Why Italians Love to Talk About Food

Italians love to talk about food. The aroma of a simmering ragu, the bouquet of a local wine, the memory of a past meal: Italians discuss these details as naturally as we talk about politics or sport, and at least as animatedly. In Why Italians Love to Talk about Food, Elena Kostioukovich explores the phenomenon that first struck her as a newcomer to Italy: the 'culinary code' or way of talking about food. In doing so, she captures the fierce local pride that gives Italian cuisine its remarkable diversity. To come to know Italian food is to discover the differences of taste, language and attitude that separate a Sicilian from a Puglian or a Venetian from a Sardinian. Sample Emilio Romagna's pumpkin-filled Tortelli, Tuscany's Bistecca alla Fiorentina and Lombardy's mouth-watering Torta Paradiso: each is part of a unique culinary tradition. This learned, charming and entertaining narrative is a journey through one of the world's richest and most adored food cultures. Arranged by region with vivid historical anecdotes, maps, menus and glossaries, Why Italians Love to Talk About Food is a sumptuous exploration of Italian cuisine and culture, and Italy's delicious contributions to the world.