‘AUTHENTIC VOLPI’ recipe contest has ended with success!

We are all very happy and excited at Volpi Foods because the customer response to our recipe contest was more than we could have ever expected.  Entries were received from all corners of the United States, with entries received from 18 different states.  In addition to Italian cooking recipes, customers shared personal stories and traditions highlighting the origins of the recipes which has made this event even more special to us.

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of visiting St. Louis and visiting with the Volpi family.  On Saturday morning, we had a TV interview on FOX 2 News. Lorenza Pasetti and I had the chance to talk about the new ‘Authentic Volpi” Italian cookbook and show off a few of the recipes.  Authentic Volpi is a pocket almanac that captures Italian family recipes and traditions in a seasonal format.  “The history of Volpi Foods is rich with Italy, overflowing with its culture, heritage and flavors.  The book shows how Old World traditions merge with today’s delicious foods.”

This weekend we also participated in the local Holiday 2009 event sponsored by the St. Louis Public Library.  In addition to arts and crafts for children, a handful of local businesses shared their stories, passions, and crafts with those in attendance.  The Volpi family gave out samples of their main stream Italian meat, Rotola cheeses and the ‘new’ artisan brand Un Mondo.  Visitors were able to discuss the new Authentic Volpi book with us and most left with a signed copy to add to personal cookbook collections.

The weekend ended with us reviewing all the authentic Italian recipes submitted by the fans of Volpi, leaving us with the daunting task of choosing a winner.  It certainly wasn’t easy, in fact we’ve narrowed it down to 15 entries and are currently back in the kitchen cooking ALL of these one more time.  The kitchen is a buzz of activity and the pile of pans is growing in the sink.  We’re getting through 4 to 5 recipes each day and look forward to crowning the winner by the weeks end.  If everyone could hang in there a couple more days, fingers crossed for those of you who entered the contest.  Winners will be announced Friday, December 11, 2009.

Time for me to get back in the kitchen, there is plenty of great food that is waiting to be created…….

Grazie mille,

Chef Michael