Ep 11. Italy's Heartland

Lidia's Kitchen Season 6 Episode 11, titled "Italy's Heartland," takes viewers on a culinary journey through the central region of Italy known as Emilia-Romagna. Lidia Bastianich, the celebrated chef and host, immerses herself in the region’s rich food culture and history, showcasing the traditional dishes that have garnered a reputation as some of Italy's most iconic culinary delights.

In the episode, Lidia shares her expertise, as she prepares a selection of dishes that capture the essence of Emilia-Romagna's cuisine. From the delicious pasta dishes to the appetizing antipasti, Lidia's recipes are sure to delight the palates of food enthusiasts.

Viewers start by following Lidia on a trip to the vibrant local markets, where she sources the freshest ingredients for her recipes. They then join her in the kitchen, as she uses her trademark techniques to transform these ingredients into culinary masterpieces.

Lidia’s first dish is a classic antipasto, the Emilia-Romagna signature starter, the ‘sfoglia di formaggi e salumi.’ The dish is a selection of cured meats and cheeses, arranged in a spiral pastry sheet, which is baked to perfection. She then prepares a delicious pasta dish, known as ‘tortellini in brodo,’ which consists of small parcels of pasta that are filled with cheese and meat. The dish is served in a savory broth, and the rich umami flavors of the filling make it an instant hit.

Next up is ‘cipolla ripiena’ or the stuffed onion, which is a dish that epitomizes Emilia-Romagna's simple yet sumptuous cuisine. Lidia stuffs the onions with a mixture of bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese, before baking them until they are golden brown and crisp. The dish is a delightfully comforting side to any meal.

Lidia also shares the secret to making pasta dough from scratch, a technique that has been passed down through generations in Emilia-Romagna. She prepares a dish of ‘tagliatelle burro e salvia,’ a simple yet delicious pasta in which the noodles are coated in a sage-infused butter sauce. The dish is perfect for showcasing the delicate flavor and texture of fresh pasta.

To round off the meal, Lidia prepares a dessert, the ‘dolce di ricotta con fragole.’ The dessert is a light, creamy ricotta cheesecake, served with fresh strawberries, and it is the perfect way to finish the meal on a sweet note.

Throughout the episode, Lidia provides insights into Emilia-Romagna's rich food culture and history, highlighting the regional differences and unique ingredients that make the region's cuisine so distinctive. From the rich, creamy flavors of Parmesan cheese to the savory, umami flavors of cured meats, Emilia-Romagna's cuisine has something for every palate.

Overall, Lidia's Kitchen Season 6 Episode 11, "Italy's Heartland," is a delightful exploration of Emilia-Romagna's cuisine, showcasing the region's traditional dishes and ingredients in a way that is accessible and easy to replicate at home. Lidia's passion for cooking and her expertise make this episode a must-watch for anyone who loves Italian food or who is curious about one of Italy's lesser-known culinary regions.