Ep 25. Sweet and Spicy Calabria

In this episode of Lidia's Italy, host Lidia Bastianich travels to the region of Calabria in southern Italy to explore the sweet and spicy flavors of the area's cuisine.

She begins her culinary journey by visiting a local farm where they grow the famous Calabrian chili peppers, known for their fiery heat. Lidia learns about the different varieties of peppers and how they are used in traditional dishes such as nduja, a spreadable salami that is a staple of Calabrian cuisine. She also discovers the sweet side of Calabria, sampling the region's delicious figs and learning about the importance of honey production in the local economy.

Next, Lidia heads to the historic town of Tropea on the coast to explore more of the region's food culture. She visits a family-run restaurant where they are famous for their homemade pasta dishes. Lidia gets a lesson in making chitarra pasta, which is cut with a special wire-strung instrument and served with a spicy tomato sauce made with the famous Calabrian chili peppers.

Later, Lidia meets up with a local chef who takes her to the bustling market in the city of Reggio Calabria. They explore the many stalls selling fresh seafood, meats, and produce, and Lidia samples some of the local street food, including a delicious fried rice ball filled with cheese and ham.

Finally, Lidia ends her culinary adventure in the kitchen of a family home, where she learns how to make a traditional Calabrian dessert called zuccarini. These little almond cakes are given a spicy kick with the addition of Calabrian chili peppers, bringing together the sweet and spicy flavors of the region in one delicious dessert.

Throughout the episode, Lidia showcases the unique flavors and ingredients of Calabria's cuisine, as well as the region's rich history and culture. As always, she emphasizes the importance of using fresh, local ingredients and of sharing meals and traditions with family and friends.