Why not study …
Written by admin on 9 November, 2009 – 11:59 pm -
… truffles!!
At the Centro Nazionale Studi Tartufo in Alba, Piedmont, you can learn all about this costly delicacy:
- what it is
- the various species available
- the difference between the white and black varieties
- stories and legends
- discover the technical terms using the glossary
- when to pick them
- download an information leaflet
Whilst enquiring about the centre I was taught how to distinguish (using the sense of smell) between a freshly picked (not ready), mature (perfect for eating) and old (rotten and past it!) truffle. Now I shouldn’t get ripped off when I go shopping for them!!
What do you think of truffles? Please let me know your experiences of them.
Posted in Food & Drink, Interactive | 2 Comments »
Rules for the Perfect Coffee: Translation – Part 2
Written by admin on 26 October, 2009 – 10:46 am -
Way back in May I published two sets of rules for the perfect coffee (as promoted by the Istituto Nazionale Espresso Italiano). I only made available one translation. Belatedly here is the second. I apologize for the delay.
“The Italian espresso is characterized by a hazelnut-coloured cream with a tendency towards very dark brown & yellowish-brown hues. Its texture is very thick so that it meshes without bubbles. It gives off an intense aroma and it is possible to detect a variety of notes: flower, fruit, toasted bread and chocolate, all of which are persistent and remain even after swallowing – a sensation that can last for several minutes. The flavour is full, solid and velvet-like, the bitter taste is well balanced and there is no sharpness.”
The Golden Rule: 25 millimetres in 25 seconds.
Posted in Food & Drink, Language | 2 Comments »
The Big Interview
Written by admin on 13 October, 2009 – 4:11 pm -
Three weeks ago I attended Cheese 2009 in the city of Bra, Piedmont. Whilst there I was lucky enough to snatch an interview with the Big Cheese himself. Here’s what he had to say.
What is “Cheese”?
It is a yearly event that teaches visitors all about the making of quality cheeses, like myself. In particular it emphasizes respect for the environment and local cultures and pays tribute to the skill of the master cheesemaker. This event alternates yearly between Bra and Turin.
How long does it last?
This year it takes place from 18 – 21 September. Four days usually is long enough for people to have a good time surrounded by cheese. I myself, am quite worn out by the end of it. There’s so much to do. Lots of interviews too.
Who is exhibiting?
Many regions and countries are here to display their produce, filling the streets with wonderful aromas. Visitors can browse and taste. It’s like a busy marketplace. But it’s not just about cheese. Slow Food, the movement founded by Carlo Petrini and organizers of this great event, have set up workshops, wine and beer tastings, dinner dates and other attractions.
Can you expand on that a bit?
Of course.
Posted in Culture, Food & Drink | 1 Comment »
A Step Back in Time
Written by admin on 23 August, 2009 – 7:19 pm -
This year I spent my annual holiday back in Great Britain, visiting my parents. What a shock I was in for. I thought I would be escaping the Italians for a couple of weeks. Not so. I found that the Romans are still keeping things under control!
Posted in Food & Drink, History, Travel | 3 Comments »
Coffee & Culture. Exploring Italy’s First Capital.
Written by admin on 30 June, 2009 – 8:59 pm -
A couple of weeks ago my aunt and uncle came to Turin (Piedmont). It was their first time here and they had no idea what to expect. They were pleasantly surprised by the baroque architecture of many of the palazzi and the overall elegance of the city. Combining culture, coffee and ice cream: that was our goal. You’re invited to retrace our footsteps on this short tour. Enjoy with us the delights of Italy’s first capital.
To view the images at full size please click on the thumbnails. Take advantage also of the many links included throughout the article – they give more detail about the topic or show a 360 degree panorama.
Posted in Culture, Exhibitions, Experience, Food & Drink, Travel | 9 Comments »
Caffè Mike… Again!
Written by admin on 28 June, 2009 – 10:24 pm -
Last week I found an espresso cup with my name on it. This week, whilst on a day trip to Susa I discover that Caffè Mike is actually a brand of coffee from Alessandria, Piedmont. Obviously I had to try it – fortunately it passed my quality test.
Has anybody else heard of it? Now I am on a mission to a acquire a cappuccino cup to complement the espresso one I already have. I’m quite chuffed to have a coffee named after me!
Posted in Food & Drink | 4 Comments »
Mike’s Espresso Cup
Written by admin on 24 June, 2009 – 2:39 pm -
At the flea market in Nizza Monfferato last Sunday, I managed to find a little espresso coffee cup with my name on it. It only cost €1.50.
I am currently working on the Turin article I promised. It is taking longer than expected and I am also quite busy with work. It will be online as soon as possible though.
Posted in Food & Drink | 3 Comments »
When the “Mercatino” is Cancelled
Written by admin on 9 June, 2009 – 10:31 am -
This Sunday a nice trip with my in-laws to an antique mercatino in Moncalieri, Piedmont, was almost ruined. Despite being advertised in Torino Sette, the local “What’s On” paper, this wonderful flea market was cancelled due to the European Elections. What does one do in a crisis like this? Well, I managed to console myself with a Creme Caffè.
This Caramello and Nocciole Cold Cream was made with hazelnuts, caramel cream, cold coffee cream, ameretto drops and cocoa with sugar. Lovely and refreshing.
Note: a cappuccino could also have done the job. I seem to be able to drink one in any temperature!
Posted in Food & Drink | 4 Comments »
Rules for the Perfect Coffee – Part 2
Written by admin on 15 May, 2009 – 9:22 am -
Here is part two of the tips for a perfect coffee as promoted by the Istituto Nazionale Espresso Italiano. A big thank you to Carlo Odello for allowing me to publish it.
As with part 1 a translation will follow soon for those who don’t speak or are learning Italian. However, it might be good practice to try and understand it yourself first.
Please let me know how you feel about these ‘rules’ and if you have any other tips add them in the comments below.
Posted in Food & Drink | 1 Comment »
Rules for the Perfect Coffee: Translation – Part 1
Written by admin on 11 May, 2009 – 1:27 pm -
The Perfect Coffee
What to look out for:
Coffee grinder: the bin must always be clean
Filter holder: must be completely empty and clean
Coffee pressing: must be done with strength
Cups on top of the machine: no more than two rows
The Perfect Cappuccino
What to look out for:
Steamer: must be clean
Milk: must never reach boiling point and never be resteamed
Posted in Food & Drink | 3 Comments »
