Uncovering Authentic Italian Food

Why is the Red Onion of Tropea so sweet compared to other onions?

In this episode, we explore the history, terroir, and cultural significance of one of Calabria’s most iconic ingredients: the Cipolla Rossa di Tropea Calabria IGP. From the coastal climate and mineral-rich soils that shape its flavor to the many ways it’s enjoyed in southern Italian cuisine, discover why this humble onion has become a symbol of regional id...

What if you could "hear" a pasta before you taste it?

In this episode, we explore pasta alla chitarra, a traditional dish from Abruzzo made using a unique tool (chitarra = guitar) that cuts pasta with thin metal wires—creating both its signature shape and sound.

From its 19th-century origins to its role in everyday life, discover how this simple pasta reflects the deeper connection between food, tradition, and place in Italian ...

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This is a side of Italy most people never get to experience!

Where: Abruzzo and Molise, Italy

When: July 19–28, 2026

Who: Small group (max 10 people)

Click here for trip details and booking!

Below are just a few highlights of this tour. There is much more!! Message me for more information!

I’m taking a small group to Abruzzo and Molise — regions where traditions are still alive and deeply connected to food,...

What exactly is a supplì, and why do Romans call it al telefono?

In this episode, we break down one of Rome’s most iconic street foods—from its 19th-century origins and French-influenced name to the famous stretch of melted mozzarella that gave it its nickname. We also clarify one of the most common misconceptions: why supplì and Sicilian arancini are not the same thing.

A short episode about history, street food, and how...

You’ve probably heard the story—tiramisù was created in a brothel to “pick people up.”

But how much of that is actually true?

In this episode, we explore the famous tiramisù legend, and then dive into the real history behind one of Italy’s most iconic desserts. From its likely origins in Treviso in the 1960s–70s to its deeper roots in traditional preparations like lo sbattuto (sbatutin), discover h...

On March 19th, Italians celebrate St. Joseph’s Day—and the feast comes with iconic pastries. But depending on where you are in Italy, the traditional dessert can look very different.

In this episode, we explore the difference between Zeppole di San Giuseppe from Naples and Sfince di San Giuseppe from Sicily. From choux pastry filled with crema and topped with amarena cherries to ricotta-covered fried dough decorated with...

What do Italians eat on the first Friday of Lent?

No meat—but definitely no shortage of flavor. In this episode, we explore Italy’s meatless traditions, from classic fish dishes like baccalà to the plant-based brilliance of cucina povera. Long before the words “vegetarian” or “vegan” existed, Italian kitchens were creating simple, seasonal meals rooted in necessity, faith, and culture.

A short refl...

We are in the middle of the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics in Italy—but what do athletes and locals eat in the host towns?

In this episode, we take a culinary tour of Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Bormio, Livigno, Predazzo, Tesero, and Anterselva. From Milan’s saffron risotto to Valtellina’s Pizzoccheri and Anterselva’s Tyrolean desserts, discover how each town’s traditional dishes reflect geogra...

Italy has a dedicated food police—and it tells us a lot about how seriously the country takes food.

In this episode, I explain who the "Carabinieri per la Tutela Agroalimentare" are, what they do, and how they differ from Italy’s NAS ("Nuclei Antisofisticazioni e Sanità") and from the U.S. FDA. I also explore why these units exist, how unique they are in the world, and what they reveal about the value of food quality, tr...

Italian cuisine and Italian American cuisine share the same roots—but they are not the same thing.

In this episode, I explore how Italian American cuisine was born from immigration, adaptation, and abundance, and how it became a cultural ambassador that introduced millions of Americans to Italian flavors. I also explain why it’s important to distinguish Italian cuisine from Italian American cuisine, so we can respect bot...

Today, “Made in Italy” is synonymous with quality—but it didn’t always mean that.

In this short episode, I explore the origins of the term “Made in Italy,” how it evolved from a simple country-of-origin label into a global symbol of excellence, and what it truly represents today—especially in the world of food. I also explain why the phrase is always used in English, even in Italy, and why u...

After a long break, I’m back with a short reflection on the new US Eat Real Food pyramid and why it’s a positive step forward.

In this episode, I explore how this new US food pyramid "Eat Real Food" emphasizes real, high-quality ingredients and why the true meaning of diet is about lifestyle, not restriction. I also explain how elements like mindful eating, movement, and shared meals—so central to the Mediterranean...

Not all balsamic vinegar is created equal—and most people don’t realize there are two protected types. In this episode, we focus on Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP (Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI)—the more widely available, yet often misunderstood version. You’ll learn how it’s made, what the PGI seal really means, and how to spot authentic bottles from the Italian sounding ones. We’ll also explore...

In this episode, I’m reporting from the Filitalia International Convention—an event dedicated to preserving Italian heritage, language, and culture across generations. Join me as I connect with passionate members of the Italian American community, explore the mission behind Filitalia, and reflect on the role organizations like this play in promoting true Italian identity. This episode is all about keeping our roots aliv...

We explore the surprising connection between two powerful expressions of Italian culture: food and dance. Our guest, Anna Harsh—award-winning choreographer and founder of Allegro Dance Company—has spent her life preserving traditional Italian dances that, like regional recipes, are passed down through generations. We talk about how movement and mealtime often go hand-in-hand at Italian celebrations, how regional cu...