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Creating Balanced Flavors: Stuffed Lemons in the Oven
Published on 2012-05-23 03:26:04
Stuffed lemons with tomatoes, anchovies, basil & mozzarella is a delicious antipasto and perfect example of balancing flavors. We first tried this mouthwatering two-bite bit of heaven on the Almalfi Coast and have been recreating it ever since. Even though it is not a traditional dish of Le Marche, Jason likes to use it in his cooking classes to teach how to balance flavors in the kitchen: fat, acid, sweet, salty & aromatic. The creamy mozzarella subdues the tartness of the lemon; sweet cherry [..] > read more
How to Make Lick-Your-Plate Amazing Tiramisu
Published on 2012-05-18 09:40:07
This is one recipe worth recreating, a rich & creamy classic, tiramisu! > read more
Italian Spring Greens: Looks like Grass, Tastes like Spinach - but Better!
Published on 2012-05-15 15:51:39
Liscaro has more aliases than an escaped convict - in our neck of the woods it is called liscaro, but travel outside our valley and it goes by agretto, lischi, roscano, baciccio, barba del negus. Just another example of how regional & local the cooking (& language) is in Italy! If you like spinach then you will love liscaro (or whatever you prefer to call it) - the flavor is a bit more subtle than spinach & not as irony. Even though it looks like blades of grass, I assure it tastes nothing like [..] > read more
Going Hog-Wild in Urbino, Supporting Local Pig Farmers
Published on 2012-05-13 08:36:29
Urbino, a city renowned for its art, is also full of pigs! > read more
For the Brownie Lovers: Chocolate Nutella Walnut Cake
Published on 2012-05-10 15:33:32
If you're a fan of brownies - then this one is for you, big boys & girls! A rich chocolatey Nutella walnut cake that is > read more
Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution: Farm to Fork Cooking Class
Published on 2012-05-05 08:28:31
Join Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution Day on May 19th at La Tavola Marche for a very special farm to fork cooking class in Italy. > read more
Peasant Cooking: Passatelli in Brodo
Published on 2012-05-01 00:14:06
Passatelli is a rustic Italian pasta meets German spatzle, noodle/dumpling made of breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, eggs, nutmeg & lemon zest. Found on dinner tables across Le Marche & Emilia Romagna, passatelli is best served in chicken broth but can also be dressed with sauce. (Some recipes call for no flour, others just a handful - this is a hotly debated topic even within Le Marche.) > read more
The Onions are In (Thanks to My 88 Yr. Old Boy Friend!)
Published on 2012-04-28 15:40:05
Ahhh it feels good to be in the garden a hot sunny spring day. After such a wet few weeks it has been nice to soak up the warmth of the sun in the middle of the orto! > read more
The Real Deal: Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP, the Epitome of Slow Food
Published on 2012-04-22 06:57:51
Put down that caramel-colored watery condiment known as balsamic vinegar of Modena & try the real deal! (And trust me whatever you're using, no matter what you spent, 'aint this!) > read more
Green Thumb Gone Wrong: Dead Seedlings...
Published on 2012-04-20 07:10:49
We tend to celebrate our successes in the garden (& in life) but sometimes it just all goes awry! This year we started a ton of seedlings in early April, the weather was extra warm & sunny. We thought we'd get ahead of the game, we had hundreds of seeds started from melons & pumpkins to lettuces & herbs. > read more
Podcast from Italy: A Road Trip to Modena for the Best Balsamic in the World
Published on 2012-04-19 05:41:31
Easter has come & gone - we reminisce on the day & opera singing Zio Albi (in-case you missed the clip - watch it here: Easter Concerto). > read more
Spring Soup: Farro & Leek
Published on 2012-04-15 06:54:37
Homemade Sicilian Blood Orange Liqueur - Arancello
Published on 2012-04-10 09:11:29
An Unexpected Easter Concerto - Enjoy!
Published on 2012-04-08 13:49:20
You just never know what will happen at our farmhouse... During Easter pranzo (lunch) one of our guests, Zio Albi was so inspired by the food, company & setting that he couldn't contain himself any longer & had to sing opera! After the roaring applause, he continued to sing until his throat was hoarse. He asked for gelato, but alas we had none so he happily accepted the grappa & continued to entertain us all. Enjoy this clip of the impromptu Easter concert in our dinning room - > read more
Coming Home to Roost
Published on 2012-04-04 10:14:19
Welcome home to our new family of fowl! Eighteen hens & two young roosters arrived today. The hens will start laying eggs in about a month. Once their production begins we should have over a dozen eggs a day! I have no idea what breed they are, just like every other year, we order them from the hardware store in town (same place I buy the pure grain alcohol for my homemade liquors, seriously they have a bit of everything!) There doesn't seem to be a choice, we place our order, they call the loca [..] > read more
Spring in Bloom: Seedlings, Soil & Tulips
Published on 2012-03-30 09:57:30
The first few tulips of over 250 bulbs I planted in November have begun to pop open!Oh Happy Spring!! We are busy working our way through our spring-clean list of painting, scrubbing, mowing, fertilizing the garden with manure, starting seeds (these were planted over a week ago): seedlings for lettuces starting in the warm windowsil > read more
I Like My Peas with Pancetta
Published on 2012-03-25 07:46:32
Sweet peas have arrived at the farmers market, spring is here! Peas & pancetta - one of my favorite dishes that I only eat in Spring when the peas are bright & fresh. > read more
70 kilos of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Published on 2012-03-22 11:30:22
This week is the beginning of Spring & the start of the season at our inn which means it's time to replenish the supplies that we don't produce ourselves like wine & olive oil. So this week we drove to the Ancona area (Osimo) and bought 70 kilos of un-bottled, extra virgin olive oil! > read more
Podcast from Italy: I ♥ Gelato! Flavorful Interview with Artisan Gelato Makers
Published on 2012-03-17 01:34:44
We are excited to share an interview with our friends Antonio & Paola, owners of Gelateria Maki in Fano, our most favorite artisan gelato shop in the Region! They stopped by for a visit so we thought we'd ask a few burning questions about gelato: how is it different from ice cream, > read more
'Alfredo' for Adults: Pasta with Formaggio di Fossa
Published on 2012-03-12 06:01:07
For a rich, creamy, cheesy pasta sauce, skip the adolescent 'alfredo sauce' and try something more sophisticated: fresh pasta with formaggio di fossa (pecorino) or cheese from a pit, a pungent sheep's milk cheese from Le Marche, Italy. Formaggio di Fossa is considered one of the most delicious culinary rarities from Romagna and Marche with a unique flavor, deep coloring & strong aroma. This cheese is best grated over pasta or eaten with fruit & honey as dessert.Read more about our experience un [..] > read more
Slow Food: Heirloom & Nearly Extinct, the Italian Solfino Bean
Published on 2012-03-08 09:50:10
This spring we will plant an antique almost extinct bean, the solfino in our garden. I recently read an article from Le Marche & Food on Scoop.it about a rare flavorful bean from our region of Italy, I was intrigued. We pride ourselves on eating locally, growing our own food & supporting the values of Slow Food, so the thought of preserving a Marche heirloom seed from the dangers of extinction from industrial production was exciting! I contacted La Bona Usanza, the head of the local Slow Food co [..] > read more
Lick My Spoon Foodie Photos with Pasta with Zucchini Blossom Recipe
Published on 2012-03-04 14:17:59
The super talented, refreshingly tongue-in-cheek food blogger Stephanie Hua from Lick My Spoon visited us over the summer and snapped fabulous photos of dinners, cooking classes, veggie picking, tomato jarring and roaming chickens. I will post a few of her photos each week as well on our Facebook page. More photos: Lick My Spoon: Farm & Food in Italy Here are few photos from our pasta from scratch with sauces class - The Class Menu & Recipes:Tagliatelle with Zucchini & Squash Blossoms (pictur [..] > read more
Surprising Discovers in the Industrial Zones of Le Marche
Published on 2012-02-26 08:25:27
From the outside you'd never know what's going on behind those doors. Totally random tidbit: Next time you cruise past an industrial zone (zona industriale) in Le Marche - take a closer look, you'd be amazed at what's inside! From artisan meat & cheese warehouses, a Slow Food bean picking production (more on that on a later post), marble quarries & shoe makers but when we came across this 6-court sand volleyball tournament we couldn't believe our eyes! Volleyball tournament with our friend [..] > read more
Perfect Sunday Side Dish: Braised Fennel with White Wine
Published on 2012-02-26 08:24:51
Photo: Simply Recipes Fennel is a versatile vegetable that is often looked over for being too tough. Braising is a great way to soften this hearty root vegetable known to aid in digestion. The acidity & fruitiness of the wine compliments the aniseed flavored fennel and with a good drizzle of olive oil it finishes this dish perfectly. Serve with meat! Braised Fennel with White Wine finocchio al vino bianco 1 large fennel cut into chunks 2 cloves of garlic few tablespoons of olive oil pepper fl [..] > read more
Sausage & Salami Curing Update: 250lbs+ of Meaty Goodness
Published on 2012-02-23 10:15:13
Homemade dried sausages, ready to be eaten! As the snow began to fall in what is the biggest snowstorm of the century in Italy, we got to work making an additional 25 kilos of salami & sausages to be cured with our friend Milud (adding to our grand total of over 250 lbs of meat to be cured). This time we mixed it up a bit and made dried sausages with fennel seeds, spicy red pepper flakes and one with meat from a different farmer. Dr. Gaggi was just itching to be here to over-see the operation bu [..] > read more
Decadent Lasagna Bianco with Porcini & Sausage
Published on 2012-02-16 01:55:18
During the snow storm of the century in Central Italy, I can't think of a better way to warm up than devouring a plate of rich & creamy pasta with a good bottle of red after a day of shoveling the drive. Perfect for a cold winter's night, lasagna bianco, 'white lasagna' is made with porcini mushrooms, sausages & bechamel, a local classic in northern Le Marche. A refined take on the usual red sauce classic, that will have your mouthwatering for more after the first bite. Extra Delicious Tip: Ma [..] > read more
Podcast from Italy: Snowed-in Fireside Chat
Published on 2012-02-04 06:27:07
Italy is blasted by a Siberian storm & we are snowed-in! In a rare evening podcast from our frozen farmhouse we talk about things that come along with severe weather & living in the countryside that we've never experienced before! And as the snow accumulates to over 4 feet, we contemplate our next move.... (Check out the photos on Facebook: Snowmagedden 2012: Snow in Italy) Subscribe for Free on iTunes - Podcast from Italy, Episode #30: Snow, snow & more snow in ItalyStream on Stitcher.com > read more
Mineral Water Spring for Cooking, Drinking & Swimming at Italian Farm, Inn & Cooking School
Published on 2011-07-05 09:28:54
Forever young - Bathing in the mineral waters at La Tavola Marche Therapeutic Mineral Water Save on your spa holiday with a trip to Le Marche! Who would have thought that 8km outside of town,... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more
Podcast from Italy: Cow Herding, Rally Car Racing, Marche Wine & Jazz Fest
Published on 2011-06-29 03:54:36
So much going on! We participated in the annual transumanza - cow herding through Piobbico up to Mt. Nerone with family & friends. It's that time of year to start making homemade digestivi... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website > read more
Homemade Wild Cherry Liqueur - Visciolino
Published on 2011-06-27 15:03:32
A thriving local tradition in Le Marche is making homemade liqueur using pure alcohol or grappa infused with fruits & herbs such as visner & visciolino (cherry), nocino (walnut... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website fo > read more
Simple Summer Salad: Radish, Cucumber & Chive
Published on 2011-06-19 18:18:59
Radish & cucumber salad a is simple 5-minute summer salad! Fresh from the garden, our radishes are crisp & peppery, perfectly complimentaing the cool cucumbers. We added a little chive... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website f > read more
Simple Summer Salad: Radish, Cucumber & Chive
Published on 2011-06-19 18:18:59
Radish & cucumber salad a is simple 5-minute summer salad! Fresh from the garden, our radishes are crisp & peppery, perfectly complimentaing the cool cucumbers. We added a little... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for ful > read more
Yacht Trip & Fish Feast in Le Marche
Published on 2011-06-13 11:36:32
Sailing along the Adriatic in a wooden yacht, just off the coast of Fano in Le Marche, with the smell of grilled fish in the air and a glass of crisp white Verdicchio is one of the best ways to enjoy... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more
Yacht Trip & Fish Feast in Le Marche
Published on 2011-06-13 11:36:32
Sailing along the Adriatic in a wooden yacht, just off the coast of Fano in Le Marche, with the smell of grilled fish in the air and a glass of crisp white Verdicchio is one of the best ways to... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website > read more
Watch How to Make Wood Fired Pizza from Scratch in Italy
Published on 2011-06-08 04:04:58
Deep in the countryside of Central Italy, locals & foreigners mix & mingle long into the night, devouring the best wood-fired pizza in the area, sharing stories & laughter over liters of... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my web > read more
Watch How to Make Wood Fired Pizza from Scratch in Italy
Published on 2011-06-08 04:04:58
Deep in the countryside of Central Italy, locals & foreigners mix & mingle long into the night, devouring the best wood-fired pizza in the area, sharing stories & laughter over liters... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websit > read more
Green Travel in Italy: An Eco Friendly Farmhouse with Solar Heat Exchange
Published on 2011-06-05 11:29:19
We are excited to announce that our agriturismo has just gone green-er by installing solar heat exchange with panels on the roof, not only heating our water but radiators as well. This will... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websi > read more
Green Travel in Italy: An Eco Friendly Farmhouse with Solar Heat Exchange
Published on 2011-06-05 11:29:19
We are excited to announce that our agriturismo has just gone green-er by installing solar heat exchange with panels on the roof, not only heating our water but radiators as well. This... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website fo > read more
Podcast from Italy: June Events, Summer Recipes, Yacht Trip & Going Green-er
Published on 2011-06-03 06:21:17
After a busy May, we are back with a jam-packed podcast! Updates on our organic farm & what's in the ground, solar panels have been installed & the chickens. Plus Jason shares seasonal summer... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more
Podcast from Italy: June Events, Summer Recipes, Yacht Trip & Going Green-er
Published on 2011-06-03 06:21:17
After a busy May, we are back with a jam-packed podcast! Updates on our organic farm & what's in the ground, solar panels have been installed & the chickens. Plus Jason shares seasonal... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website f > read more
Summer Soup Recipe - Ribollita
Published on 2011-06-01 12:36:48
This is a fantastic spring or summer soup, light enough for a sunny day! Ribollita literally translates to reboiled and is a classic example of cucina povera, Italian peasant cooking, using... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for > read more
Summer Soup - Ribollita
Published on 2011-05-28 02:37:48
This is a fantastic spring or summer soup, light enough for a sunny day! Ribollita literally translates to reboiled and is a classic example of cucina povera, Italian peasant cooking, using stale... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websit > read more
Stuffed Eggplant: Bake until golden & bubbling...
Published on 2011-05-25 04:46:49
Need I say more?! Even if you are not a huge fan of eggplant this will keep you coming back for more. Just like a mini quiche tucked into nice tidy eggplant shell, just beggin' to be... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website f > read more
Easter Menu - Hardboiled Eggs with Salsa Verde
Published on 2011-05-25 04:44:55
Everything sounds better in Italian: ouva sode con salsa verde sounds a lot better than boiled eggs with green sauce. Don't let the name fool you it is simple yet delicate and an... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for ful > read more
Recommended: Car Rental in Italy
Published on 2011-05-25 04:43:15
The best way to see Italy and Europe for that matter is with your own set of wheels. I was once told by our friend Vicenzo in his deepest Italian accent speaking perfectly broken English,... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for f > read more
Easter in Italy: Festivals, Feasts & Slow Food
Published on 2011-05-25 04:42:13
In Central Italy's region of Le Marche we are all abuzz for Easter! The butchers began taking orders for lamb days ago, our neighbor Pia has made dozens of the traditional Easter bread... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for > read more
All Coop'd Up - Raising Free Range Chickens
Published on 2011-05-25 04:02:58
Raising free-range chickens isn't always easy, the wood are filled with hungry animals licking their chops for a taste of our plump fowl. We had been warned, and it finally happened - a full... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websi > read more
Cleanest Beaches in Italy: Along the Adriatic in Le Marche
Published on 2011-05-20 10:31:04
The Adriatic Coast in Le Marche Just another reason to visit lovely Le Marche - its pristine eco friendly beaches!Sixteen beaches along the Adriatic Sea in Le Marche have been awarded the Blue... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my web > read more
Recipes from Italy: Artichoke Hearts with Fresh Pasta
Published on 2011-05-15 07:38:46
As artichoke season is winding to an end in our area, it is only fitting to honor this edible flower with a lovely light spring pasta! Whether you’ve eaten artichokes for years or you’re about to try... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit m > read more
Stuffed Eggplant: Bake until golden & bubbling...
Published on 2011-05-11 13:13:28
Need I say more?! Even if you are not a huge fan of eggplant this will keep you coming back for more. Just like a mini quiche tucked into nice tidy eggplant shell, just beggin' to be eaten!... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more
Italy Spring Fever Sale: 20% Off Organic Farm Holiday in June
Published on 2011-05-08 04:33:45
From the Adriatic Sea to the Apennine Mountains - Le Marche, Italy Spring Fever? Book Your Italian Getaway Now! Warm sunny days, markets streets overflowing with fresh fruits &... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for > read more
Organic Living: The Benefits of Compost
Published on 2011-05-01 09:38:35
Dark Rich Compost Over three years ago we built our compost bin and we have finally broken it open & reaping its dirty benefits! (Read our original post on Composting) Hundreds of pounds... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my webs > read more
Podcast from Italy: Food, Farm & Feasts with Easter Menu & Local Traditions
Published on 2011-04-27 15:58:44
Rossana & her chocolate Easter egg This all about food & the farm with an Easter wrap-up. We chat about our Easter menu & the local traditions with an interview with friends Giorgio ... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my webs > read more
Rome in a Whirlwind, Only 6 Hours in the Eternal City
Published on 2011-04-25 12:23:23
It is entirely possible to see almost everything in under 6 hours in Rome. Ok, not everything but enough to fill your photo album and Facebook your friends! For those of you that are art... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for fu > read more
Easter Menu - Hardboiled Eggs with Salsa Verde
Published on 2011-04-23 09:37:14
Everything sounds better in Italian: ouva sode con salsa verde sounds a lot better than boiled eggs with green sauce. Don't let the name fool you it is simple yet delicate and an Easter... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website > read more
Easter in Italy: Festivals, Feasts & Slow Food
Published on 2011-04-20 17:59:38
In Central Italy's region of Le Marche we are all abuzz for Easter! The butchers began taking orders for lamb days ago, our neighbor Pia has made dozens of the traditional Easter bread slowly... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my webs > read more
Recommended: Car Rental in Italy
Published on 2011-04-15 15:52:55
The best way to see Italy and Europe for that matter is with your own set of wheels. I was once told by our friend Vicenzo in his deepest Italian accent speaking perfectly broken English, "Italians... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my web > read more
Podcast from Italy: 10 Ways to Save Money in Italy and How to Order/Shop at the Market
Published on 2011-04-13 14:31:20
Jason slowly watering the young onions This week after a whirlwind trip to Rome, Jason & Ashley share their Top 10 Ways to Save Money on your next trip to Italy including cheap car rental.... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more
Tongue Tingling Pasta ~ Stinging Nettle Ravioli with Butter & Sage
Published on 2011-04-10 05:14:26
Stinging nettle or ortica Eat your weeds! We like to eat wild out here in Italy & by that I mean forage for our food. In the spring the fields are full of wild edibles ready to be eaten.... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my webs > read more
Heavenly Artichoke Risotto
Published on 2011-04-08 00:52:09
Jason made this for dinner last night so I just had to re-post and share this delicious spring recipe! Crates of artichokes at the Saturday market in Fano Overflowing crates of artichokes fill... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my web > read more
Podcast from Italy: Top 10 Day Trips in Tuscany, Umbria & Le Marche Plus A Funny Frog Festival
Published on 2011-04-05 17:35:27
Field of wild daffodils along around road Ciao tutti- Spring is in full swing & its hard work being an organic farmer! Fields are full of wild poppies & daffodils, the salami are... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my web > read more
The Italian Man Who Went To Malta
Published on 2011-04-03 15:25:41
This short animated film is an irreverent & hysterical look at the subtle language difference and accent in English for an Italian man. Watch it, seriously its funny & spot on! The Man Who... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more
Eating Wild: Bitter Spring Greens
Published on 2011-04-03 02:50:36
wild greens in the field 'Tis the season for fields full of ladies carefully picking bags full of wild bitter greens.In the Candigliano Valley (Le Marche, Italy) our fields are peppered with wild... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websit > read more
Podcast from Italy: Interview with Giorgio and Michele from the ProLoco and The Three Stages Of Drunkenness
Published on 2011-04-02 02:37:07
Download & Subscribe to our Podcast from Italy on iTunesStream our Podcast from Italy on Stitcher Join us this week in part 1 as we interview our friends and members of the ProLoco of... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website > read more
Italy's Artisans: Hand Painted Ceramics Majolica
Published on 2011-03-29 11:00:23
The picturesque city of Deruta, Italy has been the center of the world for majolica (maoilche) ceramics since the 1200's. Majolica is referred to as the beautiful ceramics prepared by tin-glazing... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websit > read more
A Handful of Truffles from a Stranger...Reason 101 Why I Love Living in Le Marche
Published on 2011-03-26 02:00:38
On my way home today I was met by a jovial truffle hunter in the road, he flagged me down to say hello. He asked in deep dialect if I was the American from Ca'Camone (the name of our house... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website > read more
Slow Travel Italy: June 5-Night Food & Wine Holiday in Le Marche 1,550 Euro/Couple
Published on 2011-03-24 03:14:34
Experience Slow Travel, living as the locals and enjoy the culture, food & wine of undiscovered Le Marche. Including a VIP wine tour and "farm to fork" cooking classes featured in... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websit > read more
Podcast from Italy: Eating Wild, Hens from the Hardware Store & Never Trust the GPS
Published on 2011-03-21 15:32:21
The kitchen is coming along with new tile, plus the stove & oven are in! This weeks episode from Podcast from Italy we update the "State of Ca'Camone," discuss buying hens at the hardware ... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website > read more
Our NEW Monthly Column in Taste Italia Magazine
Published on 2011-03-19 04:19:12
Jason & I are excited to announce that after two and half years of writing a monthly column in Italia! Magazine about lives in Le Marche, the Editor has asked us to contribute to their sister... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websit > read more
150 Years of Unified Italy!
Published on 2011-03-17 03:57:00
When you think of Italy thousands of years of history & civilization come to mind, but as a unified country Italy is relatively young. Today on the 17th of March 2011 Italy celebrates 150 year of... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more
Podcast from Italy: Ides of March, Home Renovations & La Bella Figura
Published on 2011-03-15 05:32:34
never-ending home renovations - where the oven/stove should be.... This week's episode: Ides of March, guests arrive in 10 days & the kitchen is a disaster, much anticipated announcement of "Cat... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more
Sauteed Spinach - Garlicky Goodness!
Published on 2011-03-13 10:40:26
It doesn't get any simpler than sauteed spinach! When its done right I can't get enough of that garlicky goodness, when its mushy - its an inedible mess. (The key is in the squeeze! Read below) We... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websi > read more
Carnival Sweets ~ Castagnole, Italian Fritters
Published on 2011-03-13 10:40:02
What better way to celebrate Carnival & Fat Tuesday than with fritters fried in pork fat! Castagnole are a specialty of Carnevale and eaten across Italy during this period. The name castagnole... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websi > read more
Peposo - Slow Cooked, Peppery Veal Stew
Published on 2011-03-13 03:38:22
Originally from Tuscany, Peposo is a meaty, peppery, spicy stew that is slow food at its best. As with most recipes in Italy, the ingredients vary town to town. In our area of Le Marche we use... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my webs > read more
Peposo - Slow Cooked, Peppery Veal Stew
Published on 2011-03-13 03:30:00
Originally from Tuscany, Peposo is a meaty, peppery, spicy stew that is slow food at its best. As with most recipes in Italy, the ingredients vary town to town. In our area of Le Marche we use wine & juniper berries creating a rich bold flav > read more
Website & Email DOWN
Published on 2011-03-12 13:00:38
Please bear with us as the website is currently under construction & our email server is down. We are working as fast as possible to fix the problems. In the meantime, thank you for your patience... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more
Website & Email DOWN
Published on 2011-03-12 13:00:00
Please bear with us as the website is currently under construction & our email server is down. We are working as fast as possible to fix the problems. In the meantime, thank you for your patience & you can email inquiries & bookings: > read more
Podcast from Italy: Interview with Fabio, Festa della Donna & the "Baywatch"
Published on 2011-03-11 03:25:53
Doing the "Baywatch," celebrating Festa della Donna & Fat Tuesday and an interview with our friend Fabio. This week's podcast is jam packed with updates from our farmhouse and a great interview... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more
Podcast from Italy: Interview with Fabio, Festa della Donna & the "Baywatch"
Published on 2011-03-11 03:25:00
Doing the "Baywatch," celebrating Festa della Donna & Fat Tuesday and an interview with our friend Fabio. This week's podcast is jam packed with updates from our farmhouse and a great interview with Fabio, reminiscing of his college years in t > read more
Carnival Sweets ~ Castagnole, Italian Fritters
Published on 2011-03-06 04:06:00
What better way to celebrate Carnival & Fat Tuesday than with fritters fried in pork fat! Castagnole are a specialty of Carnevale and eaten across Italy during this period. The name castagnole derives from the word castagna or chestnut because of > read more
Podcast from Italy: San Remo Song Festival, Frustrations with Immigrations & Health Care in Italy
Published on 2011-03-04 00:00:07
Podcast #17 and we're snowed-in again!After a week-off with a broken computer & stuck in the snow we update on the happenings of rural Le Marche. We announce the winner of the Italian Song... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website > read more
Podcast from Italy: San Remo Song Festival, Frustrations with Immigrations & Health Care in Italy
Published on 2011-03-04 00:00:00
Podcast #17 and we're snowed-in again!After a week-off with a broken computer & stuck in the snow we update on the happenings of rural Le Marche. We announce the winner of the Italian Song Festival of San Remo, get ready for Carnival in Piobbi > read more
Italy's Artisans: Hand Printed Linens since 1826
Published on 2011-03-02 12:45:01
Italy's rich tradition of artisan handicrafts lives on with a charming, seventh generation family-run hand-printed linens shop. From 1826 until today, just inland off the Adriatic Coast in... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website fo > read more
Italy's Artisans: Hand Printed Linens since 1826
Published on 2011-03-02 12:05:00
Italy's rich tradition of artisan handicrafts lives on with a charming, seventh generation family-run hand-printed linens shop.From 1826 until today, just inland off the Adriatic Coast in Gambettola (Emiglia Romagna, Italy), lies the Pascucci w > read more
Love, Murder & Monarchy ~ Gradara
Published on 2011-02-28 01:34:36
...not to mention a pretty incredible view!With the original structure built in 1150, this fortress has seen at least a few years of drama, war & love to say the least. By the 14th Century the... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my webs > read more
Love, Murder & Monarchy ~ Gradara
Published on 2011-02-28 00:55:00
...not to mention a pretty incredible view!With the original structure built in 1150, this fortress has seen at least a few years of drama, war & love to say the least. By the 14th Century the Malaesta family had enclosed the town below the cast > read more
Podcast from Italy: So you want to move to Italy, now what?! And - How to order a caffe!
Published on 2011-02-15 05:51:30
Episode # 16 is up on iTunes! So, you want to move to Italy, now what?! We get this question all the time, so we decided to breakdown a few of our top answers on taking the 1st steps to moving to... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more
Podcast from Italy: So you want to move to Italy, now what?! And - How to order a caffe!
Published on 2011-02-15 05:51:00
Episode # 16 is up on iTunes! So, you want to move to Italy, now what?! We get this question all the time, so we decided to breakdown a few of our top answers on taking the 1st steps to moving to Italy from language lessons to estate agents! This > read more
Sauteed Spinach - Garlicky Goodness!
Published on 2011-02-12 04:31:00
It doesn't get any simpler than sauteed spinach! When its done right I can't get enough of that garlicky goodness, when its mushy - its an inedible mess. (The key is in the squeeze! Read below) We grow loads of spinach, which requires lots of washing > read more
Romantic Italian Gourmet Getaway for 600 Euro/Couple - Now That's Amore in Le Marche!
Published on 2011-02-10 13:45:00
I spell Valentine's Day: I-t-a-l-y!Forget the roses & whitman's chocolates, make her swoon! Nothing says "I love You" like a holiday in Italy - the home of passion, romance & wine. Combine the ancient history & romance of Rome with a stay > read more
Podcast from Italy: Top 10 Places to Visit “Off the Beaten Path” in Italy & Deserts made with Pork Fat
Published on 2011-02-08 09:41:00
Ashley & Jason in Ischia This week Jason & Ashley chat about their favorite places to visit in Italy "off the beaten path" and what to eat once you are there. From north to south there are a few hidden jewels to add to your list for > read more
World Nutella Day - A Finger Lickn' Good Holiday!
Published on 2011-02-05 12:37:00
What better way to celebrate World Nutella Day but with a simply delicious Nutella recipe - think Nutella-walnut-brownie! If you are a fan of peanut butter - then get out a spoon & dig-in to Nutella! Italians opt for the hazelnut over the p > read more
Podcast from Italy: From Artichokes to Politics, Pottery to Charcuterie
Published on 2011-02-02 13:33:00
This weeks podcast is jam-packed! We chat about the process of taking raw pork & making cured sausages & salami. We visit Deruta in Umbria the home of Majolica pottery to make a big purchase at a discounted price! Plus commentary on > read more
Charcuterie in Italy ~ Curing 150 lbs of Salami & Sausages
Published on 2011-01-30 04:52:00
Vittorio & Jason in the zoneLast week we made our yearly pilgrimage to "Vittorio's Meat Laboratory" along the Adriatic Sea. There is no sign along the road, just a massive palm tree out front & a tiny unassuming converted garage in the back - > read more
Podcast from Italy: Snowed-in & Holiday Wrap
Published on 2011-01-26 10:11:00
Head to iTunes to download & listen to our infamous podcast from Italy. We took a few months off, but after being snowed in for 4 days with a light case of cabin fever we decided to fire-up the mics & start podcasting again!!Listen to & S > read more
Italian Home Cookin' ~ Potato & Cabbage Mash
Published on 2011-01-21 08:09:00
Nothing says home cookin' like mashed potatoes. For a "new" spin try the classic rustic Italian recipe of Potato & Cabbage Mash (Lesso di Patae e Cavolo Verza) by adding cabbage to boost the flavor. You can't get any more simplistic - a pe > read more
Braised Lamb Shanks ~ The Best Use of Cankles
Published on 2011-01-14 02:00:00
Cankles are calves that become feet without taking an ankle break. On a cow, pig or lamb - the meatier the better!“I love braising meat" says Jason with a smile, "you take a tough cut, slow cook it & it turns into a wonderfully delicious hearty > read more
One Night in Naples ~ Dirty, Gritty, Delicious
Published on 2011-01-11 11:58:00
For a last minute weekend getaway we spent one night in Naples ~ Napoli. The city is everything our village is not - loud, dirty, gritty, chaotic & wild, with tons of traffic & maniac drivers. But there is something about it that I love! We h > read more
The Living Nativity in Italy: Due to Rain Delay Baby Jesus has Just Been Born...
Published on 2011-01-07 12:02:00
... in Piobbico, (Le Marche) Italy!The annual living nativity or presepe vivente in our little town of Piobbico was originally canceled because of horrible weather. But a week later on the 2nd of January we joined 200 other Piobbichese (local v > read more
Cheers!
Published on 2010-12-22 01:33:00
Happy Holidays from our snow covered village of Piobbico. We're busy baking cookies, roasting chestnuts & ready to start curing meat! Thank you all so very much for reading our blog, tuning in to our podcast, adding comments, testing our recipes > read more
Osso Buco - Eat This Immediately
Published on 2010-12-19 01:07:00
Osso buco, now here's a great winters dish that is so simple to make. Most have heard of osso buco, but what is it? What literally translates as 'bone's hole' is simply an inch & a half slab of veal shank. There is a good amount of tough mea > read more
Picking Olives in Italy - The Harvest & Cold Press
Published on 2010-12-17 05:10:00
We recently got a call from our friend Marco inviting us to help his family pick olives in southern Le Marche. How 'quintessentially Italian' I thought, of course we're in - are you kidding!? I have always wanted to pick olives! We grabbed our > read more