Mangia, Mangia........eat, eat...

Sorry, I am just going to steal your recipes. My Sicilian American family was filled with good cooks. I took on the role of baker so I could use the kitchen when everyone else has left. Less people looking over your shoulder and criticizing your technique. I can tell you more about Apple and Pumkin Pie with Bourbon, Christmas sugar cookies etc. I love my family's honey balls and strufoli and butter pound cake too. I definitely have a sweet tooth. I do not have an original recipe for a contest. While I do love Italian flavors I grew up in a German and Polish area & I love those foods too. I make a mean sauerbraten.. why I do not know! My Mom's manicotti is great too. She does not make it with a thick pasta shell though . She uses a light crepe. It melts in your mouth. I like caponata too. I will venture out to make that. I do not have a recipe I just throw the stuff together. Sauteed onions, garlic, celery cubed eggplant mixed with tomatoes olives, capers, a bit of cocoa powder as a thickener and vinegar. Serve on toasted bread with cheese sprinkled on top.