Ep 2. Notto Risotto

Lidia's Italy season 3 episode 2 titled Notto Risotto is all about exploring a simple yet flavorful Italian dish - risotto. Lidia, the host, heads to the Northern regions of Italy where the dish is believed to have originated. Along the way, she meets with locals to learn about different methods and styles of making the dish.

The episode begins with Lidia visiting a rice farm in the heart of Vercelli, an area renowned for its rice production and Risotto Tradition. The farmer explains how the region's climate, land, and water contribute to the unique rice qualities, and she picks up a few bags of the prized Carnaroli rice. She then heads to a local food market, where she discovers different ingredients used in making risotto, including fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheeses.

Moving on to the cooking, Lidia meets her friend in Piedmont, who teaches her a new way of making risotto using red wine instead of plain water. The dish, which they refer to as 'Amarone Risotto,' comes out looking and smelling heavenly. They sprinkle some grated cheese on top and serve the dish hot with a glass of chilled red wine, which complements the flavors perfectly.

In another segment, Lidia heads to the region of Lombardy to learn from the experts at the school of risotto. Here, she discovers some tricks and tips to make perfect risotto every time, including the importance of timing, the type of rice used, and the right balance of broth. She also discovers that contrary to popular belief, adding cream to risotto is not necessary, and that the dish can be just as creamy without it.

Next, she visits a Michelin starred restaurant in Milan that specializes in risotto. The chef shares his recipe for a seafood risotto, which is a classic Italian dish made with fresh seafood and zesty lemon. Lidia observes as he prepares an impeccable dish, and she eventually gets to try it and describe its flavor and texture.

The last part of the episode features Lidia visiting her Italian kitchen, where she shares her signature recipe for a mushroom risotto. She takes her time to explain each step, from slicing and dicing the mushrooms to making the risotto base and cooking the rice to the perfect doneness. The result is a creamy yet savory dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Overall, Lidia's Italy season 3 episode 2 is a fun and informative piece that celebrates the simple yet versatile dish that is risotto. It offers plenty of new ideas and inspiration for anyone who loves cooking Italian cuisine or wants to try their hand at making risotto. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, this episode is sure to leave you feeling inspired and hungry.