Paola Bacchia – författare

‘Istria is testament to the idea that recipes are so much more than instructions, that they are accumulated layers of stories and histories, both personal and collective, brought to life every time a dish is made. An exquisite book.’ — Rachel RoddyIstria is the heart-shaped promontory at the northern crux of the Adriatic Sea, where rows of vines and olives grow in fields of red earth. Here, the cuisine records a history of changing borders — a blend of the countries (Italy, the Republic of Venice, Austria, Hungary and now Slovenia and Croatia) that have shared Istria’s hills and coasts and valleys.This book is a record of traditions, of these cultures and of Paola’s family: recipes from her childhood, the region’s past, and family and friends who still live beside the Adriatic coast. Among recipes for semolina dumplings, beef and pork goulash and apricot strudel are memories of the region and stories of the recipes’ authors: the Italian-Istrians who remained in the region after the 1940s, and those who left for new countries.

A food journey along Italy’s Adriatic coast to discover authentic dishes off the tourist trail.The Italian coast of the Adriatic Sea runs from the tip of the heel of the boot-shaped peninsula at the Ionian Sea to the northern waters of the Gulf of Trieste. Along its length are rugged rocky coastlines, sandy stretches of beach, lagoons and wetlands. Spindly wooden fishing piers, white-washed walls, colourful villages and sea-facing piazze dot the 750-mile coastline, with a history touched by Etruscan, Greek, Roman, Venetian and Austrian populations. The food of the Adriatic mirrors the memories and traditions of peoples past and present who have lived on its shores, with ingredients reflecting the climate and terrain. Join Paola on this beautiful journey.

Recipes and stories from Nonna’s table. 'Reading At Nonna’s Table brought a big smile to my face. Every recipe is enticing and doable; while the stories are so warm it’s a book you’ll read whenever you are missing the hugs of your own family.' – Vicky Bennison 'A book written with love; full of nostalgia, comforting recipes for feeding loved ones and stories recounting a way of life that would otherwise be all too quickly forgotten.' – Emiko Davies Step into the warm and welcoming kitchen of Nonna Livia with Paola Bacchia’s cookbook, At Nonna’s Table. Inspired by her Mamma Livia’s cherished recipes, Paola presents 60 delicious dishes that celebrate the best of Italian home cooking. From soups and appetisers through to main courses, sides, desserts and pickles and preserves, this book is a treasure trove of traditional and contemporary Italian dishes made with love and care. Complete with beautiful photography to accompany each delicious recipe, this book showcases the fresh ingredients, bold flavours and simple techniques that make Italian food so beloved. From the hearty Peperonata con melanzane e pomodori (Eggplant and Tomato Stew) to the crowd-pleasing Pollo Ripieno (Celebration Chicken) and the indulgent Torta arancia e cocco con albicocche (Orange Cake with Apricots), alongside heartfelt stories from Paola’s childhood and her mum’s life, this book will delight lovers of food and family. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just beginning, At Nonna’s Table is the perfect guide to recreating the warmth and joy of an Italian family kitchen in your own home.