Ep 20. Terre E Mare

Lidia's Italy season 3 episode 20, titled "Terre E Mare," takes viewers on a culinary journey through the diverse regions of Italy. Host Lidia Bastianich is joined by her friend and fellow chef, Carlo Cracco, as they explore the unique flavors found along Italy's shores and in its countryside.

The episode begins with Lidia and Carlo visiting a local fish market in the coastal town of Gallipoli. There, they sample some of the fresh seafood caught that morning, including octopus and sea bream. Lidia uses these ingredients to create a delicious seafood stew, while Carlo demonstrates how to make a classic Italian dish, risotto with clams.

Next, the pair travels inland to the town of Martina Franca, known for its production of white wine and dairy products. Lidia and Carlo visit a cheese factory where they observe the production of burrata and mozzarella. They also sample some of the local wines and learn about the winemaking process.

Back in the kitchen, Lidia uses the cheeses from the factory to create a dish featuring orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese, and cherry tomatoes. Carlo prepares a creamy rice dish which is topped with grated Parmesan cheese and drizzled with a balsamic reduction.

Finally, Lidia and Carlo visit a local farm in the countryside, where they learn about the production of olive oil. They participate in the harvest and see how the olives are pressed to extract the oil. Lidia uses the locally produced oil to create a recipe for roasted vegetables, while Carlo prepares a traditional dish of bruschetta with tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil.

Throughout the episode, Lidia and Carlo showcase the diverse ingredients and flavors found in different regions of Italy. They share their knowledge and passion for Italian cuisine while highlighting the importance of using fresh, local ingredients. Viewers are sure to be inspired to try some of these recipes and explore the cuisine of Italy.