Tuscan cuisine is loved and  appreciated all over the world. Cooking and baking in Tuscany is still a huge part of everyday life, I’m pleased to report. Having lived in a block of 12 apartments, I know that food, preparation and cooking continues to be a priority, in particular with the older generation.

I’ve seen women return early in the morning from the local shops or the weekly market laden with fresh produce. I’ve seen them return from their campo (field) or orto (kitchen garden) with bags stuffed full of fruit and vegetables — key to the preparation of some Tuscan cuisine delicacy — they’ve been tending to over the months.