Cooking Italian Food
Cooking Italian food is simpler than many people think. It is not necessary to have a high level of culinary skill, just a love for food, a sense of adventure, and willingness to try new things.
When cooking Italian food it is necessary to have all of the kitchen basics, such as pots, pans, a cook top and oven, and basic utensils. There are only a few specific tools that are recommended to make Italian food preparation easier; a colander for draining pastas and vegetables, a chef's knife for mincing, a large stock pot for cooking pastas, noodles, for making stews, and braising meats, and wooden spoons for stirring. Wooden spoons are recommended because they do not change flavors of acidic ingredients like tomatoes, and do not get hot when left in the pan like metal spoons.
Cooking Italian food is all about fresh ingredients. Fresh meats, vegetables, cheeses, and fruits should always be selected. Take advantage of fruits and vegetables that are in season. Most Italians shop for their groceries on a day-to-day basis, making sure everything is of the utmost quality and freshness.
It is important to have certain staples on hand in every Italian kitchen. Olive oil; vegetable oil; red and white wines; different types of dried pastas such as lasagna, spaghetti, short pasta cuts, and orzo; baking products like flour, sugar, and chocolate; various dried herbs and spices; yeast for making bread; butter; anchovies and canned fish; capers; and of course garlic should always be available.
Most Italian chefs, cooks, and even Italian Grandmas will tell you that cooking Italian food is all about love, flavor and family. Meals are always prepared with care and the best possible ingredients. Italian food is not just about the need to eat, it is an experience. Dinner is a time to bring people together, to share stories, information, and wonderful food.