There was a time when I thought eating sweets, meant gluttony.
Until 1998, on the first of many journeys to what I wish was my motherland; Italy. Things were done differently there it seemed. Evidently, energy and intent was sifted through mouth-watering treats. And why? To bring people together. To interact. To reminisce. To ponder.
Perhaps this notion is best described as good old fashioned ‘being’ — an antiquitous human art form that the Italians have preserved immaculately. Indeed, their art of ‘edible being’ is a delectable combination. Fittingly they say; ‘Nessuno conosce che cosa sta cucinando nella vaschetta meglio di chi fa la mescolatura (no one knows what is cooking in the pan better than the one doing the stirring). Hence, this book is a treasure trove of 51 traditional Italian desserts to be created with thought and energy — so that he who devours the end result will be devouring something with beautiful intent. The recipes in Dolci, With Love have been passed on by some very dear friends, from the exquisite Amalfi Coast. They epitomized ‘edible being’ down to the last mouthful of Tiramisu. I hope for these recipes to entice friends, family and loved ones to the table. I hope that many a tale is shared. I hope bonds are created. I hope new memories are discovered.
All over an inarguably delicious Italian sweet.
