Lidia's Italy in America A Cookbook

In this companion book to her upcoming public television series, Lidia takes us on a road trip into the heart of Italian American cooking today. As she explores the multifaceted approach to this utterly delectable and distinctive cuisine, we come to see that every kitchen and every Italian community is different. Clues are buried in each dish: the Sicilian-style semolina bread and briny olives in New Orleans muffaletta sandwiches, the Neapolitan crust of New York pizza, and the smoky provola that tops braised chicken breasts in Philadelphia. She talks with creative cooks all over the country-farmers, housewives, butchers, fishermen, and food entrepreneurs-about the ingredients they use, their kitchen secrets, and of course, their favorite recipes: from Rhode Island Clams Casino and Baltimore Crab Cakes to Bronx Eggplant Parmesan and Boston Cream Cakes. And she gives recognition where it is long overdue to the many industrious Italians across the country who have honored the traditions of their homeland in a delicious new style. A loving exploration of a fascinating cuisine-as only Lidia could give us.

Lidia Matticchio Bastianich is the author of seven previous books, five of which have been accompanied by nationally syndicated public television series. She is the owner of the New York City restaurant Felidia, among others, and she gives lectures on Italian cuisine throughout the country. She lives on Long Island, New York.

Tanya Bastianich Manuali received her Ph.D. in Renaissance art history from Oxford University. In 1996 she started Experienze Italiane, a travel company that arranges food, wine, and art tours to Italy. She also co-authors books with her mother, Lidia; manages Lidia's product line; and serves as the cultural and art consultant for the art series. She lives on Long Island.