Italian Food Safari Season 1 Episode 6 Episode 6
- April 23, 2010
- 26 min
Italian Food Safari is a cooking show that takes us on a culinary journey across Italy. Hosted by Maeve O'Meara and Guy Grossi, this series explores the many regional cuisines of Italy and the history behind the dishes. In season 1, episode 6, we are taken to some of the lesser-known regions of Italy to discover new dishes and cooking techniques.
The episode begins in Emilia-Romagna, known as the culinary capital of Italy. Here, we discover the unique pasta shape called tortellini. Maeve and Guy visit a local pasta maker who shows them how to create the perfect tortellini by hand. The filling for these delicate little parcels is made with prosciutto, Parmesan, and mortadella, and is seasoned with nutmeg. The finished product looks beautiful and the pair enjoy some fresh tortellini with a simple tomato sauce.
Next, Maeve and Guy head to the Lombardy region to learn about the cheese-making tradition of the area. They visit a local farm where they meet a farmer whose family has been making cheese for generations. The cheese, called Bitto, is made using cow and goat milk and is aged for up to 10 years. Maeve and Guy taste the cheese and are impressed with its complex flavors.
Moving on, the hosts take us to Liguria, a coastal region famous for its seafood. They meet a fishmonger who shows them a variety of fresh fish and explains how to choose the best seafood. They then head to a local seaside restaurant where the chef prepares a delicious pasta dish with seafood, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
The show then takes us to Basilicata, a region that is often overlooked in the food world. Here, we learn about the local bread called Pane di Matera, which is made using durum wheat flour and baked in a wood-fired oven. The bread has a dense texture and is perfect for soaking up sauces or eaten with olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese.
Finally, the hosts take us to Sardinia, an island off the coast of Italy. Here, we discover the unique cheese called Pecorino Sardo, which is made from sheep's milk. The cheese has a strong flavor and is often served with honey or figs. Maeve and Guy visit a local shepherd who shows them how the cheese is made and they enjoy a picnic with some freshly made Pecorino Sardo.
Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the importance of regional cuisine in Italy and how it has been shaped by the history and geography of each area. They also stress the importance of quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques to create authentic Italian dishes.
Overall, Italian Food Safari season 1 episode 6 provides a fascinating insight into some of the lesser-known regions of Italy and their unique culinary traditions. The episode is a celebration of Italian food and culture and is sure to inspire viewers to explore the many flavors of Italy.