Recipes spark memory, connection

SUMMER 2021 Newsletter
By Anne Deaton, founding member of The Common Ingredient

I love antiquing. I love finding that perfect “little something” that matches the unique interests of a cherished family member or friend and surprising them with it for no reason except to share my love. One thing I always check out is the cookbook section because I know most folks’ culinary interests. I’ve found some real gems for them--and sometimes for myself. It was for me that I purchased The Italian Cookbook, published by The Culinary Arts Institute in Chicago, 1954. The book was developed in consultation with Marion Granato, founder of Granato’s Pizzeria in Chicago.

I really didn’t need one more cookbook, especially not an Italian one. Because all my grandparents emigrated from Italy, I had learned to cook many traditional Italian dishes from my mother, grandmother, and aunts. But this little soft-back book with its charming front cover drawing of “Mama” rolling out dough in a kitchen filled with bread, vegetables, salami hanging from the ceiling, and wine caught my attention and captured my heart. The recipes from anti-pasta to dessert are authentic and simple. Each recipe begins with a proud declaration that Italy is the mother of continental European cookery. I was especially touched by the preface to “Breads” which talks about how the Italians take the expression “earning one’s bread and wine” very literally in that many a meal might consist of only bread, soup, or cheese and wine…by choice. It brought back precious memories of my Mom sitting at our kitchen table in Brooklyn eating fresh Italian bread and provolone for lunch. And like many Italians she removed the center of the bread and ate only the crunchy crisp, outside crust.

The pages of The Italian Cookbook are sprinkled with photos of many dishes and whimsical drawings like the one of two women in traditional dress meeting on the road, one bringing a pig to market and the other returning home with a basket of potatoes; or the one featuring a family going off to town with the mother and six children packed into a horse drawn cart driven by the father; or the opera singer dramatically performing.

The 68 pages of this little cook book contain all one could ask for: nutritious and delicious recipes, a great section on cooking tips, delightful art and photography --- and best of all, a deep appreciation and love for good food and the fellowship it nurtures when eaten with family and friends.