Italian Kitchenware

You are currently browsing the archive for the Italian Kitchenware category.

Product of the Month: Microplane Grater

September 7, 2010 in Italian Kitchenware, Product Reviews by Simple Italian Cooking Blog | 2 comments

This product was pointed out to me by one of our readers as their favorite tool in the kitchen.  I actually do not own one – and now wish I did and probably will very soon.   I’ll explain why.

A microplane is a type of grater.  They are made of stainless steel and have “micro” fine holes for grating a variety of foods from Italian cheeses to lemon peels and whole nutmeg.

Some microplanes are designed for coarser grating, so not all of them are the same.

When you use it for cheese, the cheese will be extremely fine and delicate, meaning it will also melt quickly.   If serving a pasta meal, I would suggest letting everyone grate their own cheese, or have a bowl filled with the cheese so everyone can spoon out the amount they want.

In Cleveland, OH, there is a store called Gallucci’s.  My husband’s family goes their each week to get fresh Italian goodies.

Last year we went and now I’m a complete fan of their grated Romano cheese.  Why?  Because it is grated so fine, and I haven’t been able to find anything like it around where I live.

The best part of these graters – they are quite affordable ranging from $3.00 to $35.00.   Here is a  Microplane which is one of the favorites over at Amazon.  In fact, at the time of this post, it was considered the best selling and had over 300 reviews!

Microplaners can make excellent gifts because they can be used for a variety of cuisines – not just Italian.  That means anyone who cooks can use one.

So whether sprinkling cheese over your clams and linguine, salad, or other pasta recipes, or perhaps grating some lemon zest for a nice dressing – I’m sure you will find many uses for it in your kitchen!

Sincerely,

Liz

www.simpleitaliancooking.com
Easy Italian Recipes

Making Meatballs Using a Meat Grinder

July 15, 2010 in Italian Kitchenware by Simple Italian Cooking Blog | No comments

There are many benefits a person experiences when owning a meat grinder.  One of those reasons is too…. answer please…. grind meat.

By being able to grind your own meat, whether it be beef, turkey, chicken or venison, you are able to have fresh meat to your liking for many recipes.  Here is one of my favorite recipes below – Italian meatballs.

To get started:

Using your meat grinder like the Waring Pro MG-800, grind the raw meat using the ‘fine’ plate.   This is the setting you would normally use for hamburgers or meatloaf.  The medium and course settings are more for soups and chili.

Place the raw meat in the feeding tube and use the pusher to slide any unwilling pieces down.  The grinder will chop the meat and push it through the plate where it extrudes into your bowl.

Remember to follow the instructions for cleaning the parts properly.  This is very important to the longevity of your parts with the Waring Pro.

If you are not going to make the meatballs right away, go ahead and store in the fridge, but no more than 2 days.   It is best to use it right away when the meat is freshest.   You can also freeze the meat for longer storage periods.

This is a good idea when grinding large amounts of meat at one time.

Making the Meatballs

Some people use a combination of beef and pork, but I prefer my meatballs with just meat.

  1. To make about 10 meatballs, combine all the following ingredients:
    1 lb beef
    2 eggs
    1/2 cup breadcrumbs (unseasoned)
    2 Tablespoons basil
    3 Tablespoons Parmesan or Romano cheese (grated)
    1 clove garlic chopped
    1 teaspoon of salt and pepper
  2. Form into round balls which fit into the palm of your hand – not too big, but not too small either.
  3. Heat about 1/4 cup olive oil in a large deep sided skillet (preferably not non-stick) and once the oil is hot, gently add the meatballs in.
  4. Cook over med-high heat about 4 minutes with the lid partially covered.
  5. Once they have cooked and browned more than half way through turn each over with a fork or spatula and continue heating until cooked thoroughly.
  6. When finished, let drain on some paper towels on a plate to help absorb the extra grease.
  7. Serve with some sauce and enjoy!

Tips

Here are some tips from my own experience:

  1. If the oil begins to smoke and bits of the meatballs turn black and start to smell, you do not have enough oil.   Add in extra oil.  If everything smells like burnt meat, you may need to remove from heat and let cool to clean it out a bit.
  2. I found it most useful to use a fork to move the meatballs around rather than a spatula.  The meatballs should easily roll when they are ready.  Check it every few minutes and you will tell the difference.  This took me awhile to get the hang of because I was so afraid everything would burn – but this was not the case.
  3. I made the mistake of squeezing everything into the pan to try and save time.  Don’t do this.  Instead take your time and allow for enough room for the meatballs to move around.

I wish you the best in your cooking endeavors with your meat grinder friendly recipes!

Liz

www.simpleitaliancooking.com
Italian Recipes

Can you use a gelato maker to make ice cream?

July 8, 2010 in Italian Kitchenware by Simple Italian Cooking Blog | No comments

I had this question myself when writing a review about the Delonghi GM6000 gelato maker.  It took me awhile to find the answer until I called up the tech support department at Delonghi’s product store.

The answer is yes and no.  You can use ice cream recipes in the machine, but it will not taste exactly  like American ice cream.  Instead it will have more of a gelato consistency – let me explain why.

The reason is due to the hermetic air tight lid which must be locked in place for the machine to run.   This prevents any additional air from mixing in during the blending process – usually 25-30 minutes.  This is one of the critical differences between Italian and American ice cream.

If you use an ice cream recipe, you will be using cream rather than regular whole milk which gelato uses.  But it is the fact that ice cream can contain up to 50% air – and this just isn’t going to happen with a gelato maker.

So, yes you can make ice cream – but it will have the consistency of gelato.   If you own a gelato maker, then I would suggest experimenting.  I know that people do use ice cream recipes in gelato makers, and sometimes just do not process it as long.   There are lots of helpful recipes online at places like Amazon where you can get recipes for both ice cream and gelato ideas.

If you haven’t read my review for what I consider the best gelato machine, you might want to do so because I cover a lot of other questions you may have.

Sincerely,

Liz w/ Simple Italian Cooking

Use a Gelato Ice Cream Maker This Summer and Have Fun

June 26, 2010 in Italian Kitchenware by Simple Italian Cooking Blog | 4 comments



If you have ever been to Italy and had a craving for ice cream and decided to walk into a store to buy some –  you might be surprised at what you get.

The first time I had gelato was in Rome during the summer.  It was not what I expected as I was only familiar with regular American ice cream.  But I can see why Italians love this version of ice cream.  Be careful however, because when you have it you may never want to go back to regular ice cream again.

Gelato is made with whole milk and not cream like it’s American counterpart.  It also is made with very little air unlike regular ice cream which is approximately 50% air.  Therefore gelato has a much denser and creamier texture.

In addition gelato does not use egg yolk which ice cream does.  Given all these factors you can see why gelato is favored among people who diet because it is a lower caloric dessert.

Gelato comes in many flavors such as pistachio, almonds, chocolate, raspberries, strawberry etc.

Make Gelato at Home!

You will not fine gelato at your regular grocery store.  So what does one do?  You can make it at home using a Gelato Maker.  These are not the same as an ice cream maker and here is why.  Most ice cream makers or machines will have an opening at the top where you can pour in your ingredients.  It is not a closed off and sealed off lid, because you want the air to circulate in the ice cream with the ingredients during the blending process.  Remember ice cream contains up to 50% air.

But that is ice cream and we’re talking about gelato.  With the gelato maker you want to have an airtight enclosure which keeps air out during the blending process.  For example, the DeLonghi GM6000 Gelato Maker with Self-Refrigerating Compressor has a special lid which does exactly that for the sole purpose of keeping air out.  It is called a hermetic closure lid.  Anyone who says you can make gelato with an ice cream maker which allows air to circulate might make gelato – but not the way it is supposed to taste.

You can read my full detailed review for the Delonghi GM6000 model here.

Another difference between the two types of machines is that many ice cream machines require you to pre freeze a bowl in the freezer overnight to make it cold enough when it is used.  With this particular GM600 model, Delonghi gives it its own refrigerating compressor which brings the bowl and ingredients to below freezing temperatures which is very importance when making gelato.  It is not so important when making ice cream so the difference is critical.

When to Make Gelato

If you’re wondering when you made use such a machine that is easy to answer.  These are great for parties and guests and anytime you want to have some.  You can make your batches of ice cream beforehand and offer different varieties using various ice cream recipes.  There are lots of cookbooks online such as Amazon which feature recipes for gelato.   I’ve read how some people will make their batches of gelato and freeze them in nice containers and then give them away as gifts for friends.  I think this is an excellent idea.

Personally, I would think one of the best times to use this is when having a kid’s party such as a birthday party.  How cool would kids think it is two make their own ice cream?!  I know that I would have been very excited if my family had one of these when I was a child.

To be honest I know I still would be even today – let’s admit it, everyone is still a kid inside!

Yours Truly -

Liz
www.simpleitaliancooking.com
Simple Italian Recipes

How to Use a Stainless Steel Stove Top Espresso Maker

June 23, 2010 in stainless steel stovetop espresso makers by Simple Italian Cooking Blog | No comments

I have used espresso pots for over 10 years and am happy show you how to use them. In fact I’ve made a video you can watch at the end of the post where I illustrate how to use one.

Using  stovetop espresso makers or pots as they are sometimes called, are one of that most easiest, practical and convenient ways to make your own lattes and espressos every day in your own home.

I’ve also written an Alessi 9090 Espresso Maker Review Here which is a designer brand from Italy.

To begin with, every espresso maker has three parts, a bottom, top and middle.

Espresso

The bottom part is a reservoir which you fill with water.  Do not go above the safety valve.

The middle part is the filter where you put your espresso grinds.

The top part is where the final product aka the espresso ends up.

The basic principle works like this: The water you put in the reservoir will begin to boil.  This causes the water to boil up through the filter.  Naturally, this flavors the water producing espresso.  It then continues upward making its way through a spout which is in the top part.  The espresso comes out of the spout and fills the top reservoir.  When the water is finished boiling you are left with espresso and you pour it directly from the espresso pot into your espresso cups.

You can serve the espresso straight as the Italians do.  However espresso can be very bitter in taste.  Most people will have to add a lot of sugar to sweeten it, or you can do what I like to do and that is pour the espresso into a coffee mug, about two or 3 ounces worth, and then fill with about 6 ounces of milk.  Pop it in the microwave to heat the milk.  Some people preheat the milk.

You can also use a Milk Frother which is a perfect device to make the milk foamy, and then you can pour it into the mug.

The maker in the video is a 4 cup model, but they range anywhere from 1 cup sizes (produces about 2 oz) to 12 cup sizes as sold by Vev Vigano Makers.

The larger size is excellent to keep on hand for when having company or parties.  When my husband and I would have my parents over, we would make them espressos.  We only had a 2 cup size and it would have been nice to have a larger size like a six  cup because everyone wanted two servings.  It would have been nice to make the espresso all in one shot (pun not intended).

To see the use of a stove top espresso maker in action watch the video below.

Delonghi GM600 Gelato Maker Review

June 16, 2010 in Italian Kitchenware by Simple Italian Cooking Blog | No comments


I have recently written a review on the Delonghi GM600 Gelato Maker which I’ve posted on my site .   It took awhile to write the review because I went into detail and let me tell you by the time I was done I was craving homemade gelato!

I won’t tell you here in this post everything I go over but here are the nuts and bolts.

1.  What is Gelato?   Understanding the difference between gelato and ice cream is important because it explains why an ice cream machine is NOT the same as a gelato machine.

2.  How does it Work?   I explain the basic principle of the machine and how it operates along with the components.   It is much easier than an ice cream maker.

3.  What are the key features?  I go over what makes this gelato maker unique and why it therefore creates the closest thing to eating gelato in the streets of Italy.

4.  Where to buy?   As is typical in my reviews, I find that Amazon has always offered the best prices for products.   One advantage of Amazon is that customers often write in and comment on their experiences.  You can get some valuable tips and tricks from fellow users.

Unfortunately, I do not offer any recipes, however you can get recipe books at Amazon which are written for making gelato.

Read my full Delonghi Gelato Maker review here!

www.simpleitaliancooking.com

Italian Marble Coasters – Use for Decor or as a Gift

May 26, 2010 in Italian Kitchenware, italian decor by Simple Italian Cooking Blog | 2 comments

Italian Marble Coasters

Italians love marble.  Just take a stroll through the Italian embassy or really any Italian building for the matter.

However, not everyone can have Italian marble floors, but we can still appreciate the feel of Italian marble throughout our homes.

One example is the use of decorative coasters which are made of Italian marble.  These beautiful coaster sets have different designs from Michelangelo, to chickens, to golfing or antique maps as shown.

Italian marble tiles are generally 4×4, hand printed and made to look like antiques.  They typically come in a set of 4 and make an impressive gift for friends or family, and especially for your boss.

The benefit of marble is the quality.  It is a durable material and is expected to last for a lifetime.  The bottoms of the coasters are typically coated in cork, which helps it protect against any damage to your furniture.

To add to the gift, include some fresh espresso, or even a set of espresso cups, a very suitable match. Where to buy these?  Visit Amazon and type in Italian marble coasters or click here – I’m sure you’ll find a design you will like!

Liz
www.simpleitaliancooking.com

Preparing for Italian Summer Recipes

April 22, 2010 in pasta bowls by Simple Italian Cooking Blog | No comments

Spring has barely started and I’m already thinking up recipes I can’t prepare until a few months down the road.   As you may know, on my site www.simpleitaliancooking.com I showcase a special ingredient each month which is then used in some fashion in each recipe of the week.

I suppose it’s all the talk about gardening and getting the soil ready and heading off to the store to buy my plants or seeds.  Those tomatoes just can’t seem ‘t grow any faster in my mind and I haven’t even bought my plants yet.

Images of fresh tomato and mozzarella salad, along with some fresh pasta and garlic bread – sitting out at the porch table enjoying the breeze.   It is always during the summer time that inspiration hits to make the dinner presentation more an event.   Whether it means putting music on while eating, or taking the time to enjoy the evenings or even just making the presentation better with themed dinnerware, like using hand painted pasta bowls from Italy – I just can’t wait.

Fresh fruits and vegetables which are in season, are not only more tasty but bring a happiness that well.. let’s face it… canned peaches just can’t compete.

Cutting some fresh flowers, and serving strawberries for dessert with some whipped cream – what can beat that really?

I promise if you fall in the same boat I’m in, I’ll do my best to help us enjoy the beauty of Spring while waiting for summer.  I’ll keep posting easy but amazing Italian recipes which will keep us content and satisfied.  Before you know it, summer will be at our doorsteps.

Liz

Simple Italian Recipes
www.simpleitaliancooking.com

Italian Stainless Steel Stovetop Espresso Maker – A Must Have

April 2, 2010 in Italian Kitchenware, stainless steel stovetop espresso makers by Simple Italian Cooking Blog | No comments

With Spring upon us and the summer months approaching, it is about time to start thinking of our next “vacation” plans.  This means staying with my wonderful in-laws.  This also means a change of routine and schedule.  Some of which are rather important – like having our daily lattes or shots of espresso, I’m so used to.

The solution?   We bring our espresso maker – that is our stovetop one.  These are one of the greatest gifts the Italians could have given us.  I first learned of them while visiting with relatives in Italy. I’ve been hooked ever since (and saved a ton of money by making my own espressos and lattes rather than buying them at a coffee shop.)

Benefits of Stainless Steel

I can sum it up in a few words:

  1. Durability:  Made from 18/10 stainless steel.
  2. Longer Lasting: Unlike aluminum, these pots will not pit or corrode.
  3. Dishwasher Safe: These are dishwasher safe which makes them all the more convenient.   We used to use the aluminum makers, but it was more a pain to wash and clean because harsh dishwasher soap or dish soap will aid in the pitting and corrosion.  With stainless steel this is not an issue.  I love to throw my stainless steel into the dishwasher and not worry about it.

Bialetti Espresso Makers

Here are 3 facts about the Bialetti brand:

  1. They are made in Italy.   I love that!  Bialetti was first started in 1919 by a man named Alfonso Bialetti. Since then they have grown and become who they are today – a trusted brand.
  2. They offer various sizes and  styles to choose from.  For example, they offer 4, 6, and 10 cup sizes.  Some of their styles are modern looking, some are elegant and some are just classic styles.  If you live alone or with another person I recommend the 4 cup size.   If you find yourself entertaining quite often for family or friends, you might consider a 6 or 10 cup version which allows for making a higher quantity of servings at a time.
  3. They have handles and knobs which are in insulated black rubber to keep it cool to the touch.  This is a very practical feature.

Compatible on Which Stovetops

You can use these on glass stove tops, gas, or electric.  I like gas best because you have better control over the temperature and the size of the flame.  With glass or electric, I position the maker away from the center towards the edge.  Either way is doable and there really is no difference in taste.

How Much in a Serving:

1 Cup is equivalent to 2 ounces.  So for those who need multiple shots, start with at least a 4 cup size.

Italian espresso makers are convenient and economically a good choice.   No one wants a corroded coffee maker, and aluminum over time will do just that.  This is one product that we can say is worth the few extra dollars.  You will save in the long run considering the durability and longer lasting benefits of stainless steel products.

You can see the various Bialetti styles at Amazon,  including the Bialetti 06887 Class Stovetop Espresso Maker 4 Cup shown in this post.  Enjoy and let us know how much you love your homemade espressos!

Espresso is not Coffee, but it is the Italian’s Coffee

March 24, 2010 in Italian Kitchenware, stainless steel stovetop espresso makers by Simple Italian Cooking Blog | 8 comments

Coffee did not originate in Italy, nor did espresso which is simply coffee beans roasted for longer periods of time.   Espresso is a very very dark roast.  It is not known when coffee beans were officially discovered, however it was Ethiopia which started the actual practice of cultivation.

Italian Espresso

Coffee beans did not even reach Italy until the 17th century when the coffee craze hit Europe.  Along the way different variations to how coffee was made and served came into existence.  Now there are more terms for coffee drinks than one can imagine.

When you go into a coffee shop do you stare blankly at the menu then decide to just order what you always do in the attempt to look like you are a seasoned confident coffee drinker?  Or on the other hand do you pick something different each time in order to expand your repertoire of coffee knowledge?

For myself I’m the former – staring blankly deciding to just order what I know I already like – a tall latte plain.

So to help those who do not hold a degree in coffee definitions, here is a quick list.

Caffe Latte:  1 to 3 ratio of espresso to milk topped with a little foam.

Cappuccino:  1 to 1 ratio of espresso, milk and froth.  Example:  2 oz espresso, 2 oz milk, 2 oz froth.

Espresso:  1 shot espresso.  No milk.  No froth.  If you add a little froth, it becomes a Cafe Macciato. In Italy they use stove top espresso makers to make their own espresso right at home.  In my time visiting there,it was customary that nearly every home we went into, espresso was offered.  I remember we were in such a hurry one time, but the host insisted we have a shot.  Naturally we did.  I couldn’t understand what they were saying, but I can tell you that it was obviously an insult if we didn’t have some!

Caffe Mocha:  The same as a latte, but with a shot of chocolate syrup mixed in.

I don’t know for sure which of these drinks originated in Italy, but it is believed the first coffee house was opened in Venice.  Today, it is hard to find an Italian in Italy that drinks coffee the way we do here in America – brewed with water.   No, no, no – that would be enough to be… well… looked down upon for sure.   Italians like their espresso, not coffee!

Liz
Italian Stovetop Espresso Makers

« Older entries