Tuscany
Hackballs Toscana – our casserole recipe of the month
Breaking: Quick and Delicious Mediterranean Minced Balls Recipe – archyde.com
By Archyde Staff, October 11, 2023
Are you a fan of minced meat? Then this fast and delicious recipe for Mediterranean minced balls is just the thing you need! Perfect for a quick dinner or a family gathering, these flavorful meatballs are sure to become a favorite. Today, we bring you an easy-to-follow recipe that combines the best of Mediterranean flavors in a single dish.
Ingredients
- 500 g minced meat
- Garlic (optional)
- 1 can of steeped tomatoes
- 100 g of sweet cream
- 3 tablespoons of Italian herbs
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 ball of Mozzarella
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Season the minced meat with salt, pepper, and other herbs. If you like, add some garlic for extra flavor. Form approximately 12-15 small balls from the mixture and place them in a baking dish.
For the tomato sauce, mix the steeped tomatoes with the cream, Italian herb mixture, tomato paste, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour the sauce over the meatballs and top with sliced mozzarella. Bake in a preheated oven at 175°C for about 30-40 minutes.
Serve with rice or a baguette for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not just quick and easy; it’s also packed with Mediterranean flavors that will transport you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. The combination of sweet cream and tomato sauce creates a rich, savory base that complements the meatballs perfectly. Plus, the melted mozzarella adds a gooey, cheesy touch that everyone loves.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, these Mediterranean minced balls are sure to impress. They’re also great for meal prepping, as they reheat well and can be frozen for later use.
Expert Tips for Perfect Meatballs
- Use a mix of ground beef and pork for juicier meatballs.
- Don’t overmix the meat; it can make the meatballs tough.
- For extra flavor, add chopped fresh parsley or basil to the meat mixture.
- Bake the meatballs uncovered to achieve a slightly crispy exterior.
Ready to give this delicious recipe a try? Bookmark this page and share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to check out our other recipes and cooking tips for more inspiration in the kitchen.
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Two Unforgettable Moments at the University for Foreigners of Siena
The Art of Seriousness and the Seriousness of Art
Ah, Siena, the land of fine wine, rich history, and… sculptures of dubious artistic merit? Tomorrow, Wednesday 27 November, the University for Foreigners of Siena will be hosting not one, but two events that promise to be a treat for the senses. Or, at the very least, a treat for those who enjoy being treated to a mix of high-brow art and somber social commentary.
First off, at 3 pm in the Virginia Woolf auditorium (because what’s an Italian university without a nod to a British literary icon?), we have the exhibition "Onofrio Pepe. The colors of the myth". I must admit, I’m intrigued by the use of "myth" in the title. Is Onofrio Pepe a mythic figure in the art world? Has he achieved a level of fame that transcends the mere mortal realm? Or is it just a fancy way of saying "he’s got some nice colors"? The exhibition promises six sculptures, including some that have never been seen before, and fourteen paintings that represent the artist’s latest journey. I’m not sure what kind of journey Pepe has been on, but I hope it’s not a journey into the heart of madness, because that would make for a very uncomfortable art exhibition.
The event will be introduced by a veritable who’s who of Italian academia, including Rector Tomaso Montanari, art historian Dominique-Charles Fuchs, Professor Francesco Gurrieri, and the abbot of San Miniato Father Bernardo Gianni. I’m not sure what the abbot’s role is in all this, but I’m guessing he’s there to provide some spiritual guidance… or to bless the art with a sprinkle of holy water, just in case it’s not good enough on its own.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! At 5.30 pm, the same Virginia Woolf auditorium will host an interactive event called "Questa rossa storia" (which, roughly translated, means "This red story"). Now, I’m not sure what kind of story this is going to be, but I’m hoping it’s not a retelling of "The Red Shoes" with a bunch of PhD students prancing around in ballet shoes. Although, that would be kind of amazing.
In all seriousness, "Questa rossa storia" is an event that aims to raise awareness about violence against women, and it’s part of the program "Never alone again" promoted by the Municipality of Siena. The event will feature a collective of students and PhD students sharing their own stories of violence or harassment, which will then be performed by the Gross Sleep Viola collective. I must say, I’m a bit concerned about the name of this collective – "Gross Sleep Viola" sounds like a condition you’d get from eating too much cheese before bedtime.
All joking aside, this is a very important event, and I applaud the university for taking a stand against violence against women. It’s a serious issue that requires serious attention, and I’m glad to see that Siena is taking steps to address it.
So, there you have it – two events that promise to be thought-provoking, intellectually stimulating, and possibly even entertaining. Who knows, you might even learn something. And if not, well, there’s always the wine.
University of Siena Marks two pivotal milestones in its community’s rich cultural tapestry on Wednesday, November 27, commencing at 3 pm in the esteemed Virginia Woolf auditorium, with the highly anticipated exhibition “Onofrio Pepe. The Colors of the Myth”. This captivating showcase boasts six thought-provoking sculptures – several of which are being unveiled for the very first time by the visionary artist Onofrio Pepe – and fourteen evocative paintings, collectively epitomizing the artist’s latest groundbreaking artistic endeavors.
Following the inaugural greetings delivered by the University’s Rector, the venerable Tomaso Montanari, a distinguished panel of art connoisseurs including the erudite art historian Dominique-Charles Fuchs, and the accomplished Professor Francesco Gurrieri, will offer insightful commentary, complemented by an address from the Abbot of San Miniato, Father Bernardo Gianni, promising a truly enriching intellectual experience.
At 5:30 pm, within the same prestigious Aula Magna Virginia Woolf, the University will proudly participate in the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, through a deeply moving event, “Questa rossa storia” (This Red Story), brought to life by the innovative Gross Sleep Viola collective. Born from an initiative by CUG – Unistrasi, this poignant event serves as a platform for students and PhD students to share anonymously, via an online form, either their personal or someone else’s harrowing experiences of violence, harassment, or testimonials.
Their remarkable stories, poetry, and testimonials will then be transformed and narrated on November 27th by Big Sleep Viola, in a groundbreaking confluence of music, performances, and impactful spoken words, under the able guidance of the University’s Rector, Tomaso Montanari. This impactful initiative aligns perfectly with the broader program of events titled “Never Alone Again,” a forward-thinking endeavor spearheaded by the Municipality of Siena.
Weather Whirl: Tuscany’s Forecast Takes a Surprising Turn
Tuscany Weather Update: Is Winter Coming or Just a Bit of Cold Air?
Ah, the beguiling world of meteorology! It’s like trying to catch a greased pig at a county fair. You think you’ve got it in your grasp, only to watch it slip away, covered in uncertainty… and a little mud. Welcome to the latest episode of weather predictions, Tuscany style, where snow flurries are flirting with our collective imagination and meteorologists are throwing their darts at a board of shifting scenarios!
The Current Forecast
According to our esteemed pals at the Tuscany Weather Centre, we’re in for a double feature this weekend. On Sunday the 10th and Monday the 11th of November, they predict sunny skies and mild temperatures. Yes, you heard it right! If you like your weather like you like your Italian coffee—warm and inviting—you’re in luck. But don’t break out the beach towels just yet; a gentle breeze from the north-eastern quadrants may remind you that it’s still autumn, not summer.
But hold your horses, because as we strut past Monday, things are about to get a bit frosty! Those two cold drops they spoke of? Well, let’s just say the first one from Eastern Europe is having an awkward debut, and it’s not even going to make it to the party. However, the second one—hailing from the icy reaches of Northern Europe—is poised to reshape our expectations dramatically. Instead of shimmying down to settle over Tuscany and sprinkle us with a dusting of snow, it looks set to do a posh pirouette over to the Balearics, leaving Tuscany with only a momentary chill and perhaps some scattered clouds.
How Cold Will It Get?
As we waltz into the evening of the 12th and the morning of the 13th, expect a dip in temperatures, but don’t pack your thermal underwear just yet—it appears to be a pit stop rather than a permanent chilly residence. The Tuscany Weather Centre assures us that while there will be a product of “cold drop” rushes, any significant rainfall is taking a rain-check of its own, much to the disappointment of thirsty landscapes and snow-loving romantics alike.
What’s Next for Tuscany?
So what’s on the horizon? According to the gathered sages at the Tuscany Weather Centre, we might have to twiddle our thumbs until mid-November for a more substantial change. They’re keeping their fingers crossed for a North Atlantic trough to sweep in, but even then, it won’t be a net positive slam dunk.
In summary, folks, when it comes to weather forecasts, there’s always a “cloud” of uncertainty hanging over us, isn’t there? And when predictions stretch beyond five days, uncertainty becomes the guest of honour at a rather confused banquet. So, whether we see snowflakes or just mournfully overcast skies, let’s raise a toast to the fact that this week, at least, winter isn’t knocking down Tuscany’s door just yet. Instead, it seems to be peering through the keyhole, too scared, it seems, to come on in.
Until next time, keep your umbrellas handy and your spirits high! After all, nothing quite serves as comfort on a chilly day like a good laugh—or a hot cup of cocoa, depending on your preference.
This is the intricate beauty – and at times, the less appealing aspects – of meteorology. Forecasts are inherently imbued with a degree of uncertainty, which means they are always susceptible to alterations. Consequently, it often occurs that initially anticipated weather scenarios shift and evolve into entirely different situations. Such a transformation appears to be unfolding concerning the forthcoming cold weather expected in Tuscany. While just days ago, the potential for the first snowfalls in the Apennines was prominently highlighted, particularly on Tuesday 12 and Wednesday 13 November, current indications suggest a dramatic shift in this outlook. The Tuscany Weather Centre, which diligently monitors meteorological developments in the region daily, elaborates on these changes.
The situation
The Tuscany Weather Center clarifies that Sunday, November 10th, and Monday, November 11th, are predicted to be two days of abundant sunshine with daytime temperatures remaining relatively mild, accompanied by a gentle breeze from the northeastern quadrants. However, during the early morning and nighttime hours, chilly conditions are expected to prevail in the plains and internal valleys of the Apennines. The CMT notes that a high-pressure system will soon encounter two significant cold drops beginning on Monday, November 11th.
How cold does it get?
Addressing the impending cold drops, the Tuscany Weather Center reports, “The initial cold front approaching from Eastern Europe is unlikely to reach the Italian peninsula. In contrast, the second cold front originating from Northern Europe, with Arctic characteristics, may deviate significantly from earlier model projections. Instead of settling over our region and causing adverse weather with noteworthy snowfall at higher altitudes, this front will swiftly veer toward the Balearics and the Iberian Peninsula. We anticipate a noticeable temperature drop between the evening of Tuesday 12th and Wednesday 13th November,” the Tuscany Weather Center explains, “but this cooling will be short-lived and likely not accompanied by substantial rainfall.”
In the future
The Tuscany Weather Center wraps up by stating, “For a meaningful shift in weather patterns, we may have to hold on until mid-November, when a significant North Atlantic trough is expected to impact our peninsula. However, even this forecast suggests a markedly different trajectory. It’s crucial to bear in mind that weather forecasts extending beyond five days come with a high degree of uncertainty, particularly when forecasting cold systems affecting our region.”
**Interview with Dr. Francesca Bellini, Meteorologist at the Tuscany Weather Centre**
*Interviewer:* Thank you for joining us, Dr. Bellini. We’re really curious about the weather updates in Tuscany. With predictions indicating some fluctuation, what can you tell us about this weekend’s weather?
*Dr. Bellini:* Thank you for having me! This weekend, we’re looking at a delightful interlude of sunny skies and mild temperatures on Sunday and Monday. It’s a perfect time for people to enjoy the outdoors, although they should keep in mind that a gentle breeze from the northeast will remind everyone that autumn is still with us.
*Interviewer:* That sounds lovely! However, you mentioned that after Monday, things could take a turn. What should we expect as we move into the middle of November?
*Dr. Bellini:* As we head into the evening of the 12th and the morning of the 13th, we’re anticipating a significant drop in temperatures. However, this shouldn’t be mistaken for a prolonged cold spell. The forecast indicates that any severe weather events—like snow—are unlikely. Instead, we expect some chilly moments, accompanied by scattered clouds, but no substantial rainfall.
*Interviewer:* It sounds like a mixed bag then! Could you elaborate on the unexpected shifts in the weather predictions?
*Dr. Bellini:* Certainly! Just a few days ago, we were bracing ourselves for the possibility of snow in the Apennines. However, our latest analyses show that the first cold drop from Eastern Europe will not have a significant impact here. Instead, a more powerful cold drop from Northern Europe seems poised to slide past Tuscany towards the Balearics. So, we’re experiencing a dramatic shift in expectations.
*Interviewer:* With all of this uncertainty, how should residents prepare for the coming days?
*Dr. Bellini:* I recommend that people stay updated with our latest forecasts. It would be wise to have your umbrellas handy just in case and enjoy any lovely autumn days while they last. And if winter does decide to peek through later this month, we’ll all be ready for it!
*Interviewer:* Thank you, Dr. Bellini, for the insightful update. It seems like Winter’s still hesitating to settle in Tuscany.
*Dr. Bellini:* Exactly! And until it really arrives, we should enjoy each day as it comes. After all, a little unpredictability keeps life interesting!
*Interviewer:* Well said, Dr. Bellini. We’ll definitely keep an eye on the forecasts and make the most of this beautiful autumn weather! Thank you again for your time.