This dessert recipe came from my father’s side of the family, specifically my grandfather. Before immigrating over to America, my grandfather lived in a small town near Naples, Italy, where they had a small farm. Money was not easy to come by, so when it came to making desserts or meals for special occasions, my grandfather’s family made “migliaccio,” which is derived from the Latin word for “millet.” It would be a small pie made from grains and eggs, a simple recipe which did not require much money for the ingredients. This dessert would be made and eaten throughout the year, especially on the night before Ash Wednesday. Today, my family loves to make migliaccio for family gatherings, and ever since my grandfather found the recipe he has made over eighty pies, always willing to share some with all the family and friends he could find. When I was younger, I remember the pie being passed around the dinner table, and I would always ask my mother to cut a slice for me, so eating this pie not only brings back happy memories but it is delicious to eat!

– Ilaria Lippiello

Relationship:  Grandchild of im/migrant Grandchild of im/migrant