Ep 7. Porcini Wrap

Lidia's Italy Season 2 Episode 7: Porcini Wrap

In this episode of Lidia's Italy, Lidia Bastianich takes viewers on a culinary journey to Italy's forested mountain regions to learn about the beloved mushroom, porcini. She visits local farmers in Tuscany and Umbria to learn about their harvesting techniques and discover some unique and delicious recipes using porcini.

Lidia starts by making a flavorful porcini paste, which she uses as the base for a savory porcini and spinach wrap. She teaches viewers how to properly clean and prepare the mushrooms for cooking and highlights their distinct earthy flavor. Lidia then prepares the wrap filling by sautéing the porcini and spinach with garlic, olive oil and white wine.

Next, Lidia heads to the town of Gubbio in Umbria to visit a local butcher who specializes in wild boar, a popular meat in the region. She picks up some fresh wild boar sausages to use in her next recipe, a hearty porcini and wild boar ragu served over creamy polenta. Lidia shows viewers how to make a rich and flavorful sauce using only a few simple ingredients and some kitchen pantry essentials.

For her final dish, Lidia takes inspiration from a classic Tuscan dessert, schiacciata alla fiorentina, and puts a savory spin on it with the addition of porcini mushrooms. She creates a rustic porcini and pecorino cheese tart using a homemade dough and tops it with thinly sliced mushrooms, cheese and fresh herbs.

Throughout the episode, Lidia shares her knowledge and passion for Italian cooking and emphasizes the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients. She also showcases the beauty and diversity of Italy's regions and the unique culinary traditions that have developed over centuries.

Overall, Lidia's Italy Season 2 Episode 7 is a delicious and educational culinary journey that will inspire viewers to explore the rich flavors and ingredients of Italian cuisine.