The Mafia Cookbook: Revised and Expanded

This book is simply amazing. I was just developing a taste for cooking when this book was purchased for me, and I originally thought it was just supposed to be funny - which it is, certainly. Each recipe is followed or preceded by an interesting story that relates, somehow, to the delicious dish. I realized, though, that the dishes were good enough that even a novice like me could make delicious, Italian-American meals.While the recipes are not authentically Italian and may call for some non-traditional but readily-available ingredients, do not let this turn you off from the book. The recipes all turn out exactly as described, and yes - they are almost all very fattening and very, very tasty. Even the side dish recommendations are good.Not all the dishes are specifically Italian - cheesecake, Chicken Cordon Bleu, and Lobster Newburg are all particularly good, non-traditional recipes. The instructions are clear and easy to follow for every item, and there are enough recipes in here to last quite some time. I highly recommend this book; I have seen many cookbooks since I was first introduced to cooking, and this is still one of my favorites.

Don't mistake this for a novelty item. The recipes in this book are 100% legit. I've worked from a lot of cookbooks, and this one is my favorite. The scampi and the stuffed shells alone are easily worth the price of the book. And if you like Iannuzzi's stories, you might want to check out his biography, as well. It's an entertaining read.Who'd have thought the mob ate like this?? Check this one out; you won't be disappointed.

For anyone who wants to cook what real Italians eat this book is an essential. The stories add color and depth to the culinary experience and Mr. Iannuzzi's use of shortcuts produce unexpected excellent results. I use it so frequently, I have pretty much memorized it.

This book was written from the heart,and as every Italian knows, the way to the heart is through the stomach. Mr.Ianuzzi combination of true-life exploits and culinary mastery produce a cultural expose' that helps define a way of life that few of us will ever experience. WHAT-EVER ! The "CAPONARA" is to die for and the Marinara Sauce should be illegal! In other words, this book is a must for every kitchen! A compliment cookbook to Joe Dogg"s is Dom Deluiese's: "Eat this , it'll make you feel better"