Tucked away in a backstreet of London’s edgy Soho district, Polpo is one of the hottest restaurants in town. Critics and food aficionados have been flocking to this understated bàcaro where Russell Norman serves up dishes from the back streets of Venice. A far cry from the tourist-trap eateries of the famous floating city, this kind of cooking is unfussy, innovative and exuberantly delicious.
The engaging collection of recipes in POLPO spans a range of classic and inventive dishes that capture the true essence of Venetian cuisine. From the finger-licking simplicity of zucchini shoestring fries to the sophisticated flavours of scallops with lemon and peppermint, the variety is delectable and inviting. Each page reveals a new gastronomic delight. Consider the richness of butternut risotto or the rustic charm of rabbit cacciatore; each recipe is a testament to the vibrant culinary culture of Venice.
The 140 recipes in the book include:
Caprese stacks
Zucchini shoestring fries
Asparagus with Parmesan and anchovy butter
Butternut risotto
Arancini
Rabbit cacciatore
Warm duck salad with wet walnuts and beets
Crispy baby pizzas with prosciutto and rocket
Scallops with lemon and peppermint
Mackerel tartare
Linguine with clams
Whole sea bream
Warm octopus salad
Soft-shell crab in Parmesan batter with fennel salad
Walnut and honey semifreddo
Tiramisù
Fizzy bellinis
Glasses of bright orange spritz
Every dish is thoughtfully considered, reflecting Russell Norman’s passion for rustic Venetian cooking. The recipes are approachable yet sophisticated, making them suitable both for casual meals and special occasions.
Adding an extra layer of authenticity, the luminescent photography by Jenny Zarins captures the unfrequented corners, the bustling bàcari, and the sublime waterways of Venice. Each photograph provides a visual feast that complements the mouth-watering recipes, making POLPO a dazzling tribute to Italy’s greatest hidden cuisine. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a gastronome looking to explore new culinary territories, this book offers a tantalising journey through the heart and soul of Venice’s vibrant food scene.
POLPO: A Venetian Cookbook (Of Sorts) was deservedly crowned Waterstones Book of the Year in 2012, and it remains an indispensable gem for anyone passionate about Italian cooking. It is not just a cookbook; it’s a love letter to the flavours, textures, and traditions of Venice.
