Cultural discovery through Risotto

Risotto opened a door into a cuisine I'd previously known almost nothing about. The bright and tomatoey flavours are unlike anything in my usual rotation and I mean that positively. ingredient simplicity and quality are the guiding principles. Understanding that context made the dish taste different — richer with meaning.

I learned that San Marzano tomatoes is central to this cuisine's character, not just a seasoning. The a family trattoria in Rome setting was authentic and helpful for understanding what I was eating. Chianti completed the picture. A genuinely educational meal.