This is an ancient Roman recipe with multiple versions and similar to a Neapolitan pastierra, that have weathered the passing of time. Usually popular around Easter time but delicious especially in warm months. And a very romantic “dinner for two” anytime enjoyed with a nice glass of wine.

8 oz Spaghetti
½ C. Sugar
2 Eggs – lightly beaten
Pinch of Nutmeg
Salt – to taste
½ C. Ricotta – whole milk, drained 
2/3 C. Walnuts – coarsely chopped
Cinnamon Powder – to taste
3 Tbs. Rum, Sweet Sherry, or Vin Santo

Preheat oven to 325 Degrees 
Butter and Flour a cake pan or glass deep dish pie pan

This recipe has ancient origins and much like a pastierra popular in Naples.  This recipe, however, seems to be the one most popular in Rome, this day.

In a large pot of lightly salted boiling water, cook spaghetti only until al dente as it will cook a little more while in the oven.

Meanwhile, in a bowl large enough to hold and mix the spaghetti, add the ricotta and stir in the sugar with a pinch of salt. Stir until all well combined. Add the coarsely chopped waluts, enough of the liquid flavorings to suit your taste, a pinch of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg.

Add the drained spaghetti into the ricotta mixture, mix very well to incorporate all and then carefully pour into a buttered and floured cake pan or glass deep-dish pie pan. Smooth the top but do not mash down.

Bake in preheated oven for about 12-16 minutes.

NOTE: this also makes a great brunch dish.

BUON MANGIATA!

BOCCA della VERITA

Mouth of Truth

The Mouth of truth is an ancient Roman marble sculpture in Rome said to be created in 1512 by Lucas van Leyden and is located against the left wall of the portico of the Santa maria in Comedin Church, although some stories relate it to going back to the 1400’s. It is linked to a curious and somewhat fascinating medieval tale according to which the mouth could bite the hand of liars. The brave are encouraged to put their hand into the mouth and answer a question given by a friend or lover. Should your answer be untruthfull your hand would be bitten. In the movie Roman Holiday, Audrey Hepburn takes the challenge!

Charlie and I were there in 2014, challenged each other with a question and we still have our hands. Fortunately for him!