Ep 24. The Galloping Figs

Lidia's Italy season 1 episode 24, titled The Galloping Figs, takes viewers on a culinary journey through one of Italy's most beloved and historic regions, Sardinia. Known for its rugged landscapes, ancient traditions, and unique cuisine, Sardinia is a place where food and culture are deeply intertwined.

Throughout the episode, host Lidia Bastianich explores the island's diverse offerings, from the fresh seafood that abounds in its coastal towns to the hearty meat dishes that are a staple of its interior villages. She visits small, family-run farms where she discovers how traditional Sardinian cheeses, cured meats, and olive oils are made, and learns how the techniques used to produce these foods have been passed down through generations.

One of the highlights of the episode is Lidia's visit to a fig farm, where she observes the fascinating process of drying and preserving figs using a technique that dates back centuries. Known as "galloping figs," the process involves placing the figs on straw mats and allowing them to dry in the sun, turning them over every day to ensure that they dry evenly.

Lidia also prepares a variety of dishes featuring the island's abundant figs, including a sweet and tangy fig dressing for a salad of bitter greens, a flavorful fig and prosciutto pizza, and a rich fig and almond tart.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning views of Sardinia's rugged interior and picturesque coastline, as well as insights into the island's unique culture and traditions. Whether you're a food lover, a history buff, or simply an armchair traveler, The Galloping Figs is sure to delight and inspire.