It was a steamy Saturday evening in Ischia. To be more
precise -Ristorante Indaco, Michelin starred restaurant in the heart of the 5
star Luxury hotel Hotel Regina Isabella located in Lacco Ameno.
Chef Pasquale Palamaro served me a soup as part of his
tasting menu that evening. A soup!
A soup, which for the chef, was inspired by a dish that his
mother often prepared for him, his 2 brothers and 1 sister when he was a
child. His mom would take advantage of
any leftover mozzarella or fior di latte and prepare a meal by adding tomatoes
and basil.
Palamaro took this memory a step further – he gave it a gourmet
touch. Fresh basil leaves were placed in
a ceramic dish. Then ,table side,, our
server added tepid water- not for show, but to release the spectacular summer
aromas that only a basilica napoletano can give.
Afterwards, a simple tomato soup with mozzarella, shrimp
joined us at the table for an experience rich in flavors, aroma, and memories.
As I took my last spoonful, I couldn’t help but think about
a memory from my childhood. A tomato
soup that my mom served with grilled cheese sandwiches and crackers.
Grazie, chef!…
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