Ep 25. Heavenly Baccala

Lidia's Italy Season 2 Episode 25: Heavenly Baccala

In this captivating episode of Lidia's Italy, titled "Heavenly Baccala," Lidia Bastianich takes us on another culinary adventure through the heart of Italy. Lidia's passion for Italian cuisine shines once again as she explores the rich traditions and flavors of her homeland.

The episode begins with Lidia's warm introduction, sharing her excitement to delve into one of her favorite ingredients – baccala. Known as salted codfish, baccala holds a prominent place in Italian cooking, particularly in the coastal regions where fresh fish might be scarce or expensive.

Lidia starts by explaining the importance of soaking the baccala to remove excess salt, a critical step before utilizing this versatile ingredient in various recipes. She then whisks us away to beautiful coastal towns, introducing us to local fishermen who share their knowledge and love for baccala.

With the mesmerizing backdrop of the Adriatic Sea, Lidia prepares a traditional Venetian baccala dish, Baccala Mantecato. She artfully blends the soaked codfish with olive oil, garlic, and parsley, gently coaxing it into a creamy, luscious spread. Lidia's enthusiasm for preserving and promoting authentic flavors is evident as she discusses the historical significance of this iconic Venetian delicacy.

Next, Lidia takes us on a culinary voyage to the charming town of Naples. Famous for its vibrant street life and outstanding cuisine, Naples is the birthplace of numerous iconic Italian dishes, including Baccala alla Napoletana. Lidia explores the bustling fish markets, where she selects the freshest baccala to enhance the flavors of this classic recipe.

Back in her kitchen, Lidia demonstrates the traditional preparation of Baccala alla Napoletana, showcasing the simplicity and depth of this beloved dish. She skillfully combines baccala with tomatoes, olives, capers, and anchovies, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. As Lidia explains the history behind this dish, viewers get a glimpse into the significance of food in Italian culture.

The journey continues to the picturesque region of Liguria, known for its stunning coastline and exquisite cuisine. Lidia transports us to the picturesque fishing village of Camogli, where baccala holds a special place in the culinary heritage. Lidia explores the vibrant markets, selecting the finest ingredients to create another fantastic baccala recipe.

Taking inspiration from the local Ligurian flavors, Lidia prepares a delightful Baccala with Chickpeas and Taggiasche Olives. She combines tender baccala with creamy chickpeas, aromatic fresh herbs, and the distinctive Taggiasche olives, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that perfectly showcases the sea-kissed flavors of the Ligurian coastline.

As the episode unfolds, Lidia's enthusiasm for baccala spreads contagiously, prompting viewers to appreciate the rich traditions and unique culinary treasures found throughout Italy. The love and respect Lidia has for her heritage shine through, creating an immersive experience for viewers who are transported to Italy's culinary hotspots.

"Heavenly Baccala" captures Lidia Bastianich's unwavering dedication to preserving and sharing the authentic tastes of Italy. Through her unparalleled expertise and passion, Lidia unveils the beauty of baccala, a humble ingredient with a rich history that has been celebrated for centuries in Italian kitchens.

Join Lidia on this extraordinary culinary expedition, as she unlocks the secrets of baccala and demonstrates why it holds a cherished place in the hearts of Italians and food enthusiasts around the world. Get ready to savor the heavenly flavors and immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of Italy, one bite at a time.