Mama's Favorite Italian Recipes

My mama Gracie Barbuto Isaacs (holding wine glass, center) surrounded by members of the Barbuto family as they celebrate her birthday. She was at her happiest when surrounded by family. Any occasion was an excuse for a family get-together with plenty of laughter and of course those wonderful Italian recipes which had been handed down from her mother.

As Australianised as the family had become (note the short pants and informal Aussie attire), Italian recipes were passed around family and friends who wanted to recreate that mediterranean flavour in their own kitchens. And mama, as generous as ever, was always happy to pass on her tips - not only on Italian recipes but on the best way to kill a fowl (or "chook'' in Australian lingo) or to stuff a duck. 

• Costolette di Maiale alla Pizzaiola
• Fish With Olives
• Grilled Eggplant Mozzarella
• Italian marsala veal
• Italian stuffed pepper recipe
• Melanzane alla Parmigiana
• Mamas Ministrone Soup
• Ossobuco alla Milanese
• Pasta piselli
• Risotto With Mushrooms
• Spaghetti With Pesto
• Tripe Florentine Style