Bitter Almonds Recollections And Recipes From A Sicilian Girlhood
If you're looking for a book that will transport you to a world of warm, sun-drenched days, traditional family values, and delicious food, then look no further than "Bitter Almonds Recollections And Recipes From A Sicilian Girlhood" by Mary Taylor Simeti. This delightful memoir tells the story of Simeti's childhood in 1940s and 50s Sicily, where she grew up surrounded by family, friends, and a wealth of amazing flavors.
A Taste Of Sicily
Simeti's memoir is not just a collection of stories - it's also a cookbook! Throughout the book, she shares the recipes that were a part of her everyday life growing up in Sicily. From pasta dishes to meat and fish recipes, and of course, plenty of desserts, this book is full of mouth-watering ideas to try at home.
One of the most interesting things about Simeti's recipes is the use of bitter almonds. These are a popular ingredient in Sicilian cooking, and are used in everything from cakes and cookies to savory dishes like chicken with almond sauce.
The Bitter Truth About Bitter Almonds
If you're not familiar with bitter almonds, you might be wondering what all the fuss is about. After all, aren't almonds supposed to be sweet? Well, yes and no. Bitter almonds are a variety of almond that contains a chemical called amygdalin, which breaks down into cyanide when it's ingested. This might sound scary, but in small amounts, bitter almonds are perfectly safe to eat.
In fact, in Sicily, bitter almonds are a traditional ingredient in many recipes. They have a unique, slightly bitter flavor that adds depth and complexity to dishes. If you're interested in trying out some Sicilian recipes for yourself, you can find bitter almonds online or at specialty food stores.
Recipes To Try
So, what kind of recipes can you expect to find in "Bitter Almonds Recollections And Recipes From A Sicilian Girlhood"? Here are just a few examples:
Pasta alla Norma
This classic Sicilian dish features penne pasta tossed with a rich tomato sauce, eggplant, and a sprinkle of salty ricotta salata cheese. It's a simple and satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Cassata Siciliana
This is a traditional Sicilian dessert that's made with sponge cake, sweetened ricotta cheese, candied fruit, and a drizzle of liqueur. It's a bit time-consuming to make, but the end result is a stunning, multi-layered cake that's sure to impress your guests.
Pollo con Salsa di Mandorle
This savory dish features chicken breasts that are cooked in a creamy almond sauce. It's a rich and flavorful dish that's perfect for a special occasion.
Final Thoughts
"Bitter Almonds Recollections And Recipes From A Sicilian Girlhood" is a delightful book that will transport you to a world of warmth, family, and amazing food. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, you're sure to find plenty of inspiration in this memoir/cookbook. So why not give it a try?