'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 Roddy

Istria 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.

About the Author

Paola Bacchia was born to Italian migrant parents and into their food culture. Her award-winning blog, Italy On My Mind, explores the connection between family memories and food through stories, photos and recipes. She returns to Italy every year to expand her knowledge of Italian food and traditions. Previously, she published Italian Street Food and Adriatico with Smith Street Books.

Book Information
ISBN 9781922417183
Author Paola Bacchia
Format Hardback
Page Count 272
Imprint Smith Street Books
Publisher Smith Street Books