April 23, 2021
At times it is so wonderful when life offers something a bit indulgent just to brighten the day. Although prepared on rare occasions, brioche cinnamon rolls are definitely a fluffy and delectable treat that makes life just a little extra sweet. Soft layers of brioche dough rolled with butter and cinnamon sugar are baked in a wood-fired oven just like our grandmothers used to do. Let's get started!
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April 15, 2021
Fougasse is the stunning staple flat bread from the French Provence. What an experience to bite into a crunchy, crisp crust only to discover a soft, chewy crumb. Could it possibly be the cousin of the iconic Italian focaccia? Although usually prepared with the addition of dried herbs, olives, sometimes cheese and lardon (bacon), today we will make a very simple, basic version on which to build on later. Let's get started!
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April 08, 2021
There are countless ways to prepare dough for pizza. Different hydration levels, varied combinations of flours, leavening methods and resting times. One very ancient Italian way to leaven dough is to use Pasta di Riporto, which is a portion of old dough from a previous bake. Not only will this result into a dough that needs less yeast to ferment, but amongst other benefits it will also develop a final product with a much greater depth of flavor. Let's get started!
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April 01, 2021
What better way to make a breakfast, brunch or even an appetizer when serving these flaky, savory cream cheese and ham pastries. These morsels of goodness come together in no time at all and are always a welcome surprise when served straight from the oven. Let's get started!
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March 19, 2021
Crostini are most certainly the Tuscan appetizer par excellence, always present not only on a menu when dining out, but also when guests are invited for a meal. Served as a perfect antipasto while waiting for the meal to begin, these delicious morsels of goodness have limitless possibilities. Born from the necessity to use even the last bit of bread so nothing was waisted, crostini are today made with toppings of all kinds. Normally these crostini are made with a mixture of fresh sausage and soft Stracchino cheese, but since Crescenza is what we had on hand, we will merry the meat with this soft cheese.
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March 05, 2021
Struggling with what to cook for the next meal? Pasta is always a glorious go-to. Think of it as a white canvas on which to create anything your imagination allows. Today the king of the dish will be Cavolo Nero, a loose leafed cabbage, or kale typical to Tuscany. Ready to prepare a simple, quick yet very delicious pasta dish with this wonderful power green? Let's get started!
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March 04, 2021
Want a quick and delicious side dish? Wedges of fennel topped with thinly sliced oranges becomes a dish filled with a beautiful symphony of flavors when roasted to perfection in the wood-fired oven. Although absolutely delicious when eaten raw, fennel can be brought to a whole new level when roasted. Rediscover this wonderful white bulb that has an undertone of a slight hint of liquorish and give it a fair shot in your kitchen. Let's get started!
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March 01, 2021
A crunchy baguette is definitely one of the most delicious, fun and versatile breads to make, but also one of the most challenging. What could be so difficult when combining simple ingredients such as flour, water, salt and yeast? Although a good baguette requires a two day process and close attention to detailed steps, it is well worth making. Still learning so much. Let's get started!
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