Sunday, April 27, 2008

THE LOST RAVIOLI RECIPES OF HOBOKEN: A SEARCH FOR FOOD AND FAMILY
by Laura Schenone

An obsession to find her great-grandmother's authentic ravioli recipe takes Laura Schenone across the ocean, from New Jersey, to Genoa. She's welcomed into the kitchens and trattorias of the elders, always questioning their methods, watching and trying to remember so that she can reproduce what she has learned.
Schenone writes about what constitutes the dough; should it be hand-rolled or go the modern way and use a pasta-making machine; what kind of cheese is used (a real surprise) ; the role of chestnuts; family feuds; the immigrant experience.
The latter part of the book has a section called "Lost and Found Recipes" which are written with precise instructions, some accompanied by pictures. There's resources for cookware, ingredients, cooking classes, culinary tours, etc.
If you want a sneak preview, check out the author's website at: www.lostravioli.com.
The Lost Ravioli Recipes of Hoboken is an absolute gem. The author seamlessly weaves her family history and food together in a fabulous memoir.
Very highly recommended.