Ep 26. That's How the Cookie Crumbles

Lidia's Italy season 2 episode 26, titled That's How the Cookie Crumbles, follows renowned Italian chef Lidia Bastianich as she dives deeper into the world of Italian cuisine. In this episode, Lidia explores the art of biscotti making and visits a family-owned bakery to learn their secret recipe for these beloved Italian cookies.

Throughout the episode, Lidia strolls the charming streets of Italy, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling town. She stops by a local market to gather fresh ingredients and discovers that every region in Italy has its own unique approach to making biscotti. Lidia explains that biscotti, also known as cantuccini, are twice-baked cookies that originated in the city of Prato.

Next, Lidia visits a family-owned bakery to learn their traditional recipe for almond biscotti. She watches as the skilled bakers expertly mix, shape, and bake the dough to create perfectly crisp and crunchy cookies. The bakers share their tips and tricks with Lidia, explaining how the addition of anise and orange zest adds a unique flavor to the biscuits.

Lidia also showcases her own recipe for hazelnut biscotti, which she describes as a twist on the traditional almond version. She takes viewers step-by-step through the process, from mixing the dough to shaping the cookies and baking them to perfection. As she works, Lidia peppers in stories and anecdotes from her childhood in Italy, adding a personal touch to the episode.

In addition to biscotti, Lidia also explores other Italian sweet treats, including a decadent Nutella semifreddo. She shares her recipe for this creamy dessert, which features layers of hazelnut cream and chocolatey goodness.

As always, Lidia emphasizes the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and taking the time to carefully craft each dish. She also stresses the importance of sharing meals with loved ones, emphasizing the role that food plays in bringing people together.

Overall, Lidia's Italy season 2 episode 26 offers a delightful exploration of the world of Italian sweets. From almond biscotti to Nutella semifreddo, Lidia showcases the variety and depth of Italian desserts while offering up her own expert tips and techniques. Fans of Italian cuisine and sweet treats alike are sure to find something to love in this indulgent episode.