Sweet Things
Tiramisu Alessio
A sexy and sophisticated, yet simple, Italian dessert with multiple, even erotic, histories. Considered an aphrodisiac by Italians from Treviso, Tiramisu was served to pleasure seekers inside houses of ill repute “to keep them going and the money flowing.” The cake was intended to reinvigorate brothel guests so they could last for multiple sessions, or at least until they were running low on cash. Proud Tuscan Italians may share that it has a more noble history with 17th century Sienese roots. Dubbed “zuppa del duca” (the duke’s soup), it was served to a Cosimo de’ Medici, a member of the most powerful family in Italy that ruled Italy for centuries. Choose yourself which story to retell when serving. Traditionally made with only espresso, savoiardi (sponge like biscuits known as ladyfingers), mascarpone (a cheese with 75% fat content), eggs, and sugar, this base lends itself to personal tastes. Tinker with a nip of rum, a sprinkle of chocolate chips, or fortified cherries. Serving in glass jam jars or a mish mash collection of recycled glass jars makes this version easy to freeze and serve as semifreddo, a charming frozen mousse-like dessert. This is a pass the spoons and dig in crowd pleasing dessert.
