Ep 16. Yodeling in the Alto Piano

Lidia's Italy Season 3 Episode 16, titled "Yodeling in the Alto Piano," takes viewers on a culinary journey through the stunning region of Trentino-Alto Adige. This mountainous region in northern Italy is known for its breathtaking scenery and unique culinary traditions that draw on both Austrian and Italian influences. In this episode, host Lidia Bastianich explores the region's food culture, meeting with local producers and chefs to learn about the ingredients and techniques that make this region's cuisine so special.

Throughout the episode, Lidia travels through the region's winding mountain roads and verdant valleys, taking in the stunning natural beauty of the region. Along the way, she explores the traditional food markets and meets with local artisans, including cheese makers, farmers, and bakers, who share their expertise and passion for their craft.

One of the highlights of the episode is Lidia's visit to a traditional Alpine dairy farm, where she watches as the local cheese makers transform milk from their cows into delicious cheeses. She also gets to sample a variety of cheeses, including the famous Stelvio and Grana Trentino, and even tries her hand at making cheese herself.

Next, Lidia visits a local farm where she learns about the art of apple production in the region. Trentino-Alto Adige is known for its crisp apples, which are used in a variety of local dishes. Lidia gets to sample some of the local apple specialties, including strudel and apple cake, and even learns to make her own apple juice.

Throughout the episode, Lidia also explores the region's unique culinary traditions, which blend Italian and Austrian influences. She visits a local inn where she learns about the art of making dumplings and other traditional dishes, and also visits a local brewery where she discovers the rich beer-making traditions of the region.

The episode culminates in a festive dinner party where Lidia cooks up a feast for her new friends and shares some of the region's most delicious dishes. She prepares a variety of local specialties, including potato and cheese dumplings, roasted meats, and a decadent apple strudel dessert.

Overall, "Yodeling in the Alto Piano" is a delightful and informative episode that showcases the unique culinary traditions and breathtaking beauty of Trentino-Alto Adige. Lidia's passion for food and her warm personality shine through, making this episode a must-see for anyone interested in Italian cuisine or the beauty of northern Italy.