Soffritto (A Return to Italy)

A family saga, a love story, an eating guide, and a travel memoir to the birthplace of pesto, parmesan, prosciutto, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil

This recollection follows Lucio Galletto as he returns to his homeland in search of his foundations, his personal "soffritto"—the starter kit of olive oil, garlic, and herbs from which a great dish is bilt. In 1975, Lucio moved to Australia for a woman with whom he fell in love at his parents' restaurant in northern Italy. This narrative traces Lucio's journey home again to study the food and culture that formed him. Investigating how the cooking of the region had evolved during his 25-year absence, he found a new breed of chefs, farmers, and fishermen adapting traditions to the environmental concerns of the 21st century—still using the wonderful array of local herbs, vegetables, and seafood, they apply a lighter touch and a more adventurous spirit. Full of tales from farmers, fishermen, war heroes, winemakers, waiters, hunters, cooks, cousins, aunts, shepherds, and scholars, this portrait of a journey explores the ingredients that make a life.  Also features over 50 recipes from Liguria.  Metric measurements.