Ep 5. My Italian American

Lidia's Kitchen is a cooking show that features Lidia Bastianich, an Italian-American chef, and restaurateur. In season 7 episode 5, titled My Italian American, Lidia explores the culinary traditions of Italian-Americans.

Throughout the episode, Lidia shares personal stories and anecdotes about growing up in an Italian-American family and how food played a central role in their household. She visits a marketplace in Little Italy where she picks up some fresh ingredients for her dishes and talks with the local vendors about their Italian heritage.

Lidia begins by making a classic Italian-American dish, spaghetti and meatballs. She shares her recipe for tender and flavorful meatballs and a tomato sauce that is both savory and sweet. While the meatballs are cooking, Lidia prepares a simple side of sautéed broccoli rabe with garlic and crushed red pepper.

Next, Lidia makes a dish that she remembers from her childhood, chicken scarpariello. She uses bone-in chicken thighs and simmers them with sweet cherry peppers, garlic, and white wine until the meat falls off the bone. Lidia also shares her tip for making the perfect crispy skin on the chicken.

For dessert, Lidia prepares a classic Italian-American treat, cannoli. She shows how to make the crispy, crunchy shells and a ricotta filling that is light and creamy. To finish off the dish, she sprinkles the cannoli with powdered sugar and mini chocolate chips.

Throughout the episode, Lidia emphasizes the importance of preserving culinary traditions and passing them down to future generations. She also highlights the unique flavors and techniques that Italian-Americans have brought to the culinary world.

Overall, My Italian American is a heartwarming and educational episode that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Italian-Americans. Lidia's passion for cooking and sharing her family's traditions is contagious, making this episode a must-watch for anyone who loves Italian cuisine.