|
About the Book |
|
About the History When writing about the history of Italian food in American culture, the history of Italy cannot be ignored. The battles, the ever-changing boundaries, the conquerors, the defeated, the topography, politics, art, music, literature—and everything else that makes a country what it is—become a part of its food.
About the Maps The maps created—Regions of Italy, Puglia, Puglia DOP, and the Roman Empire—offer a fairly accurate representation of the areas discussed. Referring to a map makes it easier to understand the geographic descriptions.
About the Terminology The main characters in Con Amore are Italian American or Italian, and all speak both English and Italian—to some degree. The varying degrees are based on the individual character’s background. Cultural distinctions and personalities of the characters allow them to speak words and passages in English and in Italian, depending on their preferences.
About the Food Since the early 1900s, pizza—along with many other Italian foods—has made the transition from specialty to commonplace. Today, Italian food is one of the most popular foods served in restaurants and cooked at home. The concept of Con Amore developed into a story based on the foods of Italy—many that started as trends—that are now part of America’s culture. |
|
Cappuccino Custard Chocolate Buns |
|
Manicotti Torta |
|
Stuffed Roasted Pepper Spirals |
|
Beef Rolls with Coffee Ragu |
|
Chocolate Crespelle with Sweetened Mascarpone and Figs |
|
Steak Stuffed with Roasted Peppers, Spinach, and Fontina |
|
Some of the recipes developed especially for Con Amore |
|
Con Amore was written to educate readers about the history, food, and achievements of Italians through the entertaining story of businesswoman and chef Janine Fiori.
The book offers a brief overview of the history of Italy and its regional foods, addresses the influence of Italian food in American culture, and mentions many great Italians and their achievements.
The characters portray Italians and Italian Americans in a positive image, emphasizing the well-known Italian traits of passion, beauty, and creativity. |
|
photographs ©2006 jtm |
|
©2008 Janice Therese Mancuso |
