Just Cook Italian

This week I have been mostly eating Italian...

I have had some great, productive meetings with Bruno & Tony, the balsamic vinegar guys, and, when the web shop is ready, I am pleased to say I will be able to supply their Tradizionale balsamic and a few condimentos from their range. I have to say, it has been extremely enjoyable to taste and compare different vinegars and learn all about the centuries old production method. I feel like I am becoming a bit of an expert and now have a goal of visiting a proper acetaia for myself to learn more.

I have also met with Simon & Franco, the other Italians I was introduced to. They are wholesalers who stock a huge range of authentic Italian products that they supply to delis and restaurants in and around London. It's great stuff but an awful lot of it is in catering sizes that are way too big for the home cook. Happily, they also have a new range of products that are available in smaller quantities and look really delicious.

I have ordered up a whole load of samples that my testing & tasting team (hungry friends & family) will be getting our teeth into over the next few days. If everything is up to standard then I'll try and do a deal to get their products in the shop as well.

Feeling well fed and half Italian - Ciao!