From the book “Dolci Regali”: Estonian Kringel / Dal libro “Dolci Regali”: Estonian Kringel

My passion for MTChallenge’s monthly appointment is well known to all of you. Even macrobiotic diet hasn’t stopped me, even thought I had to drop the last challenge. There is no way to get me out of the most challenging and fun food bloggers’ challenge in the web. I just love that feeling of anticipation waiting for the announcement of the winning recipe and the following days, waiting to know what will be the next challenge. I learned so much, certainly not enough, and enjoy it very much. Needless to say when the book “Dolci Regali” came out I didn’t waste a minute and bought several copies of the book, one for me and the other for friends and family members. Anyone obsessed with home baking should get a copy. Each page is full of wonder, inspiration and valuable information.

October’s Panissimo: Farina bona, potatoes and walnuts yeasted bread rolls / Panissimo di Ottobre: Panini di farina bona, patate e noci

When reading this month’s theme for Panissimo challenge, ancient/special flours, there was no doubt, farina bona would be one of the ingredients I would use. Farina bona is a very special cornflour, finely ground and toasted, with a earthy deep perfume reminiscent of roasted hazelnuts, butterscotch and freshly popped corn. Used for centuries in Val Osernone, in the italian part of Switzerland, this flour went gradually lost until recent times when, probably following the latest trends in reviving regional/traditional ingredients and recipes, it has had a strong comeback on our tables.

Brioche obsession and Chocolate Babka / L’ossessione per la brioche e la Babka al cioccolato

Lately brioche has been the queen of my kitchen. It all started with italian facebook baking groups raving about this russian flower and the endless posting of pictures, videos and blog posts. I’m not usually inclined to follow trends, but admit the shape was so gorgeous I couldn’t help myself. And having friends around for dinner is always a great excuse, isn’t it?