I think sometimes we get too tied to what’s “authentic.” In my part of the country, you hear it most frequently with Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. Take tacos, for example. We have several taquerias with wonderful meats like asada, barbicoa and lengua, topped simply with onions and cilantro. The best is actually a permanently stationed food truck selling tacos for $1.25. Then we have other places taking a more creative approach to tacos. Are they authentic? No, but they taste wonderful. Beyond simple sustenance, isn’t that really what food is all about?

Traditional Italian food is actually very healthy. It seems American capitalism with the focus on profits creates bastardized versions of cuisines, often not healthy due to heavy processed food usage. It provides cheaper cost, while producing addictive foods.

For example, traditional sicilian spaghetti uses anchovies which are high in omega 3 fats. The sauce is typical olive oil also high in monounsaturated fats. Both very good for the heart.

The typical American spaghetti in resturants uses processed beef meatballs and processed tomato sauce, and processed vegetable oil.

This is very high in omega 6 fatty acids, along with other processed ingredients causing inflammation, and other issues which will eventually lead to heart disease.

Thanks, Nick for stopping by! I absolutely agree 🙂 Have a great time in Italy! Yes, please let me know everything about the food.

I think that’s a very natural process – of course the rules are there to protect the integrity of the cuisine and to defend against those who butcher it (such as those ‘disgraces’ that caused you to start your blog). But for those with a solid foundation and understanding of and respect for the rules, a world of experimentation opens up.

Un abbraccio Paolo!! Headed to Italy this summer (Turin, Lecce, Matera, and Parco del Gargano) – I’ll let you know how the food is!