At Nonna's Table - by Paola Bacchia
'Istria is testament to the idea that recipes are so much more than instructions, that they are accumulated layers of stories and histories, both personal and collective, brought to life every time a dish is made. An exquisite book.’ — Rachel Roddy
Istria is the heart-shaped promontory at the northern crux of the Adriatic Sea, where rows of vines and olives grow in fields of red earth. Here, the cuisine records a history of changing borders — a blend of the countries (Italy, the Republic of Venice, Austria, Hungary and now Slovenia and Croatia) that have shared Istria’s hills and coasts and valleys.
This book is a record of traditions, of these cultures and of Paola’s family: recipes from her childhood, the region’s past, and family and friends who still live beside the Adriatic coast. Among recipes for semolina dumplings, beef and pork goulash and apricot strudel are memories of the region and stories of the recipes’ authors: the Italian-Istrians who remained in the region after the 1940s, and those who left for new countries.
About the Author
Paola Bacchia was born to Italian migrant parents and into their food culture. Her award-winning blog, Italy On My Mind, explores the connection between family memories and food through stories, photos and recipes. She returns to Italy every year to expand her knowledge of Italian food and traditions. Previously, she published Italian Street Food and Adriatico with Smith Street Books.
The book is hard cover with gold leaf on the cover, a debossed title and blue-edged pages.
Step into the warm and welcoming kitchen of Nonna Livia with Paola Bacchia’s cookbook, At Nonna’s Table.
Inspired by her mamma Livia’s cherished recipes, Paola presents 60 delicious dishes that celebrate the best of Italian home cooking. From soups and appetisers through to main courses, sides, desserts and pickles and preserves, this book is a treasure trove of traditional and contemporary Italian dishes made with love and care.
Complete with beautiful photography to accompany each delicious recipe, this book showcases the fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and simple techniques that make Italian food so beloved. From the hearty Peperonata con melanzane e pomodori (Eggplant and Tomato Stew) to the crowd-pleasing Pollo Ripieno (Celebration Chicken) and the indulgent Mamma’s Orange Cake, alongside heartfelt stories from Paola’s childhood and her mum’s life, this book will delight lovers of food and family.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just beginning, At Nonna’s Table is the perfect guide to recreating the warmth and joy of an Italian family kitchen in your own home.
About the Author
Paola Bacchia was born to Italian migrant parents and into their food culture. Her award-winning blog, Italy On My Mind, explores the connection between family memories and food through stories, photos and recipes. She returns to Italy every year to expand her knowledge of Italian food and traditions.
Previously, Paola has published Adriatico (2018), Istria (2021) and Italian Street Food (2021).
