Exciting News in Greenville: Celebrate Sicilian Pastries with Victoria Granof
It’s a crisp autumn afternoon in Greenville, and excitement is brewing as M.Judson Booksellers prepares to host a special event that promises to warm the hearts of food lovers and history buffs alike. On October 27, cookbook author Victoria Granof will make a splash in our charming town with her upcoming cookbook, “Sicily, My Sweet: Love Notes to an Island, with Recipes for Cakes, Cookies, Puddings, and Preserves.” This delightful book shines a spotlight on the rich tapestry of Sicilian pastries and their fascinating background.
A Journey of Discovery
As Granof strolled back to her Brooklyn home on a Friday afternoon, we caught up with her about her culinary journey and the road that led to this delectable masterpiece. “I wrote a head note on the recipes, but it’s not like, ‘Serve this with a cup of tea,’” she shared, emphasizing that her book goes beyond mere cookery. Instead, it offers readers a wealth of information, history, and anecdotes that breathe life into each recipe.
Granof has a fascinating personal story that intertwines with the history of Sicily. For years, she believed her roots traced back to Turkey. However, after consulting historical records, she discovered her family actually descended from Sicily and had been exiled during the Spanish Inquisition. This revelation led her on a quest to connect with her true heritage, resulting in an unforgettable journey to Sicily where she finally found a place that felt like home.
A Culinary Artist
With a background as a trained chef from Le Cordon Bleu, Granof made her mark in the culinary world as a food stylist. She recognized early on that much of food styling was overly manipulated and lacked authenticity. This realization sparked her desire to create art with food in a way that felt more organic and true. By the time she settled in New York City, she felt ready to carve her niche in the culinary industry.
Granof’s passion for Sicilian pastries has been evident since her first cookbook, “Sweet Sicily: The Story of an Island and Her Pastries,” which came out in September 2001. Reflecting on that time, she admitted, “I hadn’t been styling that long… I didn’t really have anything.” Fast forward twenty years, and her new book not only showcases her culinary skills but also captures her personal and artistic growth, showcasing her creative vision at every turn.
The Sweet Tapestry of Sicily
Sicily is a melting pot of cultures, with its past colored by various civilizations. According to Granof, the history of Sicilian pastries reflects that cultural blending beautifully. “Sicily has been occupied and dominated by many, many different civilizations,” she explained. This unique convergence of influences is evident in the island’s desserts, creating an exciting culinary narrative rich in tradition.
Join the Celebration
On the evening of October 27, you have a chance to delve into this tapestry of flavors at the Italian dinner and book signing hosted by Granof at M.Judson Booksellers, located at 130 S. Main St. The event will feature a delightful four-course meal paired with wine, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the culinary delights of Sicily while enjoying Granof’s insights about her book. The best part? The ticket price includes a copy of the book, entrance to the event, and dinner!
Don’t miss out on this flavorful evening celebrating the enchanting world of Sicilian pastries. Tickets can be purchased online, and the festivities kick off at 6:30 p.m. on that Friday night. Whether you’re a foodie, a history lover, or just someone in the mood for good company and delicious fare, this event is sure to be a memorable experience!
