Pairing Sicilian Cuisine With Red Wine

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I Love Italian Regional Cuisine - Pairing Sicilian Cuisine With Red Wine

By: Levi Reiss

Can you believe that an independent Sicily would rank seventh in the world when it comes to wine production? Again and again I was forced to strike suggested wines off the list because they aren't available in North America, at least not yet. So maybe you should plan a trip to this lovely, distinctive island and get local treats that just don't make it to North America such as Sicilian ices made from the snows of Mount Etna. Sicilian wine is meant for food. I still remember bringing a $40 bottle to my wine class a few years ago. Nobody, including me, was impressed. They didn't even finish the bottle, and so I had a single, small serving left. I brought the wine home and paired it with slow-cooked beef ribs. How do you say ooh-la-la in Italian?

Caponata Siciliana (Eggplant and Tomato Stew) is great as an appetizer or a side dish. My local supermarket sells a so-so version, but obviously homemade is the best. I haven't tried the sweet and sour version that often includes raisins. That's not my way of consuming grapes. The wines that are recommended for caponata are rarely available here, but one matche I liked was with the Novio Mezzacorona produced from Teroldego and Lagrein grapes native to the Trentino-Alto Adige region in northeastern Italy. This is a new wine, fairly similar to the French Beaujolais Nouveau. It is available for a few weeks after mid-November. Don't make a special purchase, after all we're not talking about a main dish.

Falsomagro (Stuffed Beef Roll) is made from ground beef, steak, and several cuts of pork including Italian ham and Italian bacon. You may find it hard to get the ingredients as is the case for many recommended wines. You should be able to find a Valtellina Superiore DOCG which comes from Lombardy.

Bollito Misto (Mixed Boiled Meats) is popular in many parts of Italy including Sicily. Every traditional cook and chef has his or her own recipe. This is one case where we can say the more the merrier. One of the many suggested sauces is mostarda di frutta (preserved spiced fruit), and the leftovers are delicious. Among the suggested wine pairings are Barbera D'Alba (Piedmont) and Rosso Piceno (The Marches).

Like in so many parts of Italy and frankly just about everywhere else, spaghetti and pizza are popular. Among the many local versions alla Norma (tomato, fried eggplant, ricotta cheese, and basil) is a real favorite. Variations abound, for example, the ricotta may be raw or baked. Serve them with a Chianti Classico from Tuscany or with a wine based on Sicily's up and coming signature grape, Nero d'Avola.

About the Author

Levi Reiss has authored or co-authored ten computer and Internet books, but definitely prefers drinking fine French, German, or other wine. He teaches classes in computers at an Ontario French-language community college. His global wine website www.theworldwidewine.com features a weekly review of $10 wines and new sections writing about and tasting organic and kosher wines. Visit his Italian wine website www.theitalianwineconnection.com .

(ArticlesBase SC #1947932)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - I Love Italian Regional Cuisine - Pairing Sicilian Cuisine With Red Wine

Foodie fun in Umbria | Umbria | ITALY Magazine

Foodie fun in Umbria | Umbria | ITALY Magazine

Ode to Sicilian Women « baroquesicily.com – Sicily Stories and Travel Tips from Jann Huizenga

Ode to Sicilian Women

March 3, 2010

You are bold and funny. Spicy and sweet. Kitchen goddesses; enthusiasts; enchantresses; fatalists; devotees of bambini, melodrama, and glee; believers in spirits and ghosts; possessors of thunderous hearts and skirts with fluted hems.
Vi voglio tanto bene!

Happy International Women’s Day (March 8)!

Here’s to you, Siciliane! Salute!

'Sala d'Arte San Giovanni' and 'Rocca di Tentennano', Castiglione d'Orcia

'Sala d'Arte San Giovanni' and 'Rocca di Tentennano', Castiglione d'Orcia

Sienese painting from XIV and XV centuries; a strategic defence point for the old Via Francigena

(Fonte: Fondazione Musei Senesi)

The San Giovanni art gallery is situated in the fraternity of the same name and conserves paintings done for Castiglione and Rocca d'Orcia by some of the leading figures of the Sienese school of the XIV and XV centuries: Simone Martini, Lorenzo di Pietro called 'il Vecchietta' and Giovanni di Paolo. Alongside these there is a series of liturgical furnishings coming from churches and confraternities of the area.
The 'Rocca' of Tentennano stands on a spur of calcareous rock in the heart of the Val d'Orcia. Built in the XIII century by the Conti Tignosi of Tintinnano in defence of the underlying Via Francigena, it belonged in the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries to the Sienese family of Salimbeni. The impressive fortress, in which Catherine of Siena stayed, had an important strategic function for the control of the southern territory of the ancient Sienese state and at the time of the "War of Siena", it represented one of the cornerstones of the defence system that succeeded in protecting the Sienese Republic, withdrawn to Montalcino, from the imperial assaults. A splendid panorama can be admired from its peak.

 

Da Vinci's Huge Horse Statue Proven Feasible

Virtual simulations demonstrate that Leonardo da Vinci's calculations were totally on mark in his plan to build the masterpiece that never came to be.

THE GIST:

• Leonardo Da Vinci's plan for the largest equestrian statue in the world was perfectly feasible.
• Fluid dynamics software has shown that the 24-foot-high horse would have been cast in a single pouring.
• The amount of bronze necessary to cast the horse was 70 tons -- exactly as Leonardo had calculated.

Read the whole article

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Five Things To Do In Friuli Venezia Giulia

by Elmclose99

Friuli-Venezia Giulia is one of the 5 beautiful regions of Italy and is famous for the delicious cuisines, cakes and wine. This place is well known for the beautiful ALPS Mountains. This region also offers various in door and out door actives like basket ball, skiing, exotic spas and horse riding.

Being surrounded with the sea this region is also famous for the beautiful beaches. Italy rentals are very popular in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region.

The first and most important thing tourists can do, tasting the delicious cuisines and various varieties of wine in this region. Friuli-Venezia Giulia is world famous for its wine such as vino Del Collio, Verduzzo di, Picolit, Tocai and Pinot. People specially come to this region for its wide variety and ultimate wine.

When it comes to food tourists will find Polenta a famous dish on every restaurant and resorts of this region. This dish is basically made of rabbit and served with the salted cheese known as frico. Tourists can also taste this cheese with butter. Soups of this region are also liked by the people as it is assorted with delicious species.

Nothing is better than relaxation during the holidays so for that this region has the best thing to do such as spas and sauna bath. Tourists will find these activities in every sea side, resorts and hotels. Friuli-Venezia Giulia is very famous for the excellent spas as the herbs used during this are extraordinary and unique. The best place where tourist can enjoy the spa is Grado Spa Station which is famous for the old herbalist tradition.

In addition to this spa tourists can also enjoy the sand bath and hot water swimming pool which makes it more attractive tourist's attraction. If you want to enjoy the sight seeing along with the spa then this region also offers you Lignano spa station which is newly constructed at the foot of ALPS Mountains and equipped with the modern facilities.

In Friuli Venezia Giulia tourists can also find places where skiing is done for adventure. There are many downhill slopes for those tourists who like adventure and want to run with the thrill of fast speed. This region also offers various small slopes, if tourists want to ski for relaxation.

Sella Nevea and the Julian Alps are well known ski areas which caters the different categories of skiers and new learners. Tourists can also hire the ski instructors and learn skiing easily. Besides skiing tourist can also enjoy various ice sports such as ice skating, snow boarding and the traditional dish of Friuli Mountains Sauris ham with the white wines.

Other thing to do is exploring the Art and Culture of this region. The best place of this region is city of Pordenone which is constructed almost 300 years ago and famous for its beautiful churches and decorative constructions. This is the city where tourists can feel the fragrance of the real heritage of this region.

Last but not the least; tourists can also enjoy the Lignano River which is famous for various water sports. This river is always occupied with numerous surfers and sailors and it the best place for kids also as it is equipped with the volley ball players. Families and couples come to the Friuli Venezia Giulia region of Italy to rent holiday homes and chalets and use it as a base to explore this beautiful region.

About the Author

Andrew Gibson is M.D of Direct Holiday Bookings. Italy rentals are popular with families staying in self catering holiday homes in Fruili. They also have a great selection of self catering apartments to rent in Fruili as holiday rentals.

Article Source: Content for Reprint

Tuscany Without the Crowds | Travel Deals

Tuscany Without the Crowds | Travel Deals

We came to visit friends who live here and to experience a Tuscany populated only by Tuscans.

Tripadvisor Reveals Europe's Sexiest Hotels

Tripadvisor Reveals Europe's Sexiest Hotels
By Tripadvisor, PRNE

Amsterdam's Black Tulip Hotel Tops List of Provocative Properties

LONDON, February 11 - TripAdvisor(R), the world's largest and most popular travel community,
today announced the top 10 sexiest hotels in Europe, based on TripAdvisor
editors and travellers. From seductive city suites, to beach-side personal
butlers, these properties offer serious va-va-voom for those seeking a sultry
sanctuary à deux.

TripAdvisor site data also reveals that Paris, London and Amsterdam boast
the most sizzling hotels in Europe, based on the "sexy index", calculating
the number of times that travellers use the term "sexy" in their candid
TripAdvisor reviews.

1. Black Tulip, Amsterdam

Centrally located in a stylish 16th century canal-side building this
hotel features specially designed 'lust' rooms. All rooms boast black-out
curtains and guests can take advantage of the "fun equipment" installed in
certain suites. As one TripAdvisor traveller explains, "The rooms are
seriously sexy, complete with all the bondage gear you could wish for."

2. Propeller Island City Lodge, Berlin

For couples looking to add some spice to their getaway the quirky art
installations within this hotel will not disappoint. Each room is uniquely
sexy - the 'Flying Bed' room includes a mattress as an iconic temple at the
top of an inclined ramp. The 'Galerie' room features a round bed with a
pedal-operated mechanism that allows it to spin on a pivot. "We stayed in the
room completely lined with mirrors. It was very tiny, but that was all part
of the fun," writes one TripAdvisor traveller.

3. The Witchery, Edinburgh

The hotel's magnificent Guardroom suite offers sheer aristocratic
decadence. If you tire of the delights of its romantic four-poster bed, the
suite has breath-taking views over Princes Street to Fife. From the brocade
and velvet bedroom furnishings to the antique double bath with its enormous
mirror The Witchery provides guests with sexiness from a bygone age. Even
X-Factor star Danni Minogue describes the hotel as "the perfect lust-den."

4. Buddha Bar Hotel, Prague

Couples seeking treats galore should add this hotel their wanton wish
list. This urban hotel offers stylish surroundings, not to mention a special
couples getaway package which includes a one-hour massage each, private use
of the jacuzzi, fresh flowers and a mood music CD. As one TripAdvisor
traveller writes, "A chilled bottle of champagne and a bowl of strawberries
waited for us along with a gift of massage oils, honey dust and feathers,
setting the pace for the most romantic honeymoon anyone could have."

5. Amour, Paris

The brainchild of a graffiti artist and nightclub entrepreneur the Amour
has everything you need for a sultry weekend. Bedrooms lead off black-painted
corridors lit by naked bulbs and each room offers something different. Some
have been decorated by named artists; others display risqué photographs.
Amour is summed up by one TripAdvisor traveller as "an ideal place to drink,
eat, sleep, find an intelligent conversation or be seduced."

6. The Hempel, London

Anouska Hempel's temple to minimalist Zen is hidden behind its discreet,
west-London, townhouse façade, giving it an instantly illicit feel. For
couples looking for something special the Lioness Den suite should be
explored. The bed is suspended from the ceiling by bars resulting in a
cage-like experience. As one TripAdvisor traveller writes, "The mattress, the
pillows and the blankets are all extremely lovable…excellent for couples."

7. Hotel Arts Barcelona, Barcelona

With its double showers and black-out blinds Hotel Arts oozes sex appeal.
The hotel's infamous art isn't the only thing that will appeal to amorous
guests - even the technology adds an air of passion. as one TripAdvisor
travellers explains, "We could lie in our fabulous, sumptuous bed, and using
a remote control, bring down electronic shutters to all the windows, they
even had their own CD called Barcelona Nights to help get you in the mood!"

8. Adam and Eve Hotel, Turkey Antalya Coast

With its sexy minimalist decor this hotel has been created specifically
with couples in mind. Not only does it provide aphrodisiac incense to spice
up your stay but guests can even select a 'fantasy box' for the room. Summed
up by one TripAdvisor traveller, "I recommend this hotel to all couples, but
come without children - it is really is a fantasy hotel…"

9. Suite Sistina, Rome

The four suites of this luxury residence bring together antique mosaics,
modern furniture and avant-garde technology to offer couples an
extraordinarily discreet and unique experience. With beds embraced by soft
silk, state-of-the-art stereo systems and romantic lighting your stay is sure
to be a passionately memorable one. As one TripAdvisor traveller notes,
"Really large round bed, twin tub in the bedroom. All electrics are centrally
controlled and the mood lighting certainly added to our stay."

10. Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat, Cote D-Azur

Located in the millionaire paradise on the peninsula of St. Jean Cap
Ferrat, this hotel is a once-in-a-lifetime luxury escape. Exclusive suites
offer everything from private swimming pools to personal butler service - the
sheer scale of excess is guaranteed to get pulses racing. One TripAdvisor
traveller is impressed with the hotel staff, "He arranged a very romantic
table setting complete with candles and even snuck me a rose to give to my
wife."

"Whether couples are looking for a traditional romantic getaway or
something a little more saucy, TripAdvisor travellers recommend all sorts of
hotels for a memorable and passionate retreat," said Emma O'Boyle,
spokesperson for TripAdvisor.

For further information please contact: Emma O'Boyle, TripAdvisor, +44(0)20-3320-3210 / +44(0)777-926-2423 / eoboyle at tripadvisor.com

Italy Travel Tours – Liguria Tour @ Falcon Eyes

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Italy Travel Tours – Liguria Tour @ Falcon Eyes

“Liguria tour” is one of the italy honeymoon packages offered by travel agents who organize international travel trips or who specialize in organizing trip around Italy. The duration of the “Liguria tour” Italy travel package is 4 days and 3 nights. The tourists are provided accommodation as part of this package in Hotel jolly Machiavelli in the Milan region. The trip starts with the visit to Genoa considered as one of the sea port which is the largest in the region of Southern Europe. This is the 5th largest city in Italy and the streets are narrow and of medieval origin. The Ancient port is a place to be visited here which was discovered by Christopher Columbus before 500 years. The second day of the trip starts with travel to Sanremo from Genoa which is famous for conducting the Italian Song festival and is also known as the city of flowers. The various forms of entertainment offered in this place are shops, beaches, cloth stores and promenades. At the end of the day, they return back to Genoa and on the next day, they travel to Porotvenere which is called as the village of fisherman. From here they can visit the Cinque Terre village by taking a boat ride and can enjoy the natural scenic beauty of this place which is recognized as a heritage site by UNESCO. After visiting this place, the tourists can enjoy the beauty of St. MArgherita Ligure and return back to Milan.

Vino Con Vista Florence

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I found this fascinating quote today

Florence, the world’s celebrated jewel of Renaissance art and architecture is famous for voluptuous domes and intimate restaurants. She rose to economic and cultural pre-eminence under the mighty Medici dynasty in the 15^th and 16^th centuries. The churches, galleries and palaces are brimming with masterpieces.Admin, Vino Con Vista, Mar 2010

You should read the whole article.

Food Gal » Blog Archiv » San Francisco’s A16 Still Going Strong

Food Gal » Blog Archiv » San Francisco’s A16 Still Going Strong

I must be hungry. Lots of food stuff today.

Tarquinia, Italy: Discovering the Enigmatic Etruscans

Tarquinia, Italy: Discovering the Enigmatic Etruscans

Tarquinia is a charming medieval hill-town encircled by 8 kilometers of turrets and fortifications. Characteristic of this region of Italy, the most important families in the middle ages protected themselves inside stone towers. Hundreds of years ago there were as many as 100 towers but now only about 20 remain. With a little digging however, visitors soon discover that Tarquinia’s Etruscan past is the real secret.

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Camping in Rural Italy | Camping Suggestions

Camping in Rural Italy | Camping Suggestions

With so many quality campsites positioned along the coast of Italy for holidaymakers to be close to the sea, it is easy to forget that there are also good campsites to try inland in rural Italy. Camping in the countryside among the trees and fresh air is at the heart of the camping experience. Take a look at three of Italy’s campsites that put you close to the sights of the cities while helping you to enjoy the delights of the countryside.

Florence Camping
Rome: The Eternal City
Lake Maggiore

Mountain Biking in Italy

 
SELLARONDA HERO MTB from diegomoroder on Vimeo.

I can't wait for summer weather. Watching this video makes the Chicago winter a littler better for those of us that enjoy the sport.

The Exotic Travel Destination in The World: Enjoy InThe Toscana

The Exotic Travel Destination in The World: Enjoy InThe Toscana

Beautiful Toscana, Italy
Tuscany (Italian: Toscana) is one of the 20 Regions of Italy. The capital is Florence, and it has an area of 22,990 km² and about 3.6 million inhabitants. Known for its landscapes and its artistic legacy, Tuscany is considered by some to be the most beautiful region in Italy. Six Tuscan localities have been made UNESCO protected sites: the historical center of Florence (1982), the historical center of Siena (1995), the square of the Cathedral of Pisa (1987), the historical center of San Gimignano (1990), the historical center of Pienza (1996) and the Val d' Orcia (2004).
Tuscany is a region of Central Italy, bordering Emilia-Romagna north, Liguria to the north-west, Tyrrhenian Sea to the west, Umbria and Marche to east, Lazio to the south-east. The territory is two thirds hilly and one fourth mountainous. The remainder is constituted by plains, that form the valley of the Arno River.
Read More in : theexcitingtraveldestinations.blogspot.com