Monthly Archives: October 2013

Marche is (actually ARE ) Good !

There was much talk on facebook (and in real life too naturally) of the Marche in New York City recently, via a programme called “Marche Is Good” — a month long October celebration of this Region of Italy’s bounty (http://www.marcheisgood.com/ and http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/10/prweb11175654.htm) and … Continue reading

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Roman Rooftops in October and La Grande Bellezza

This isn’t a post about food, not as such.  I do think, however, that images that ‘feed’ one’s eyes and soul often have a way of eventually inspiring menus in the kitchen.  The mild weather in Rome during October, with … Continue reading

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Fattoria di Fiorano and its Shops (3)

Chef Sara Bugiada allowed us a glimpse of her prep work in the kitchen, before escorting us to the farm’s two little shops. Flowers in a vase – the ultimate kitchen accent piece.    Sara explained to us how all … Continue reading

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Fattoria di Fiorano – A bevy of country bounty (2)

The Fattoria di Fiorano is on Via di Fioranello which links the modern Appia to Via dell’Ardeatina – I consider it to be one of the most beautiful roads this side of Rome’s infamous Ring Road (Grande Raccordo Anulare, GRA) … Continue reading

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The Flowers of Fiorano – Background (1)

Until 1960 when Fiumicino took over, Ciampino Airport was the main hub for travel to Rome in an age where aeroplanes were still fitted out with propellers.  My widowed mother used to work at Ciampino Airport for Scandinavia’s SAS airline … Continue reading

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Egg Pasta Squares and Peas – Quadrucci con i Piselli

Despite what non-bloggers may think, meeting people through the virtual world of blogs can be a very engaging occupation and though perforce vicarious and ‘loose’ as experience goes, it is not without rules of etiquette and social intercourse.  It is … Continue reading

Posted in Basic Techniques, Primi (first courses - usually a pasta or risotto), Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , | 12 Comments

Pumpkin Barley Orzotto (not Risotto) – Orzotto alla Mantovana

Invited to an inauguration for future cooking classes in a fine kitchen-ware shop called “Ottagoni” in  Rome’s Trastevere area last week ….. I espied a lone-looking chef deep within the bowels of this snazzy showroom selling Cesar kitchens.  I would … Continue reading

Posted in Basic Techniques, italian home food, Primi (first courses - usually a pasta or risotto) | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments