Day 99: Italian Grill by Mario Batali

Let me start by saying I am aware of the many sexual misconduct allegations that Mario Batali has faced. In 2022, Batali was acquitted of one case in Boston but the judge also said his conduct was “not befitting of a public person in his stature.” In other words, Batali had some serious problems with his behavior and these problems do affect how I think of him now.

In 2008, I bought a copy of this book at Super Target in Grand Forks, North Dakota and a charcoal grill at Ace Hardware. The two kept me busy in the afternoons for weeks. I learned and perfected my techniques for making pizza, roasted red peppers, learned how to make my own ricotta cheese, and, generally, enjoyed planning and making meals for my family. I continue to pull this book off the shelf on a regular basis.

QsOTD: Do you enjoy grilling? Do you have a favorite cookbook or food book.

Purchased in 2008. Hardcover. 246 pgs.