Video Recipe of the Week by Lorena Merighi - How to Prepare Italian Apple Fritters

It's apple Season and our dear friend Lorena from Bella Italia Store, will show us how to make Italian Apple Fritters a true Autumn delicacy. A base Italian batter recipe enhanced with the zest of  a lemon along with the apples is a true match and a wonderful delight.




Base Ingredients

                                                              Refer to video for directions

Apples
Italian 00 flour
Sugar
Lemon (zest and juice)
egg
milk 
baking powder

Hill Towns of Southern Sicily

Ragusa

There are 3 fascinating hill towns of Southern Sicily which are characterized by a certain Sicilian Baroque style charm: Ibia, Modica and Enna.

Ibla ( Ragusa) and the San Giorgio Cathedral

Gelati Divini Ice Cream from Wines

Ibla located in the oldest part of Ragusa, and the best way to reach it is by foot. Once there, you will be thrilled by the charming streets, which lead onto cozy squares which are overpowered by buildings decorated in Baroque style. The spectacular Baroque style Duomo di San Giorgio  is the main attraction of Ibla which is located behind a large piazza which hosts many cafes, shoppes and gelateria's. One particular gelateria, Gelati Divini , famous by selling ice cream made from wines.

Modica

Conti Castle

Modica is an elegant town visited by very few tourists. By climbing the hill ,which many of the streets are characterized stairways, you will have the opportunity to look at the beautiful valley below. Just like Ibla, this charming hill town is also characterized by the Baroque style buildings and churches and for a fact Modica is known for maintaining the original Sicilian Baroque style, which is highlighted in the San Giorgio and San Pietro Cathedral. Other highlights of Modica include: Castello di Conti (Conti Castle) Church of St. Mary Bethlehem, The Garibaldi  Theatre, and Mercedari Palace which is home to a museum and a library.

Federico Tower (Enna)

Enna

Enna is too big to be called a town, due to it's location, situated in the center of the Island, and it's often overlooked by travelers. Enna is about 3100 feet above sea level and offers one of the most impressive views of Sicily therefore has earned the name Belvedere which means " Beautiful View". The Castello di Lombardia (Lombardy Castle), The Duomo (Cathedral), Palazzo Varisano  and Torre di Federico (Federico Tower) are among the many monuments to visit in Enna. Palazzo Varisano is home to  the archaeological museum which hosts many materials from the copper age.


Photos credit: Google

Roman Style Pumpkin Soup

The Roman style pumpkin soup is all about leeks and pumpkin which are pureed together to create a creamy velvety soup  and where chopped mint brings out the flavor. If you prefer a thicker version of this soup by all means add potatoes. 
The recipe calls for boiling the pumpkin, if you prefer a richer taste then you have the option to roast the pumpkin till tender then puree with the leeks.

Ingredients for 4:

• 2 cups of diced (cubes) pumpkins
• 1/2 cup of potato cubes ( optional for thickness)
• 1/2 cup of chopped leek
• 1 large clove of ginger (chopped)
• 1 cup of milk
• 1/2 tsp of dried thyme
• 1 tbsp. of olive oil 
• salt and pepper to taste
• 2 leaves of chopped mint or parsley (for garnish)

Place olive oil in a pan and saute the leek and garlic for  about 1 minute.
Add the pumpkin and  if you prefer the potato  and saute for an additional 3 minutes.
Add the milk and 1 cup of hot water,stir and simmer on a slow flame till the pumpkin and  potatoes are  fully cooked.
Allow the mixture to cool completely and then puree in a blender.
Combine the pureed mixture and thyme together with 2 cups of hot water in a pot and 
then  season with salt and pepper and bring to a boil.
Serve hot, garnished with the mint or parsley or even roasted pumpkin seeds.

Serve with a slice of bruschetta brushed with olive oil and garlic.Pumpkin soup pairs well with the following wines: Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay

Photo courtesy: Google

San Leo: The Art Capital Mentioned by Dante Alighieri in the Divine Comedy

San Leo

San Leo a little town located on an enormous rocky outcropping, just behind the Republic di San Marino and the Rimini Riviera, in the Marecchia Valley which are all located in the Emilia Romagna region of Italy, about 80 km from it's Capital, Bologna.

Dante Alighieri in the Divine Comedy mentions San Leo as a magnificent art capital. It is an historic region of Montefeltro famed for various historical and geopolitical events, and has also been the location for documentaries and films and finally it is a popular tourist destination and a jewel of the province of Rimini.

A must see is it's extraordinary geological configuration, known as the fort located in a rocky mass with sheer side, The fort since prehistoric times, has been of a highly military and religious importance.  

Scorcio della Fortezza

The defensive fort (Scorcio della Fortezza) is situated on the highest point of the spur which can be reached only through a single road carved out of the mountain.Once reached the fort, which you can visit and learn more about the charming town's and fort history you will also enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, along with the entire Marecchia Valley all the way to the Sea.

Inside the Elegant The Sacred Art Museum

Inside Santa Maria Assunta Church in San Leo

This town is home to many Renaissance buildings like the Medici Palace, a number of Romanesque buildings like a parish church, cathedral and tower. When visiting the Medici Palace, you will have the opportunity to visit the elegant Museum of Sacred Art , the residence of the Severini - Nardini Counts and the now town hall known as Palazzo della Rovere.

The traditional cuisine of the Emilia Romagna region is simple and main dishes are  rustic soups which are made with vegetables, meatballs, sausages and sliced bread. San Leo's  popular digestive liquor is the "Balm of Cagliostro" (Antico Balsamo Cagliostro) named after the imprisoned Count of Cagliostro whom also invented the liquor.

San Leo is named among the "Most Beautiful Towns of Italy" . A charming and historic town to visit in every season.

Photo credit: Google

Wearing Borsalino - The Iconic Made in Italy

It all began in 1857, in Alessandria Italy; when Giuseppe Borsalino, set up the first artisan workshop for the production of felt hats.
Today Borsalino collections are larger, and in addition to the classic felt hat, include the famous straw hats "Panama-Montecristi". Borsalino the made in Italy hats continue to be made of the finest materials and leathers, and have added styles targeted to the young hat-wearer.

Panama Montecristi Hat

Panama Montecrisit Hat

Photo's credit: Google

Foods and Wines of Sondrio

Sondrio, a city of the Lombardy region of Italy has a fascinating mix of styles from the past and famous for it's wines known as Sassella, Grumello, Inferno, Maroggia Valgella and to top them all the Sforzato.

The Sforzato wine is considered one of Italy's top wines and pairs well the it's regional cheeses: il Bitto and the Valtellina Casera and with meats of deer, pheasant, wild hare and duck. It is also considered a meditation wine therefore can be enjoyed alone. 

The Bitto and Valtellina Casera are the king and Queen cheeses of the Valetellina territory while the cut meats of Salami, Bondiola and liver mortadella are the local specialties . The Bitto cheese is a perfect table cheese and also an ideal filler for ravioli's and crepes and makes the perfect thickener for risotto. The Valtellina Casera is also a perfect table cheese but it can also become a tasty ingredient for modern and creative recipes.

Sondrio is home to the prize winning mushroom known as porcini. Porcini are gathered in the dense woods of the Valetellina territory. A very popular Sondrio dish is the "filetto di Manzo ai funghi porcini" (roast with porcini).

And finally for it's traditional dessert, a cake called Bisciola. The Bisciola is also know as
"pan de fich", a traditional bread type cake made with figs,nuts, raisins and dried fruits. This bread is very popular during Christmas but available all year round in Sondrio and throughout the Lombardy region. Sacatomato.com features how to make this delicacy.



Photo's courtesy: Google

Happening in New York - Spend Halloween in Southampton

Halloween in Southampton 

  

Flee to Southampton for a fun family affair during Halloween weekend! The east end of Long Island has so much to offer. Farmstands, Corn Mazes, Parades and a Scavenger Hunt at Southampton Inn. 

Book Friday, October 31st for $259* and add Saturday, November 1st for a spooky $100.* Friday rates include tickets to Southampton Arts Center's Spooktacular Haunted House on Jobs Lane - a five minute walk from Southampton Inn. Hours are 5 - 8 p.m. with lights on for the first hour. Tickets valid for Friday's Haunted House only.

The fun continues on Saturday! Participate in our Pumpkin Scavenger Hunt around the Inn, with prizes redeemable in our Café OSO where breakfast is served 7:30 - 10:30 a.m. Scavenger Hunt is free for all and open to the public.

Southampton Inn is also offering bicycle rentals for $5 per hour on Saturday, November 1st. Bike to the beach or stroll through town after breakfast.

*Subject to availability. Double occupancy. Does not include tax.

Southhamptoninn.com

Happening in New York - Happy National Spa Week

Happy Spa Week!

This is the week you have been waiting for. Think: therapeutic massages, oxygen facials and acupuncture... You can experience all of these luxurious spa and wellness treatments for just $50 each. 

While there is no shortage of participating spas in cities all across the country, we thought it would be helpful to share a few that we think you should check out this week.

• Elements Massage – After a long summer spent outdoors, your muscles could definitely use some R&R. Whether you’re in the market for some sports therapy or a prenatal massage, Elements has you covered with their experienced staff at tons of tranquil locations. Visit Elements Massage in Arizona, New Jersey, Tennessee, California, Nevada, Florida, Texas, Washington, Virginia and Colorado. 

• Red Door Spa – Anyone who knows luxury knows the iconic Red Door Spa. And although this exclusive spa hosts tons of celebs, during Spa Week you can get the royal treatment for just $50! Red Door uses their exclusive Red Door Professionals product line for treatments, so if you love your results, you can continue to pamper yourself at home. Visit Red Door Spa in Maryland, New York, Washington DC, Illinois, Virginia, Florida, Virginia, Arizona, Texas, New Jersey and Connecticut.

• Clarins – Another industry leader, Clarins is famed for their skincare philosophy.  Whether you have oily skin, want to erase fine lines or need a dose of moisture, this legendary spa has you covered. Plus they offer lip-contouring add-ons for each $50 service! Visit Clarins in California, Florida, New York, Massachusetts, Florida, Illinois and Virginia.

Spa Week is happening in cities all across the country, so there’s no excuse not to treat yourself to a last minute spa "steal"!

Happening in New York: Celebrity Jewelry Designer Margo Manhattan Collaborates With Fashion Designer Nicole Miller For The Fierce and Fabulous "Warrior" Collection

Celebrity jewelry designer Margo Manhattan is excited to announce her ‘Warrior’ collection, designed in collaboration with fashion designer Nicole Miller, is now available for purchase in-stores and online.

The fierce and fabulous range of jewelry debuted at Miller’s showing of her Runway Fall 2014 collection during New York Fashion Week. It was inspired by Mad Max and showcased fierce femmes’ fatales in tough-girl attire.

The stunning jewelry is now available at Nicole Miller stores, online at www.nicolemiller.com, and at the Margo Manhattan boutiques.

Made of natural stone from black turquoise, agate, lava beads, crystal and black chain, the jewelry evokes a tribal yet luxurious feeling through a mixture of different textures and textile patterns.  It brings a Mad Max Warrior look to the city.

Source: Lawlor Media Group
New York

Biscotti al Limoncello

The biscotti al limoncello are an enjoyable and delicious sweet treat ideal for any occasion. Experience the essence of which is a limoncello liqueur that we all know well.

Ingredients:

• 1 egg + 1 egg yolk 
• 9oz of cake flour
• 5 oz. sugar 
• 1 tablespoon of butter 
• grated zest of 1 lemon 
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder 
• 1-2 glasses of limoncello 
• 1 cup powdered sugar 

Directions:

Sift the flour into a bowl, in the center of the flour,add  sugar, baking powder, lemon zest, egg plus another one whole egg yolk, butter into small pieces and finally the limoncello. Mix everything with your hands trying to drain towards the center of all the ingredients so that all the flour is absorbed. 

Knead until smooth to make the cookie dough, then wrap in a sheet of plastic wrap and let stand in refrigerator for about 1 hour. 

After this time, remove the dough from the refrigerator and leave at room temperature for about 10 minutes so it softens slightly. 

At this point, divide the dough  into pieces the size of a walnut. Shape with your hands to get the balls regularly. 

Put a glass of powdered sugar on a plate and roll the shaped sized cookie dough ball into the powdered sugar.

Line a cookie sheet with a sheet of baking paper and then place the limoncello biscotti dough balls on the cookie sheet and then slightly pressure each one with the palm of your hand to crush them slightly. 

Baking time for limoncello cookies

Pre-heat the oven to 350 ° C and then bake cookies for about 15 minutes until they become golden brown. 

After baking, you have to remove the pan from the oven and let the limoncello biscotti cool  before serving.

Image source: Google

The Largest Italian Island with a Lake: Monte Isola

Monte Isola also named Montisola is a charming town situated in the province of Brescia in the Lombardy region of Italy. It's known to be the largest Italian Island with a lake. Due to it's size and road construction, there are driving restrictions, access to drive is available only to public services and priests.

With it's charm Monte Isola also makes for a wonderful retreat and the ideal spot for activities mainly fishing. Connections to the Island is through ferry service; though driving is restricted there is a wonderful bike path which tourists can take advantage of. Monte Isola is also known as a walking town.. The panoramic view is defined as beautiful and characteristic, especially the climb from the village of Cure to the Madonna delle Ceriola Ceriola, which is situated among trees.

Ferries and boats depart from the town of Desenzano and cross the Lake Iseo to reach the Island. One of the main attractions is the beautiful view while crossing the lake and tranquility and relaxation come into feelings. One of it's unusual attraction is an odd rock formation, high above the lakeside town of Marone; a cluster of pyramids with a bizarre formation where erosion has left tall pinnacles surmounted by boulders.  On the western lake shore are sheets of limestone that seem to plunge into the lake known as bongs of Casteo and Zorzino, definitely a picture moment.

Santuario della Madonna Delle Ceriola

Walking your way to the Madonna della Ceriola is considered the main attraction of the Island, if you prefer not to climb your way , transportation is available by taking the bus to the small village of Cure, which is also known as the highest village of the Island.

The Santuario della Madonna ( sanctuary) dates back to the sixteenth century and you will encounter beautiful altars and statues. From the church you will experience one of the most beautiful views of the lake Iseo.


Images courtesy Google

Salute Columbus!! - Celebrating Italian Heritage the Tuscan Style Way with Pappardelle al Ragu and A Bottle of Brunello

Columbus Day weekend is here and it's time to celebrate the Italian - American heritage in a classy and elegant way and what better way than with simple ingredients and fabulous Italian wine. Though Christopher Columbus was from Genoa and since we are celebrating Italy we preferred to choose two top Tuscan signature products: Tuscany's wine "Brunello" and Tuscany's signature Pasta "Pappardelle",

Brunello is Tuscany's best known red wine. Originating from the hilltop town of Montalcino, located in Southern Tuscany. This wine is made from the famous San Giovese grapes the same grapes used in Chianti. Let's put it this way the Brunello is a Noble wine, which improves with age. Brunello translates into black cherry and blackberry notes with a dark burgandy color. When buying Brunello it's important the bottle is labeled Brunello di Montalcino ( San Giovese) and includes the D.O.C label; no label means not original. 


Though it is a Noble wine it pairs divinely with grilled steak, marinated grilled portobello mushrooms over polenta and is an ideal stew wine for rabbit ragu over pappardelle.
Rabbit is not a popular choice for many but giving the ragu a twist by substituting the rabbit with beef ragu is just as perfect.

Pappardelle Pasta

Pappardelle are a wider version of fettuccine pasta, while fettuccine are made with or without eggs , pappardelle are categorized as an egg pasta. Hearty sauces make the ideal topping for pappardelle.

 Jamie Oliver's Slow cooked Meat Ragu Photo Credit Jamie Oliver

A simple beef ragu (sauce with hearty meat) to top the pappardelle and a bottle of brunello make the perfect pair.  Jamie Oliver Slow Cooked Meat Ragu with Pappardelle  is a definite winner when it comes to celebrating the Italian heritage with style.

What You Might Want To Pack or Not If You Are Traveling to Italy in Fall or Spring

The weather in Italy during Fall and Springtime can be very significant day by day and from city to city. This doesn't mean you need to pack multiple suitcases rather pack things which can be used for multi purposes such as: light rain jacket, maybe a scarf or two, a shawl, water resistant shoes, a small umbrella to have handy, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, layers (especially if you are going to travel to the mountains) and finally and most importantly pack church appropriate clothing. If you want to enter Italy's churches and cathedrals; you will not be allowed to enter if you are wearing dresses or tops with cleavage, tank tops or even shorts, torn jeans or pants with holes, mini skirts.

Lets focus on what not to pack or maybe consider packing if you plan to visit Italy in Fall or Spring. No one wants to over pack therefore there are two things that are unnecessary to pack: Swimsuits and gloves and hats.
Fall and Spring are considered shoulder Seasons, therefore the temperatures especially in Springtime tend get warmer and most likely the beaches will open, but in the other hand this might not happen. But in the event it does, you wouldn't want to miss out on the opportunity to enjoy a day at the beach. In this case tossing your swimsuit into your suitcase isn't such a bad idea as it wouldn't take up much space. But again it all depends on when you plan on travelling to Italy, if it's early Spring then you shouldn't bother with the swimsuit but if your plans for travelling to Italy are in late Spring then by all means pack your swimsuit. Another aspect that you might want to consider is exactly where are you going to be traveling in Italy? Some regions tend to be warmer than others therefore it's always wise to stay updated with local weather.



Image credit:  Google