Friends: The sandwich has become an integral part of American cuisine, and it isn't easy to imagine a world without it. Sandwiches are quick, easy, and satisfying meals that consumers enjoy on the go or in the comfort of one's homes. Let's briefly dive into the fascinating history of how the sandwich was born in America. As we know it today, the sandwich consists of two slices of bread, any bread, with a filling of some type in between. The sandwich originated in the 18th century, when John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, popularized the concept in England. Legend has it that the Earl of ..read more

Friends: Late last night, I decided to re-post some basic information on food safety after finishing one of my cooking classes. One of the participants kept asking questions that I believed most people would know the answer. I was wrong. Many people still need to understand cooking with safety and what it involves. So, here we go again! Regarding food safety, it is crucial to be mindful of certain food products more prone to contamination with harmful and invisible bacteria, such as E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella. These bacteria can result in severe illnesses if consumed and can be prese ..read more

Friends: Gregory S. from Stratford, Ontario, Canada, inquired about Skirt Steak. Here we go, Greg! Happy cooking. Skirt steak, a culinary treasure, is a beef cut from the plate section of the cow. Its standout feature is its distinct flavor, a delightful surprise for your taste buds. This cut's rich and beefy profile is a testament to its adaptability, ma… Read more ..read more

Friends: picture this: It's Easter time, and the air is filled with anticipation and the promise of something extraordinary. One cannot overlook the significance of Ricotta and Rice Easter pie in the Italian American kitchen. Back in the day, Lent meant abstaining from meat, a solemn observance leading up to the joyous celebration of Easter. It was a time of reflection and sacrifice, honoring a tradition that dates back generations. The reasons behind this prohibition are as varied as they are intriguing. Some say it was to support fishermen, while others believe it symbolized abstinence fr ..read more

Friends: Today is Good Friday for us Catholics, and I have many memories to share but not enough time. Growing up in Italy, the week was not so much on how often I had to play guitar in the church’s band but how quickly I could absorb the pleasant smell of baked sweets and savory pies released from every bakeshop and open window. It is traditionally made on Good Friday to be eaten on Easter Sunday or taken on the traditional Pasquetta or Easter Monday picnic. It can be made in a 15 x 13-inch rectangular baking dish or a 10-inch spring-form pan. You can use cubes or slices of meat and cheese ..read more

{Palermo’ Cathedral, Sicily} Friends: We hope this message finds you well and filled with excitement for culinary exploration! As a valued Flavors + Knowledge Newsletter community member, we're thrilled to extend a special invitation to join us for the Chef Walters Food + Wine Tour in Sicily, Italy. Scheduled from September 30 to October 7, 2024, this tour promises an immersive journey into the heart of Sicilian cuisine and culture. Led by renowned Chef Walters himself, each day will be an adventure filled with delectable flavors, fascinating insights, and unforgettable experiences. As a to ..read more

Friends: In the picturesque streets of Naples, Italy, Easter is celebrated with enthusiasm and flavor, and at the heart of this celebration lies a beloved tradition: Casatiello. This rustic and aromatic bread, laden with meats and cheeses, has been a staple of Neapolitan Easter tables for centuries. Its rich history and delightful taste make it a cherished part of the holiday season for families across the region. Read more ..read more

{Content and Image Attribution via Firenze Made in Tuscany} Friends: We feature the classic recipe from Firenze made in Tuscany to celebrate today's major Italian holiday. According to the tradition of the time, after escaping to Egypt with Mary and Jesus, San Giuseppe had to sell pancakes to support his family in the foreign land. For this very reason, all over Italy, these are the typical Father's Day sweets prepared to celebrate and commemorate the figure of San Giuseppe. Each city, province, or region has its variation. Still, the fundamental element that unites and distinguishes these ..read more

Friends: This week, I have been swamped responding to the Zeppole questions. I think publishing a brief article on its history and an original recipe may help alleviate the task. The Zeppole of San Giuseppe is a beloved Neapolitan dessert that has gained popularity throughout Italy and the world, especially among immigrant communities and their families. This cherished delicacy is traditionally prepared and enjoyed across Italy on Father's Day, celebrated on March 19th. It emphasizes Naples's culinary significance in Italy's cultural heritage. Multiple legends obscure the historical attribu ..read more

Friends: Since its outbreak in 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic has altered our way of life. Its impact on living, working, and eating has been monumental. One of the most profound and enduring changes has been observed in consumer behavior, particularly in food consumption. We are past those uncertain days, and probably you don’t enjoy reading about it again, but let’s explore the differences consumers noticed after COVID-19, delving into the challenges, changes, and emergence of the "New Food Normal." Before the pandemic, online grocery shopping was on the rise, but it accelerated during the ..read more