Synopses & Reviews
Patrizia Chen's childhood was suffused with the scent of simmering pots of cacciucco -- a local, hearty seafood stew -- and that of the pittosporum bushes blooming along the coast. Her family's home and sumptuous garden in the Tuscan seaside town of Livorno feature prominently in this mesmerizing book that weaves together simple, delicious recipes with a love of home, family, nature, and above all, food.
In the spacious, sun-drenched kitchen and adjoining herb garden, the family cook, Emilia, takes Patrizia under her wing, disclosing her cooking secrets. The young girl learns everything from how to make luscious tomato sauce to rescuing "crazy" (curdled) mayonnaise, and in the process forms a special bond with Emilia. Patrizia's grandmother, Nonna Valentina, manages the house during lean times and finds ways to turn the garden into a playground paradise for Patrizia and her siblings, transforming flower petals into a special beauty treatment or sage leaves into toothbrush and toothpaste all in one.
From white Carrara marble terraces to antique chamber pots, sacks of chestnut flour to coal-burning stoves, the house, kitchen, and garden come alive through Chen's vivid descriptions and charming anecdotes. Each chapter includes recipes for the authentic Tuscan dishes that Emilia loved to make -- from aromatic pastas to delectable desserts. Armchair travelers, food lovers, and memoir enthusiasts alike will delight in this evocative and captivating narrative.
Synopsis
Featuring 25 authentic Tuscan recipes, this cookbook/memoir is by an Italian home chef who tells the story of her childhood in post-World War II Tuscany, and of the beloved family cook who taught her every kitchen secret. 16 photos.
About the Author
Patrizia Chen has lived in Japan and currently resides in New York City and Todi, Italy, with her husband. She has been a correspondent for numerous Italian publications.