These Taggiasche pitted olives are brined and stored in extra-virgin olive oil. Serve them as an antipasto, scattered on a pizza or pressed into focaccia. Aceto balsamico has a variety of uses in the Italian kitchen, the most common being as a condiment for salads (along with olive oil and a pinch of salt); but that would be restrictive. Balsamic vinegar is also used on chunks of Parmigiano Reggiano, on risotto, on scaloppini, and even strawberries and gelato! Just make sure you buy traditional balsamic vinegar, which is only made in Modena and Reggio Emilia (it must be labeled Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale and carry a D.O.P. -Denominazione di Origine Protetta- stamp). Chiacchiere are one of the most famous Italian pastries enjoyed all across the country during carnival (just before lent). They can go by different names depending on the region you’re in; bugie in Liguria, frappe in Lazio, or cenci in Tuscany. If you don't happen to have a free day (and an ample tomato harvest) to gather the family to make and bottle your own, then this rich, cooked tomato concentrate is the next best thing. Produced in Italy, it makes the perfect base for a simple pizza or pasta dish. In the local dialect, sporcamuss means ‘dirty mouth’. The unusual name highlightsthe fact that it’s pretty much impossible to bite into one without getting cream and sugar all over your mouth and face. Don’t forget to grab a napkin!

The name maritozzo derives from the word “marito” which is Italian for “husband”. It comes from a unique tradition in 19th-century Rome, in which men would propose on the first Friday of March by presenting their future brides with an engagement ring hidden inside a maritozzo. (Is it wrong we’d probably want the pastry more than the ring?) There is a wide range of pasta sauces available in store, almost entirely ready made to make it easier for you and your family to get an authentic taste of Italy. We’ll recommend which to include in your 5-star meal at home.That’s our guide to the best Italian pastries your must try. Got any questions or suggestions? Let us know in the comments below. On of my favorite ways to use capers is to fry them. Frying will make them nice and crisp and perfect for appetizer toppings. They will taste like tiny little chips and who doesn't love chips?;)

Chili Flakes: (red pepper flakes): Chili flakes are something I use quite a lot to spice up sauces and add some heat. I also loved the jarred chili pastes you can buy, they taste incredible!A maritozzo is an ancient delicacy from Rome consisting of a sweet brioche bun split down the middle and filled with whipped cream. It may be extremely simple, but it’s one of the most popular Italian breakfast pastries in the Lazio region. And when I'm tired and don't know what to cook, I always refer to pasta dishes. If we have tomato sauce, dinner is ready. If we have a Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top, there's no a better meal. Ciao, we're Emily and Nathan. Our years living in Italy taught us how to cook authentic and delicious Italian food. We're here to help you put a beautiful meal on the table with tried and tested recipes you can trust. Air-dried yellow corn is stoneground to produce a coarse "Bramata"-style grain, which is the perfect foil for rich ragù or pasta sauces.

Polenta: When it comes to polenta you can get two types fast cook polenta that's ready in 5 minutes or traditional polenta that takes around 30 minutes to cook. I absolutely love serving polenta with stews and sauces dishes such as meatballs. You can also let it set and use it to build lasagna type dishes, gnocchi or top bakes with it. Top Tip: I prefer traditional polenta the texture and taste is 100x better so it's worth the extra time and effort!Fruity and a little tart, balsamic vinegar has such a versatile use. Think salad dressings, glaze for meat and fish, drizzle over your favorite appetizers. Try my Easy Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Vinaigrette. Dried Oregano: I use oregano in a ton of sauces, choosing a good one makes such a difference. Buy a bunch of dried oregano that you can often find in Italian specialty stores rather than in jars but if you can't find that go for organic.

At the pantry there is a collection of oils and vinegars from varying locations, including beautiful Sicily. Derived from various olives, you can have your taste of each oil before you make your decision, and every age of balsamic – or of course treat yourself to varying types for different occasions! Whether it’s for cooking, dressings, or just a drizzle, there’s an olive oil for you here. Chiacchiere are another traditional Italian carnival pastry, consisting of strips of sweet dough that puff up slightly when fried and are served dusted with powdered sugar. Chiacchiere – also called “Angel Wings”– are known for their signature rectangular shape with two slits down the middle and crimped edges. They’re delicate, crumbly, and incredibly addictive.Italy is a country famous for its cuisine. From delicious pizza and pasta to world-famous cheese and award-winning wines, there’s so much to offer. But let’s not forget about Italy’s mouthwatering desserts and pastries too.