How does the blue mold get into Gorgonzola? Where did ice cream come from, in the days before refrigerators? What is there to tell about the wine of Piedmont? How are tomato preserves made? How does one recognize a genuine balsamic vinegar? What are the marks of quality that help to distinguish genuine products from imitations? What food was eaten in ancient Rome which specialties were served at court during the Middle Ages, and what culinary innovations accompanied the Renaissance? Culinaria Italy takes a look behind the scenes and answers these and many other questions of interest to lovers of Italian Cuisine. AUTHOR: Claudia Piras studied philosophy and literature. Her interest in Italian cuisine developed at a tender age?she will never forget the incomparable tomato sauce prepared by her Sardinian father, nor the mussels with lemon and charcoal-broiled fillet of veal at her grandmother's house in Oristano. She works in Munich as an editor, author, and translator. Over 1000 colour illustrations
