Making Sicilian Sweet and Sour Pumpkin
Autumn is a wonderful time to visit Sicily. Harvest is in full swing which means that you can taste the first plump grapes and olive oils of the season, plus wholesome chestnuts and mushrooms, bursting pomegranates, juicy mandarins and apples among many other autumnal delights. Sicily is where Europe ends and Africa begins. It began its history as part of Ancient Greece and soon became part of the Roman Empire. Thereafter the island was invaded by the Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, French, Spanish and Bourbons before unifying with Italy. Each conquest left its mark on the island by introducing a variety of fresh produce. The island itself is very fertile thanks to the volcanic soil from Mount Etna which creates unique delicious fruit and vegetables. In autumn you can enjoy hearty dishes in Sicily, and one of the most popular ingredients you will find is Zucca (pumpkin). You will see this vegetable with its round ribbed skin and deep orange colour, being sold at markets or at ...