Born and raised in a 200-person village in Sicily, Paolo Castriciano spent his childhood in the farm, growing fresh produce, making tomato sauce, fresh olive oil, red wine, and much more with his grandparents. This, he attests, was his culinary education – one that’s served him well into adulthood.

For Paolo, cooking Italian food is about maintaining a connection to a particular time (his childhood) and place (his Grandfather’s house). “When I cook, I feel like I never left home,” he says. “When I bring the flavours and smells to my kitchen, I feel like my Grandmother is beside me.”

Invariably crucial to his efforts is a generous dose of two things. The first: good-quality of food.

Secondly, it’s all about the love. “When you’re cooking Italian food, you must cook with passion and love,” he says. “You have to put your own twist on things, but the old way and the tradition is something you learn from the beginning, and you should never lose sight of that. It’s been passed on from father to son and then on again, so keep the tradition alive within your family. That’s what you have to do.”

Paolo’s journey from a humble home cook to a celebrated culinary star is a story that has captivated many, particularly when it was showcased on SBS Australia. His passion for cooking, combined with an unwavering commitment to authenticity and innovation, earned him a spot on the big screen alongside some of Australia’s food giants: Dan Hong, Mark Olive, and Melissa Leong.

Paolo's love for cooking began in his grandmother's kitchen, where he spent countless hours learning the art of traditional recipes. His early experiences instilled in him a deep appreciation for the complexities of flavor and the joy of sharing a meal with others. As he honed his skills, Paolo developed a unique cooking style that blends classic techniques with modern twists, reflecting his diverse culinary influences.

Sbs Australia