Ask Chef Walter: A Nutty Journey to Gluttony – Walter Potenza

pecan pie

by Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer The epic tale of Southern Pecan pie. Morris K. from Alkabo, North Dakota, inquired about the pecan pie. Here’s some to read, Morris: Enjoy it! Oh, have you tried the classic Southern Pecan Pie yet? Let me tell you, it’s a genuine treat for your taste buds—like dancing under…

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Ask Chef Walter: The History of Tiramisu and Recipe – Walter Potenza

Historic white stone bridge and gate over calm river under blue sky.

by Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer Friends: Wandering through the charming cobblestone streets of Treviso, Italy, you can’t help but be enveloped by the delightful scents of history and freshly brewed espresso. Along the way, you might stumble upon the show’s star: tiramisu! This fantastic dessert is a treat for your palate and a feast…

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Ask Chef Walter: Is it scrod or is it cod – Walter Potenza

Scrod with Chef Walter Potenza, Oct. 12, 2025

by Executive Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer Friends: Imagine walking into a classic, old-school Rhode Island seafood house. The air is salty, the floors are worn wood, and the menu has terms that sound like they come from another time. Next to the clam chowder, you’ll likely see the word “scrod.” And if you’re not…

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Ask Chef Walter: The Tipping Fever – Walter Potenza

RINewsToday - Ask Chef Walter with Chef Walter Potenza - Tipping - Oct. 5, 2025

by Executive Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer How America’s gratuity culture spiraled out of control. It seems like everyone is on the grab and go without any particular logical explanation. Friends: In the past, tipping in America was a simple way to say thank you. Now, it feels like a constant demand wherever you go.…

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Ask Chef Walter: The Classic Frittata – Walter Potenza

by Executive Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer Friends: The story of the frittata is not found in the grand cookbooks of royalty but in the humble, sunbaked kitchens of rural Italy, a testament to the beautiful ingenuity of cucina povera—the art of making do. It’s very name, from the verb friggere, meaning “to fry,” whispers…

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Ask Chef Walter: Cooking Pasta Tutorial – Walter Potenza

pasta

by Executive Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer COOKING PASTA 101 – Some basic pasta cooking refreshments for your ultimate success. Image:  Mezzi Rigati Pasta with shell fish and crustaceans broth, above Friends: Today, we’re sharing some straightforward tips for preparing delicious pasta. Whether it’s salting the water properly or picking the proper pasta shape, these…

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Ask Chef Walter: Sfogliatella, by the Glorious Nun’s Hands – Walter Potenza

Two croissants and cups of coffee on a marble table.

by Executive Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer Friends: The sfogliatella masterpiece created by Sister Clotilde, continues to captivate palates and charm gluttons after 400 or so years. Many of our readers asked about this traditional sweet from Naples, and here you have it! The Sfogliatella is an iconic pastry that has gained worldwide recognition and…

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Ask Chef Walter: Seco de Cabrito Lambayeque – Chef Walter Potenza

A pope waving from a balcony during daylight.

by Executive Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer Photo: Vatican News, provided by Chef Potenza POPE LEO XIV CULINARY PASSIONS – “In the simplicity of a meal,” he recently said in an audience, “there is the miracle of the encounter between peoples and cultures.” Friends: Between Peruvian flavors and a commitment to solidarity, Pope Leo XIV,…

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Ask Chef Walter: Lentil Bolognese – Walter Potenza

Lentil Bolognese

by Executive Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer Enter Lentil Bolognese, a vibrant, plant-based version that retains all the soul of the original while offering a fresh, nutritious perspective Friend: Bolognese sauce has long been the crown jewel of Italian comfort food—a slow-simmered masterpiece of meat, wine, and tomatoes. But what happens when we reimagine this…

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