Ask Chef Walter: Humble lentils, powerful health – Chef Walter Potenza

by Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer Humble lentils, powerful health. Friends: ACW reader Nicole F. from Corydon, Indiana, inquired about red and yellow lentils. Here we go, Nicole. I am including a good recipe to try. Hopefully, it will help! Lentils are a staple in our pantries. They are versatile, nutritional, and can offer a base…

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Federal Hill Identity Crisis – Chef Walter Potenza

by Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer The glorious second-oldest Italian immigration colony in North America struggles to reaffirm its dominance in the gastronomic palette of the state and nationally.  Friends: In the mid-1980s, as I prepared to open my first restaurant in East Greenwich, Rhode Island, a seasoned Jewish rabbi imparted wisdom that has stayed…

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Ask Chef Walter: Paella Perfecta, with Chef Walter Potenza

paella

Paella Perfecta.  History, styles and the common mistakes to avoid, including some kitchen secrets and a recipe from Spain. Friends: Paella- the very sound of the word evokes a vision of the scorching coasts of Spain, the cacophony of street markets, and the aroma wafting of that savory, saffron-scented steam. This iconic creation from Valencia is perhaps…

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Ask Chef Walter: It’s Hanukkah! Latkes and more – Walter Potenza

A table with candles and toys on it

It’s all about fried food for Hanukkah. But it doesn’t have to be just latkes Friends: The celebration of Chanukah represents a special moment for the Jewish community. It encompasses the story of a miracle and the profound meaning of spiritual resilience. Although it is a holiday of Jewish origin, Chanukah is part of the…

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Ask Chef Walter: Baccalà Cooking Lesson – Chef Walter Potenza

A man holding two large fish in his hands.

by Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer Photo: Roma’s on Federal Hill, Providence Manager Oliver holding salted baccala’ in the store, courtesy Walter Potenza Friends: As we approach the solemn holidays, seafood symbolizes lean and devoted cuisines, especially in the Christian world. Many have asked about the salted cod, and here’s a brief guideline on how…

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Ask Chef Walter: Fresh Octopus, a culinary journey from sea to table – Walter Potenza

A plate of food with octopus and lemon on it.

by Executive Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer Friends: we are beginning the seafood celebration until Christmas Day, and octopus takes the center of the stage because it intimidated anyone in the kitchen. Octopus, a fascinating creature of the deep, is a soft-bodied mollusk belonging to the class Cephalopoda, which also includes squids and cuttlefish. With…

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Ask Chef Walter: Thanksgiving turkey common mistakes – Walter Potenza

A table filled with lots of food and candles.

by Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer Properly thawing, brining, and seasoning your turkey, using a meat thermometer, and avoiding overcooking are essential to creating a memorable Thanksgiving feast. Friends: Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and togetherness, and the centerpiece of this beloved holiday is often the Thanksgiving turkey. Preparing a delicious and perfectly cooked turkey…

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Ask Chef Walter: Pumpkin, what to do! – Walter Potenza

pumpkin

by Executive Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer PUMPKIN WHAT TO DO! Other than the fun-cutting Halloween faces, there are a few suggestions that make sense. Pumpkin cheesecake Italian style recipe included. Friends: Q: Allison C. from Lincoln Wood, Illinois, asked about pumpkins. Here we go, Allison! Fall is the perfect time to get creative with…

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