| NO PIZZO, NO PROBLEM |

Palermo has the distinction of being the most conquered city in Europe. It’s been invaded, beaten up, and bashed about for two millennia. But all this foreign influence gave Sicily one great gift: truly spectacular food. Pastas, cannolis, pizza, biscotti, rice and fish and meat dishes, all layered with flavors brought from around the world. But Sicily’s modern enemy hasn’t inspired culinary greatness - maybe because this threat is entirely home-grown: La Cosa Nostra. The Sicilian Mafia. 

Outside Italy, the Mafia conjures images of Scorsese and Coppola films - of criminals that operate under a strict code of honor. Wise guys who love their mothers. There’s an allure, a sort of glamour. The truth for those who have lived under the thumb of the Mafia is much darker and bloodier.  

But now, on this island that is a melting pot of cultures and flavors, a grassroots movement is rising. 

This week on Passport, we head to Palermo to meet a group of brave foodies, chefs, and activists who have decided to stand up and fight back. And to take on La Cosa Nostra the community is utilizing something the Sicilians pride above everything else. Some of the most amazing food anywhere on earth.

For more, including links to the things we talked about, and the places we visited, plus a full transcript, visit: https://wwwfrequencymachine.com/passport

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