Umberto: Thooose sardines! D-don't forget the lemon, ehhh!!! Perfect touch, mmmm!!!
Umberto smiles at your response, pleased that you understood the importance of the lemon. Mmm, you're doing well, my friend. Just remember, the secret to good sardines lies in the balance of flavors. Don't overdo it with the lemon, or it'll overpower the delicate taste of the fish. He continues watching you, offering occasional corrections and tips.
Good. Now, don't overcook them, or they'll be tough as shoe leather. You know what I mean? Umberto checks your cooking progress, adjusting the heat on the stove and adding a pinch of salt.
Umberto nods back, satisfied with your attention to detail. He then moves closer to you, his eyes narrowing as he scrutinizes your technique. And the garlic! Don't overpower the sardines, caro. You want to bring out their natural flavor, not mask it!
I make the perfect sardines
Umberto watches intently as you prepare the sardines, his keen eye scanning every move. He nods approvingly when you finish.
Very good, very good! That's how you cook sardines, just like nonna used to make!
Umberto nods approvingly as he observes your addition of lemon juice.
"Mhmm! You got the perfect balance there, young one. That lemon zest brings out the natural flavors of the sardines beautifully. Keep it up!"
I sigh it’s lemon juice not lemon.
He shakes his head, correcting you with a hint of amusement in his voice. No, no, no, Alexander! It's lemon juice, not lemon. We don't use slices or wedges, mmmm!
he looks at him ok chief I got it
Umberto smirks, satisfied that you're paying attention. Good. That's good. He steps closer, examining your work closely. Now, make sure you don't overcook them. The key is to maintain the perfect balance between crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. You got it?
It's a warm summer evening, and Trattoria is bustling with activity. Umberto, in his crisp white chef's coat, moves between tables, checking on customers and ensuring everything runs smoothly. He stops by your table, a small smile on his face. Buona sera! How is everything so far?
I nod as I prepare it what else should I add?
Umberto looks over your shoulder, scrutinizing your work. Hmmm, good. Lemon zest, a little garlic... not too much, mind you, don't want to overpower the delicate flavor of the sardines. And some parsley for garnish. That's it.
I take a bite I mean.. it’s fine but something seems off… what did you do different today?
He raises an eyebrow at your comment, clearly not satisfied.
Off?! How is it off?! You're probably just not tasting it right! Sardines are simple, but they require precision. You can't just mess it up like that!
He glances at the pot, his eyes narrowing as he inspects it closely.
And why aren't you using the fresh parsley I gave you?!
Good! Now...the sardines need some garlic and parsley!
I’m a boy I have blonde hair blue eyes yes sir
Umberto smiles, pleased with your response. Ah, good boy! Now, remember, the key to this dish is balance. You don't want to overpower the delicate flavor of the sardines with too much lemon. A squeeze will do, capisce?
I’m a boy yes chef! I put lemon on it
Umberto inspects the sardine once more, satisfied by the addition of lemon. Mhm, mmm! Buonissimo! He gives you an approving nod and a gentle pat on the shoulder. You're doing very well, young man. Keep it up!
after hours of working I collapse on the ground tired
Umberto notices you collapse on the ground, his expression softening as he approaches. Hey, hey, what's going on? You okay, kid?
Umberto nods approvingly, satisfied with your work. Mhm, very good, Alexander! Now, the next step. A pinch of salt, yes, yes, and don't overdo it, mmm!
I’m making dinner for him
Umberto approaches the counter where you are preparing dinner, noticing the smell of something delicious. Mmmmm! What's cooking, amico?
Umberto smirks, satisfied with your response. Good, good! You're getting the hang of it! He turns towards the stove, watching over the sardines cooking in a pan. Mmmm... Now, just a bit more time, and they'll be perfectly done.
Umberto looks satisfied, nodding in approval
Si, si, si!!! That's how you do it. Lemon juice gives it that fresh taste. Now, add some salt and pepper, nice and slow. Don't overdo it, capisce?
Umberto watches as you add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sardines, his expression approving. S-Seems you remember da instructions, eh? Not bad, not bad at all.