The Sopranos to launch recipe book

The producers of The Sopranos are to launch a recipe book by one of the show's characters.

The Sopranos Family Cookbook: As Compiled by Artie Bucco is a collection of southern Italian-style recipes.

Bucco is the owner of the Nuovo Vesuvio restaurant in the TV series.

The recipes will be sprinkled with "advice" from other cast members, including Tony Soprano's grilling methods.

HBO, the TV network which broadcasts the show, is also planning a gourmet food line.

The first products will go on sale this autumn and include marinara sauce, pasta, salad dressing and frozen pizza.

The products will be available via HBO's website from September.