Ep 3. Remembering Rome

In the third episode of Giada At Home season 1, titled "Remembering Rome," Giada De Laurentiis takes viewers on a culinary journey through her Italian heritage. The episode focuses on Giada's nostalgic memories of Rome, where she spent many summers with her family as a child.

Giada begins by preparing a classic Italian dish that holds a special place in her heart: spaghetti carbonara. She uses pancetta (Italian bacon) and eggs to create a rich and creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. Giada also shares some tips for cooking pasta, emphasizing the importance of using salted water and avoiding overcooking.

Next, Giada revisits one of her favorite Roman restaurants, La Montecarlo. She meets with the owner, Giancarlo, who shares his recipe for the restaurant's signature dish, saltimbocca alla Romana. Giada watches closely as Giancarlo prepares the dish, which consists of thin slices of veal topped with prosciutto and sage leaves, then sautéed in butter and white wine.

Back in her own kitchen, Giada prepares her take on another Roman classic, pasta alla gricia. This dish is similar to spaghetti carbonara, but without the eggs. Instead, Giada uses guanciale (cured pork cheek) and pecorino cheese to create a simple yet flavorful sauce. She also demonstrates the proper way to grate cheese, explaining that it should be done at room temperature and with a microplane grater.

To finish off the episode, Giada prepares a dessert inspired by her childhood memories of eating gelato in Rome. She creates a simple strawberry sorbet, using fresh strawberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Giada also shares a trick for getting the sorbet to freeze faster: adding a little vodka to the mixture.

Throughout the episode, Giada shares stories about her fond memories of Rome, both the food and the culture. She talks about how her grandfather would take her to the market to pick out fresh ingredients, and how her family would gather around the table for long meals, enjoying each other's company as much as the food.

"Remembering Rome" is a touching tribute to Giada's Italian heritage and a reminder of the power of food to evoke memories and emotions. The episode is filled with delicious recipes, helpful tips, and heartwarming stories that will leave viewers feeling inspired to create their own culinary traditions.