Aperitifs: appetizers for every occasion

My name is Alessandro Carlini, I was born in Milan in 1961 to parents from Emilia. My father was originally from Sestola, a mountain village in the province of Modena, and he taught me how to make Berlenghi, a typical specialty from that part of the Apennines. These are very thin crêpes made from a simple, liquid batter consisting of water, flour, and salt, which is called "colla." Another specialty from the Modenese Apennines is Crescentine (better known as Tigelle), a small, round type of bread, which, like Berlenghi, are traditionally served with Modenese pesto—a blend of lard, garlic, and rosemary, accompanied by Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, these dishes can be paired with cured meats, cheeses, vegetables, or Nutella for a sweet version.