Bri DiMattina is a second-generation Italian-Kiwi, a trained chef and home gardener, and inspired by the concept of ‘Nostrana’, which means homegrown, with the intent of sharing food with others, she has created this beautiful recipe book.
Nostrana is organised seasonally, and it includes growing guides for the hero ingredients, such as asparagus, herbs, passionfruit, cucumbers, corn, capsicums, apples and peaches.
There are so many delicious recipes to choose from, but here are just a few mouth-watering gems from each of the seasons:
SPRING: All the Greens Ricotta Tart, Fresh Butter-dipped Radishes, and Herb Fritto Miso.
SUMMER: Passionfruit Yoghurt Cake, Mediterranean Tray Bake, and Chilli Summer Cucumber.
AUTUMN: Grilled Eggplant in Oil, Polenta and Corn Fritters, and Grilled Capsicum and Tomato Tart.
WINTER: Lemon Coconut Loaf, Spice Apple Cake and Limoncello.
Nostrana boosts gorgeous photography, and the recipes are straightforward and easy to follow. This is a must-have for anyone growing their own produce, as there are so many great recipes to use when a particular food is in abundance. But even for those not growing produce, this book is a gem, and all with a kiwi-Italian flavour!
Reviewer: Iain McKenzie
HarperCollins