Finding My Passion for Food in the Heart of Cilento
When I think back to my childhood in Cilento, the memories are more than just of delicious food and sunny days. They are filled with warmth, laughter, and an unbreakable connection to the land, the people, and the culture that surrounds it. Cilento, a region in the southern part of Italy’s Campania, is a place of striking contrasts—mountains that meet the sea, lush forests, and rolling hills that produce some of the finest ingredients in the country. It was here, in a small village with cobbled streets and close-knit community, that my passion for food was nurtured and grew into something that would define my life.
Cilento: The Land of Plenty
Cilento, located between the mountains of the Parco Nazionale del Cilento and the Tyrrhenian Sea, is a region known for its natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and exceptional cuisine. The area has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, not just for its breathtaking vistas but also for its deep-rooted traditions in agriculture and food. Growing up just 15 minutes away from both the mountains and the coast, I had access to an incredible variety of fresh ingredients that are the heart and soul of Cilentan cuisine.
In my village, life was centred around relationships with the land and the people who grew, made, and sold the food. Food was never just about sustenance—it was about connection. When I needed to pick up bread or fresh produce, I would head into the village, often making the rounds from Roberto’s vegetable stall to Marco’s bakery. I knew them all by name, and they knew me too. Shopping for food was always a social event, where I’d bump into neighbours and friends, share a quick chat, or stop for a coffee. Food wasn’t just an exchange of goods—it was an opportunity to connect with the community. It was about the people behind the food as much as it was about the food itself.
The Influence of Family and Tradition
The roots of my love for food were planted in my family’s strong ties to the land. My uncle, Rocco, kept hens, and I would often accompany him to collect the eggs—there was something so special about knowing where your food came from and being part of its journey from farm to table. My nonna, with her boundless wisdom and affection, raised goats on her land, and we would help her milk them to make homemade cheese.
At home, we had our own vineyards, and my family made wine just as they had for generations. I remember the smell of the grape harvest and the joy of helping my father with the pressing. It was a simple, grounding experience, yet it made me feel a deep connection to the earth and its cycles. Foraging with my grandparents was another part of my upbringing, learning about wild herbs, seasonal fruits, and vegetables that flourished on the land. This love for the produce of Cilento is something I carry with me to this day, and my family continues to send me homemade cheese and preserved olives—gifts that keep me connected to my roots.
Cilento’s Culinary Treasures
The food of Cilento is nothing short of extraordinary, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have grown up surrounded by such richness. The region boasts a range of local specialties that are simple yet full of flavour. One of the most iconic products is Caciotta, a type of goats’ cheese that is creamy and full of character. Then, there’s the Mozzarella cu Murtedda, a unique mozzarella layered with fragrant myrtle herbs, which adds an aromatic depth to the creamy cheese. The olive oil from Cilento is renowned for its quality, and it’s often used generously to dress a variety of dishes, enhancing their natural flavours. And let’s not forget the region’s white figs, which are a seasonal delicacy enjoyed fresh or preserved.
These ingredients have not only shaped my palate but also formed the foundation of my cooking philosophy. Growing up, every meal was an opportunity to celebrate what the land had to offer, whether it was a hearty plate of pasta with fresh tomatoes, or a simple salad drizzled with local olive oil. This respect for fresh, local ingredients is something I hold dear and something I bring into all my cooking today.
The Journey to ‘In Cucina Con Sofia’
My passion for food and connection with the land eventually led me to start In Cucina Con Sofia in 2020. During the lockdown, when travel restrictions kept tourists from exploring the world, I decided to bring a taste of Cilento into their homes. I began sharing recipe cards online, aimed at giving people the opportunity to cook authentic Italian dishes from the comfort of their kitchens. What started as a simple idea quickly grew as requests for online tutorials came pouring in—from people in countries as far as Japan and Brazil.
As the world slowly started to open up, I began offering one-on-one tutorials, teaching pasta-making, risotto, gelato, and more. My classes brought people together, even from opposite corners of the globe, all eager to learn the art of Italian cooking.
MasterChef and the Growth of My Business
In 2021, I applied for and competed in MasterChef UK, a leap that gave me the opportunity to refine my skills further and share my passion with an even wider audience. From there, my business expanded to include in-person cookery classes, private dining experiences, supper clubs, and recipe development. I also began collaborating on content creation, working with brands to develop authentic Italian recipes that celebrated the produce and traditions of my homeland.
Through the years, I’ve had the honour of being a judge on food panels, working as a food stylist on both my own projects and for numerous well-known brands, and contributing articles to several renowned food magazines. Each of these experiences has only deepened my passion for food and the joy of sharing it with others. Today, my work spans everything from intimate private dining events to international well-being retreats. I am grateful to have built a business that not only reflects my love for food but also honours the rich traditions of Cilento.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Food and Cooking
Food is about much more than just the ingredients—it’s about the stories, the relationships, and the memories that come with it. Every meal tells a story, whether it’s the recipe handed down through generations or the laughter shared around the table. As I continue to grow my business, I hold these values close to my heart. I’m committed to offering cooking experiences that celebrate the connections we make through food, and to teaching others the joy of sharing meals with the people they love.
Cilento will always be a part of me—its landscapes, its people, and most importantly, its food. Every dish I cook is a tribute to my upbringing, to the simple yet profound beauty of the land I come from. And I look forward to continuing to share that love with you all, whether in my cookery classes, through my supper clubs, or in the recipes I share with the world.
Buon appetito e a presto!