After spying some dried porcini in the pantry, I was in the mood for some warm, earthy mushroom soup for dinner this eve.  This soup is simple to prepare and wonderfully hearty when pared with a chunk of garlic-rubbed toasted bread. I topped the soup with some pancetta crumbles to add a crunchy bite to the soup and finished with a drizzle of fruity olive oil.  You could also perhaps stir in some freshly grated parmesan or chopped sundried tomatoes.

Continue reading Porcini Mushroom Soup with Pancetta Crumbles at Our Italian Table.

Aaaahhh, my dear Isabella and Luigi….grazie mille for so many fond memories of Montalcino.  Having just spent a few weeks on the international business trail, my days were filled with foreign sights and sounds but my dreams were filled with the wonderfully warm memories of my recent visit to magical Montalcino – memories that I will not easily forget.  And all of it thanks to you both and the wonderful window that your writings and hospitality have afforded me.   

Continue reading Porcini, White Bean and Sausage Stew at Our Italian Table.