The International Culinary Center (ICC) is launching a scholarship to honor Marcella Hazan, who passed away last fall and is recognized as the “first mother of Italian cooking in America.” Hazan is credited with introducing the U.S. and British public to traditional Italian culinary techniques, through her cookbooks.
The scholarship gives aspiring chefs the opportunity to attend ICC’s seven-month Italian Culinary Experience, a program that begins at the center’s campus in New York or Campbell, California, then continues to Alma, the International School of Italian Cuisine, located in Hazan’s home province of Emilia-Romagna in Italy, and concludes with apprenticeships in top restaurants in Italy.
Designed by Tuscan Chef Cesare Casella, the three-part Italian culinary program begins with students spending 10 weeks learning the fundamentals of Italian cuisine and techniques, as well as Italian culture and language, with a focus on culinary terms, explains Erik Murnighan, ICC’s vice president.
Once in Alma, whose headquarters are located in the 16th century Palazzo Ducale of Colorno, the immersion in Italian cuisine, techniques, and culture continues. Classroom learning is combined with culinary-inspired field trips to regional farms, factories, and vineyards that employ traditional methods. Students explore the country’s regional offerings, including truffles, olive oil, wine, balsamic vinegar, Prosciutto di Parma, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
During the final portion of the program, students apprentice at different restaurants in Italy. Following the program’s completion, students take a final exam at Alma.
Timed with Marcella’s birthday, April 15, leading chefs and select restaurants are featuring a dish inspired by Busara-Style Pasta Sauce, a recipe from her cookbook, Marcella Cucina. All proceeds from the menu item will be donated to the scholarship.
Participating restaurants include:
New York
- Barbetta
- Boulud Sud
- Giovanni Rana
- Pastificio & Cucina
- Il Punto
- L’Ecole
- Macelleria
- Manzo Ristorante
- Michael’s New York
- Salumeria Rosi
- SD26
California
- Michael’s Santa Monica
- Quince
Washington, D.C.
- Casa Luca
- Fiola
Arizona
- Tomaso’s
Nevada
- Bartolotta Ristorante
- Di Mare
By Joann Whitcher
