Ep 8. What a Boar

Lidia's Italy is a television series that explores the different regions of Italy through the eyes of culinary icon Lidia Bastianich. In season 2 episode 8, titled "What a Boar", Lidia travels to the region of Tuscany to discover the delicious cuisine and ingredients it has to offer.

The episode begins with Lidia exploring the beautiful countryside of Tuscany and visiting a local butcher to learn about the different cuts of pork used in Tuscan cuisine. She then heads to a nearby farm to meet a group of wild boar hunters and learn about the traditional methods of hunting and preparing these animals for the table.

After gathering wild boar from the hunt and visiting a local market to pick up fresh herbs and vegetables, Lidia heads back to the kitchen to prepare a delicious Tuscan-style wild boar ragu. She begins by browning the meat in a large pot with onions, carrots, and celery, before adding tomatoes, wine, and a variety of herbs and spices to create a rich and flavorful sauce. As the ragu simmers on the stove, Lidia prepares a batch of fresh pappardelle pasta to serve alongside the dish.

While the ragu is cooking, Lidia takes a break from the kitchen to explore the beautiful town of San Gimignano and visit a local cheese shop. There, she samples a variety of Tuscan cheeses, including pecorino di fossa, a sheep's milk cheese that is aged in special underground caves.

Back in the kitchen, Lidia finishes up the ragu and serves it over the freshly cooked pappardelle. She tops the dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated pecorino cheese, and takes a moment to savor the delicious flavors of the Tuscan countryside.

Throughout the episode, Lidia shares her love and knowledge of Italian cuisine, highlighting the importance of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Her passion for Italian food and culture is infectious, and viewers are sure to be inspired to try new recipes and explore the rich culinary heritage of Tuscany and beyond.

Overall, "What a Boar" is a delightful and informative episode of Lidia's Italy, showcasing the best of Tuscan cuisine and offering viewers a glimpse into the rich culture and history of this beautiful region.