Food and gardens! Two of my favorite things. Snipping fresh basil and thyme as you cook is a pure satisfaction. I have a passion for markets and handmade/homemade food. My two favorite markets are The Ferry Plaza Farmer's Market in San Francisco and the Wednesday Market in Umbertide, Italy. Both are a riot of color and smells.
In the 80s and 90s, I lived in San Francisco surrounded by great restaurants that made a fetish of fresh, seasonal produce and simple meals. Not all Bay Area restaurants were expensive, so you could find a good meal for under $20 in the neighborhoods. On the flip side, you could book 6 months in advance for a table at The French Laundry in Napa, pay a pretty penny, and have a transformational food experience. The passion for food was (and is) everywhere.
My food epiphany came in Italy. In the umbrian countryside, I learned that keeping it simple brought flavors to life. Let your main ingredients take center stage with some fresh herbs to enhance the natural flavors. The rules are: Buy the best ingredients. Buy fresh and in season. And don't overcomplicate the dish. Let the food speak for itself.
Here in New Jersey, my kitchen garden includes different types
of the same herbs. Lemon thyme, silver thyme, English thyme... All herbs are pretty and it's fun to experiment with the different colors and textures -- long, nubby leaves of gray green sage...tall, lacy dill... the purple-veined leaves of the chocolate mint. Mmmm... all mixing and mingling with flowers And figs!. This year I'm growing 3 thymes, 2 sages, 3 mints, 2 oreganos, 3 basils, lemon balm, lemon grass, dill, camomile, rosemary, rue, and chives. Sometimes I cut small bunches for the house so the aromas will fill the air and bring the outdoors in.
Musts for the kitchen -- good olive oil, good balsamic vinegar, good parmesan cheese and an open mind. And a quick tip to live by... always toast the nuts first.
I go back to Italy every year to see friends and soak in the soul of the piazza. Sometimes I take groups back with me, to cook, explore and enjoy the markets. If you are interested in a cooking adventure of your own in Italy? Check out www.umbrianadventure.com for details. If you are catching up with my life along the Delaware, visit Philadelphia Stories.
