness of the products and share their appreciation of the passion and dedication the couple puts into their craft.

Next, Lidia and Nonna Lisa visit a rural restaurant in the heart of the Marche region that specializes in traditional dishes. They meet the chef and are given a tour of the kitchen where they see the preparation of homemade pasta and sauces. The women are served a meal that includes fried stuffed olives, ricotta gnocchi with beef ragu, and a local fish dish. They marvel at the delicious flavors and quality of the ingredients used.

In the second half of the episode, Lidia and Nonna Lisa travel to a small village to attend a historic festival celebrating a local food specialty. Along the way, they stop to visit a family-owned cooking school where they learn how to make a traditional dessert called cicerchiata. The dessert consists of fried dough balls coated in honey and nonpareils. Lidia and Nonna Lisa try their hand at making the dessert and are pleased with the tasty results.

Finally, Lidia and Nonna Lisa arrive at the festival where they meet with local producers and chefs who showcase the traditional food specialties of the region. They sample a variety of dishes, including porchetta, frittata, and wild boar stew. They also witness a traditional dance performance that showcases the cultural heritage of the region.

Throughout the episode, Lidia and Nonna Lisa's passion for food and culture shines through as they explore the culinary traditions of the Marche region. Their interactions with local farmers, chefs, and producers provide insight into the importance of fresh, high-quality ingredients and the role food plays in bringing people together. "Rolling With Nonna Lisa" is an enjoyable and informative episode that highlights the beauty and richness of Italian cuisine.