Ep 11. Tuscan Soul Food

Extra Virgin is a cooking show hosted by actress Debi Mazar and her Italian husband, Gabriele Corcos. In season 4, episode 11, titled Tuscan Soul Food, viewers are taken on a culinary journey through the heart of Tuscany.

The episode starts with a scene of Debi and Gabriele taking a walk through the countryside, admiring the picturesque views and fresh produce. The couple heads to the local market to purchase ingredients for their meals, including organic vegetables, locally sourced meats, and homemade cheeses. Gabriele explains the importance of using fresh and sustainable ingredients in Tuscan cooking, as it enhances the flavor and nutritional value of the dishes.

Back in the kitchen, Gabriele prepares a decadent breakfast of frittata with pecorino cheese and truffles, along with crispy fried potatoes and sautéed mushrooms. Debi helps Gabriele prepare the perfect coffee to go with the breakfast, using a traditional Italian moka pot. The couple sits down to enjoy their delicious meal together while admiring the beautiful Tuscan scenery.

Later in the episode, Debi and Gabriele head to a nearby vineyard to learn about the art of making Chianti wine. They meet with the winemaker, who explains the process of harvesting the grapes and fermenting the juice. Debi and Gabriele are astounded by the amount of hard work and passion that goes into making a bottle of wine, and they eagerly sample the Chianti to appreciate its unique flavor and aroma.

Back in the kitchen, Gabriele prepares a traditional Tuscan lunch of ribollita, a hearty soup made with cannellini beans, bread, and vegetables. Debi helps Gabriele make the perfect crostini to go with the soup, using grilled bread topped with garlic, olive oil, and tomatoes. The couple sits down to enjoy their delicious lunch, savoring the comforting flavors of the ribollita.

As the day turns to evening, Debi and Gabriele invite their friends over for a dinner party. Gabriele prepares a sumptuous meal of Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a classic Tuscan steak dish, paired with a side of creamy polenta and grilled vegetables. Debi whips up a refreshing limoncello sorbet for dessert, using lemons from the garden. The guests thoroughly enjoy the meal and praise Gabriele's culinary skills.

The episode concludes with Debi and Gabriele reflecting on their Tuscan adventure and the importance of cherishing food, family, and community. The couple emphasizes the beauty of Tuscan cooking, where simplicity, flavor, and soul converge to create unforgettable dishes.

Overall, Extra Virgin season 4 episode 11 offers an immersive and inspiring look into Tuscan cuisine and culture. Debi and Gabriele's vivacious personalities, combined with their deep knowledge of Italian cooking, make for a delightful viewing experience that will leave viewers eager to try out these traditional Tuscan recipes in their own kitchens.