“We do not do this work for the money,” begins legendary Italian butcher, Dario Cecchini, and nothing has ever been more clear. The gregarious, eighth-generation butcher is never without a smile on his face as he holds court from sun-up through supper time in his red-and-white-striped butcher shop and kitchen in Panzano, Italy. In this introductory story, follow Dario through a day in the life, which includes the real deal business of butchery, and hosting dozens of visitors a day for cantina-style meals in his dining room. He talks about the dignified and joyous life cycle of his animals, and the craftsmanship his team applies to the end product. He explains the inspiration behind his butcher for a day program, and how to identify the perfect steak. The story ends with a family-style dinner, where t-bones get passed between strangers so everyone can gnaw on the scraps. From the outside, it looks like a very long day, but Dario insists “he’s never worked a day in his life.”
Category: Salt
Salt
Preserved Lemons
Preserved lemons are an important part of Erez’s kitchen. The salty, briny, citrus flavor brings a beautiful pop of color and flavor, and brightens up any dish.
Salt-Crusted Pears with Dulce De Leche
A simple dessert that only calls for 3 ingredients: Pears, salt, and dulce de leche. “When you cook a pear like this, all of the humidity of the pear stays inside so it’s very, very delicious,” Francis says.
Salt-Crusted Trout
Francis invented the infiernillo or “little hell” oven about 20 years ago. Today, he proclaims his love for Patagonian trout as he fires up his small inferno to teach you how to make freshly-caught salt-crusted trout.
Backyard Barbecue
Join Edward and Ben, home chef and community leader, as they throw a backyard barbecue. Learn Ben’s special brine, and how to grill meats and vegetables.
Braised Tofu & Radish with Ham Salt
Learn how to create a flavorful, luscious silken tofu dish with a fatty broth, braised daikon, and an apple-ginger purée. Master knife skills and learn how to cut radishes into perfect cubes and matchsticks with Edward’s guidance. Plate an elegant dish that will impress your dinner guests.