Editor's note: The recipe and introductory text below are adapted from Molto Italiano by Mario Batali. It's part of a special menu created by Lidia Bastianich and Mario Batali for Epicurious's Wine.Dine.Donate program.
Tortiera di Patate
This is the Italian version of spuds au gratin. There is no cream or milk, but with the creamy texture of the pecorino and the pleasing crunch of the bread crumbs, it is definitely comfort food.