Ep 25. Sauerkraut My Way

In Lidia's Italy season 1 episode 25, titled "Sauerkraut My Way," host Lidia Bastianich explores the culinary traditions of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of Italy. Known for its unique blend of Italian, Austrian, and Slovenian influences, this region is home to a variety of delicious dishes, including sauerkraut.

Lidia starts off by taking a trip to a local market, where she picks up fresh ingredients like apples, onions, and sauerkraut. Back in the kitchen, she shares her recipe for sauerkraut with a twist. Instead of the traditional method of cooking it in wine and pork, Lidia uses white wine and chicken stock to create a lighter, fresher flavor. She also adds apples to the mix, which gives the sauerkraut a sweet, tangy taste.

While the sauerkraut cooks, Lidia prepares a variety of other dishes from the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. She makes a hearty potato soup with pancetta and cream, as well as a delicious pasta dish with sausage and fennel. She also whips up a simple salad with arugula and shaved parmesan, which serves as the perfect accompaniment to the rich, flavorful main course.

Throughout the episode, Lidia talks about the history and culture of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, which was once part of the Austro-Hungarian empire. She explains how the unique blend of Italian and Austrian influences has shaped the region's cuisine, and shares stories from her own experiences traveling through the area.

Overall, "Sauerkraut My Way" is a delicious and informative episode of Lidia's Italy that showcases the flavors and traditions of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. With its hearty soups, comforting pasta dishes, and unique take on sauerkraut, this episode is sure to inspire viewers to try out new recipes and explore the diverse cuisine of Italy.