A Jubilee Year Suggested Itinerary: 5 Paleo-Christian Churches, among Rome's Oldest Churches
Release Date: 01/27/2025
How Cookbooks Travel Across Cultures, Part 2
Flavor of Italy podcast
In Part Two of my conversation with cookbook author and recipe developer Maria Zizka, we dig even deeper and explore her work in Americanizing recipes, and her experience teaching at the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Northern Italy. Maria explains how she guides students through the many ways to write a recipe—always encouraging them to embrace their personal voice in the process. “Only you can write your version of a recipe,” she says, and that authenticity is what makes recipes truly shine. We also touch on Preserving Tradition Through Adaptation, Why Voice and Specificity...
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How Cookbooks Travel Across Cultures, Part 1
Flavor of Italy podcast
How Cookbooks Travel Across Cultures, Part 1 A Conversation with Cookbook Author and Recipe Adaptor Maria Zizka When it comes to writing and publishing cookbooks, adapting recipes for different countries is far more complex than simply converting grams to ounces. In this week’s Flavor of Italy Podcast, I chatted with acclaimed cookbook author Maria Zizka, who specializes in the art and science of recipe adaptations—specifically the “Americanization” of international cookbooks. Maria is based in the Berkeley Hills of California, while I’m in Rome, Italy. So we both understand...
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Valtènesi Wines, Lake Garda
Flavor of Italy podcast
Lake Garda, Italy’s largest and most picturesque lake, is not just a scenic marvel but also a hub of exceptional wines. Thanks to its unique microclimate and diverse soil composition, this region produces some of Italy’s most distinctive and celebrated wines. From refreshing whites to complex reds, Lake Garda’s wines offer something for every palate. One of the best ways to visit the enormous Lake Garda and its wineries is to ferry hop from one lakeside town to another. Nestled on the western shores of Lake Garda, the Valtènesi wine region is an enchanting destination for wine lovers...
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Italian Vermouth
Flavor of Italy podcast
If you’re looking for a fascinating drink that combines history, craftsmanship, and a bouquet of flavors, Italian Vermouth is a must-discover gem. And if you want to understand vermouth’s origins and why it’s so closely tied to Italy—and specifically the city of Torino—you need to hear the story that global sommelier and vermouth expert Martina Doglio Cotto shared with me on today' podcast episode. So what exactly is Italian Vermouth? Martina describes vermouth as a “liquid perfume,” an aromatic, drinkable elixir infused with herbs, spices, and botanicals. It’s technically a...
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Italy in a Wine Glass
Flavor of Italy podcast
Italy and wine are inseparable. To understand Italy, you need to understand its wine — and to truly appreciate Italian wine, you have to dig deep into its rich history, ancient traditions, and deep cultural roots. This connection comes to life beautifully in Marc Millon’s latest book, Italy in a Wine Glass: The Taste of History. I had the pleasure of speaking with Marc on my Flavor of Italy Podcast, and the conversation was a treasure trove of insights about Italian wine and its fascinating backstory. Listen now!
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Magical Sulmona in the Abruzzo Region
Flavor of Italy podcast
Magical Sulmona: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Abruzzo Sulmona is a town that is often overlooked by travelers but is an absolute gem—Sulmona, in the heart of Abruzzo. Sulmona’s rich history, stunning architecture, culinary delights, and unique traditions—are the things that make this town a must-visit destination. And it's just an hour and a half drive from Rome. Listen in for all the details on what to see and do, where to eat, the culinary treasures of the town, how to get here and where to stay. This is what you listeners have been asking for… an off the beaten path hidden gem rich...
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Exploring the World of Italian Cheese with Tano, the Cheese Sommelier
Flavor of Italy podcast
Italy is world-renowned for its incredible culinary heritage, from pasta and wine to olive oil and, of course, its Italian cheese. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the fascinating world of Italian cheese with Gaetano Mina di Sospiro, also known as Tano—a certified Italian cheese sommelier. If you’ve ever wondered what it means to be a cheese sommelier, how Italy’s cheese culture compares to other countries, or which cheeses you absolutely must try, this is the perfect listen for you. Head to the show notes for links, photos, and recipes!
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Cremona: a Hidden Gem Just Outside of Milan, Italy
Flavor of Italy podcast
Tucked away in the heart of northern Italy, just outside Milan, lies Cremona—a charming and historic city that remains one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. While it may not be on every traveler’s itinerary, Cremona offers a rich cultural experience, from its world-renowned violin-making tradition to its delectable local cuisine. If you’re looking for an authentic slice of Italy away from the bustling tourist crowds, Cremona is a must-visit destination.
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Help Shape Flavor of Italy in 2025 + Italian Gourmet Gift Box Drawing!
Flavor of Italy podcast
Help Shape the Future of Flavor of Italy + Win an Italian Gourmet Gift Box! It’s a new year, and I need your help shaping the future of Flavor of Italy! I’ve created a quick survey to gather your thoughts on what you love about the podcast, newsletter, and website—and what you'd like to see more of. Your feedback is incredibly valuable, and to show my appreciation, I’m giving away a gourmet Italian gift box in a special drawing! One lucky survey respondent will win this delicious prize, so don’t miss your chance. Tune in to this episode to learn more about how you can make your voice...
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A Jubilee Year Suggested Itinerary: 5 Paleo-Christian Churches, among Rome's Oldest Churches
Flavor of Italy podcast
5 Paleo-Christian Churches: A Suggested Itinerary for the Jubilee Year, with a focus on Rome's oldest churches....and nearby tasty eateries! Rome is a city of unparalleled history, where every cobblestone whispers tales of the past. As the Eternal City gears up for the 2025 Jubilee Year, it’s already brimming with visitors. But amidst the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican, there lies another Rome—a quieter, more spiritual side that echoes the city’s earliest Christian heritage. In a recent podcast interview, I had the pleasure of chatting with David Laskin, a renowned...
info_outline5 Paleo-Christian Churches: A Suggested Itinerary for the Jubilee Year, with a focus on Rome's oldest churches....and nearby tasty eateries!
Rome is a city of unparalleled history, where every cobblestone whispers tales of the past. As the Eternal City gears up for the 2025 Jubilee Year, it’s already brimming with visitors. But amidst the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican, there lies another Rome—a quieter, more spiritual side that echoes the city’s earliest Christian heritage. In a recent podcast interview, I had the pleasure of chatting with David Laskin, a renowned author and NYT travel journalist, about his suggested itinerary to explore five of Rome’s oldest churches. These hidden gems offer a peaceful respite from the bustling crowds while immersing visitors in the city’s rich Paleo-Christian history.