While studying in Italy, I learned about the work of the Ark of Taste (An organization based in Italy, which preserves traditional recipes implicitly connected to their area of origin) I decided to follow the path of anthropological research and discover the gastronomic treasures of my country through it. My goal is to document traditional recipes, how they were originally carried out step by step, their variations and the specific equipment used in their preparation. Starting from phone calls to relatives and them calling their close friends, I started my adventure, going around villages with my recorder, interviewing people and then started the documentation of my personal research. I had and still have the luck to participate in the execution of some of these recipes with people that still have the gusto and enthusiasm to make them at their homes.

I had no idea whatsoever how to approach the faces I had in front of me and interviewing them as this was something new to me. I start explaining what I do and what I want to learn and slowly the storytelling unfolds. Hesitantly at first but then as time passes by, they get more excited and talk about personal experiences. It’s obvious that the past was difficult, keeping in mind the poor state of the country and its history but they learned to appreciate what they had. Even though they had a tough time providing for their families, they get nostalgic and their face conveys happiness while remembering the past. Apart from the information on food that I get out of these conversations, the most important part for me is this. Their emotions and how they communicate them with me. Happiness, excitement, nostalgia and even a dash of sadness. I hope I can pass these feelings on to you through this blog.