Mamma Agata’s Cookbook

Mamma Agata CookbookMamma Agata: “Simple and Genuine” Italian Family Recipes is a cookbook that shares Mamma Agata’s culinary secrets from the Amalfi Coast, but it is a book to savor and enjoy far beyond the recipes.

The Mamma Agata Cookbook begins with the story of the Lima family and how their renowned cooking school in Ravello came about. Mamma Agata’s famous clientele over the years reads like a celebrity who’s who and includes Humphrey Bogart, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Elizabeth Taylor, and Pierce Brosnan.

But the highlight of this gorgeous collection is surely the recipes from Mamma Agata’s cucina — appetizers, pasta, risotto, meat, fish, and desserts. The simplicity and genuine Italian nature of the food shines in recipes such as stuffed zucchini flowers, gnocchi alla sorrentina, and lemon chicken. Sprinkled throughout are lots of helpful general tips and advice, including the secrets of frying and how to maximize the flavor of capers.

All of this, and we haven’t even mentioned the photographs. This 220+ page book is simply beautiful with amazing food photos as well as plenty of candid family and Amalfi scenery shots as well.

I highly recommend this cookbook to anyone who loves Italian cuisine, especially southern Italian; gorgeous cookbooks; family histories; or food in general.

5 espresso cups out of five!

 

** NOTE: I received a review copy of this book from the author; the opinions expressed are my own.

2 Beans of Wisdom to “Mamma Agata’s Cookbook”
  1. Beth
    02.26.2013

    Oh yum! I adore cookbooks, especially ones with Italian recipes, natch! So – where can I get this highly rated book??

    michelle Reply:

    Beth, click on the link in the post (or the photo) — I believe you have to order directly from Mamma Agata at this point 🙂


Recipes

 

Homemade apple butter
Green beans, potatoes, and pancetta
Glazed Apple Oatmeal Cinnamon Muffins
Pasta with snails alla calabrese
Onion, Oregano, and Thyme Focaccia
Oatmeal Banana Craisin Muffins
Prosciutto wrapped watermelon with bel paese cheese
Fried eggs with red onion and cheese
Calabrian sausage and fava beans
Ricotta Pound Cake