Search Results for: Italy

Italia is what the Italians call their country. There are a couple of theories of how Italy got its name. Originally it was spelled Vitalia, which likely stems from the Latin word “vitulus”, which means “calf-land” or “land of cattle.” This makes sense as southern Italy was rich in cattle. Another theory comes from Greek mythology, when Eurystheus ordered Hercules to bring him cattle from the monster Geryon. Just as Hercules was escaping with the cattle, a bull got loose and jumped into the sea. The bull swam to Sicily and then made its way to the neighboring country. The native word for bull was “Italos” and so the country was named Italy after the bull.

Italy is located in the Mediterranean Sea and is a peninsula shaped like a high-heeled boot kicking a ball, the ball being the island of Sicily. There are many islands that are part of Italy; the largest are Sicily and Sardinia. Italy borders Switzerland, France, Austria and Slovenia. It also has two independent states, Vatican City and San Marino. Italy has a coastline of 4700 miles. Nearly 4/5ths of Italy is mountainous and hilly, with a fertile plain along its longest river called the Po. Italy’s highest peak is Mont Blanc in the Alps. It is also home to three volcanoes that have all erupted in the past 100 years; Mt. Vesuvius, Etna and Stromboli.

The people of Italy are mostly Italians, with a small minority of Germans, French, Slovenes, Albanians and Greeks. The language they speak is Italian, a romance language. The majority of Italians are Roman Catholic and the church has played a large part in their lives and history. This is not surprising, as the Vatican City is located in the heart of Rome and is where the Pope resides. Italy’s topography was conducive to developing independent territories. These kingdoms did not become united until 1861, under Victor Emmanuel II, who was named the first king of Italy. Italians celebrate their independence on June 2nd, with Festa della Repubblica, which celebrates when they were transformed from a Kingdom to a Republic, after being liberated from Nazi Germany, in 1946.

Italy has a remarkable history, as they were the home of the Roman Empire which was a world power two thousand years ago. The Roman Empire lasted from 27 BCE to 476 CE in the west and continued until the fall of Constantinople (also known as the Byzantine Empire) in 1453 CE, in the east. Its tentacles reached nearly all of Europe, Egypt and along with the north coast of Africa, stretching 2.3 million miles. Nearly one in four of all people, during this time, were ruled by the Romans. The inventions and innovations that were generated during this time continue to be used in cultures around the world today. Some believe it was the most important time in history. It is hard to say what the Romans invented on their own or what they simply expanded upon, but there were many innovations. Advancements in roads and buildings, indoor plumbing, and aqueducts, apartment complexes, public toilets, locks and keys and even shoes, socks, and cosmetics are just a sampling of their contributions to society. The western calendar, including the names of the days of the week and months, was created by Julius Caesar. They also made improvements in the fields of medicine, warfare, law, and government; a legacy which continues to affect the way we live today.

Italy has more masterpieces per square mile than any place else in the world, which is why it is the country with more UNESCO world heritage sites than any other country. Italy attracts over 50 million tourists per year and tourism constitutes 63% of their national income.

Rome, also known as the “Eternal City,” is the capital of Italy and home to so many amazing treasures: the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican, St. Peters Basilica and its famous dome, the Colosseum, seating 60,000 spectators who would watch chariot races and gladiators battle to the death back in the early first century and there is the famous Trevi Fountain, where tourists drop 3000 Euros worth of coins in the fountain every day, as they make a wish. (The coins are collected daily and given to charity to help the poor.) There is also a sophisticated system of aqueducts that provided water to the ancient city and mysterious catacombs, which are underground Roman burial grounds. Rome is the most popular tourist destination in Italy.

The city of Florence, considered to be the birthplace of the Renaissance, is located in central Italy. This beautiful city is filled with museums, monuments and artwork from many of the greats like Michelangelo (creator of the famous statue of David), Botticelli and Da Vinci. Many works are housed in the Uffizi Gallery, opened in 1560; one of the oldest museums in the world. A spectacular UNESCO site in Florence is the Duomo di Firenze, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flowers. Its construction was begun in the late 1200s and not completed until mid-1400s. A dome, larger than ever before constructed, was an engineering marvel and completed long after the other structures of the Duomo but before the structural calculations for its success even existed. The façade of this amazing complex is made of green and pink marble, outlined in white. It is absolutely stunning!

Florence is considered the capital of the Tuscany region of Italy. Tuscany is famous for its spectacular landscapes, with rolling hills and fields of flowers, which has been the inspiration for many of the great artists. The region of Tuscany reaches from the Apennines to the Tyrrhenian Sea. It comprises ten provinces, including Pisa, home to the famous leaning tower that tilts 14 feet from perpendicular. Medieval villages, historical towns, castles, country churches and abbeys dot the landscape throughout the region. It is also home to Chianti, famous for their vineyards and olive groves.

Venice is another spectacular city located in the northeast, founded over 1500 years ago. It is a city that is famous for its art and architecture but mostly for its unique system of 118 small islands separated by canals and linked by bridges. The canals work as the roadway for transportation. Gondoliers, dressed in boldly stripped shirts, will gladly take a tourist to their destination gliding in a lushly appointed gondola, decorated in crushed velvet and Persian rugs while playing romantic, Italian music. The whole city is a UNESCO site and there, one of the most eminent spots, is St. Mark’s Basilica. Venetians, known for their Carnival and Masquerade balls, (where pretty much anything goes), is also celebrated for their film festival that attracts the rich and famous from all over the world. Venice does face challenges, as it is sinking and prone to flooding. It is quite an experience to hear the sirens sound and watch workers frantically construct an above ground walkway all along the main canal. Fashionable rubber boots for women are common attire in Venice, as it floods about once a week. The bottom stories of most buildings have been abandoned due to its sinking shores, yet Venice remains one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Italy.

Milan is considered to be the main industrial, commercial and financial center of Italy. Also rich in history with museums, theatres and cathedrals (one of which houses Da Vinci’s, “The Last Supper.”) Milan is considered to be one of the best fashion and design capitals of the world; presenting two full weeks of fashion shows with collections from Valentino, Prada, Gucci, Versace, Armani and Dolce & Gabbana, to name a few. Milan is also known for hosting the World Cup in 1934 and 1990. Soccer is considered to be the national sport. Italy has won the World Cup four times, just behind Brazil. Soccer fans are called “tifosi” meaning “carriers of typhus.” They are known for their rowdy behavior and lack of inhibition. Milan also just put on EXPO 2015; the World’s Fair. The theme of the fair was “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life.” It was the first time food was the theme of a world’s fair. The Expo, included pavilions from 145 countries around the world, where one could get a taste of each country’s cuisine.

As we look into Italy’s cuisine, they like to say they taught the rest of Europe how to cook. If you ask an Italian where is the best place to eat? The likely reply will be, “my mother’s house.” Each region and province have their own specialties and the cuisine is extremely diverse. From a culinary standpoint the region Emilia-Romagna is considered to be the “food breadbasket “of Italy. It is home to Parma, famous for the cheese Parmigiano-Regiano and prosciutto, but that is just the tip of the iceberg. They are also famous for Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena (balsamic vinegar certified and aged for 12 years) truffles, chestnuts, salume, raw seafood, called crudo, the real Bolognese, and fantastic wines.

Italians love food. They don’t view it as nourishment, they view it as life itself. Meals in Italy are savored, over a long period of time, enjoyed with family and friends and of course a lovely wine. Family is an extremely important value in Italian culture. Perhaps this is why treasured recipes are passed on from generation to generation.

Italians are known for using the freshest ingredients, which lets the flavors of the food shine through. They are also masters of using leftovers; nothing goes to waste. Many recipes are simple, with just a few ingredients and, unless you are making pasta dough from scratch, they are pretty easy to make. Italians use garlic, oregano, parsley, thyme, sage, basil and of course olive oil to flavor their dishes. Italian cuisine has to be one of the most exciting and delicious in the world.

There is so much to discuss regarding Italy’s cuisine. Take pasta for example, they have over 400 types with over 1300 names. It is used in one of three ways. First, fresh or dried pasta is cooked in boiling water, and then mixed with all a variety of pestos, sauces and toppings. Another way pasta is enjoyed is called “pasta in brodo” which means “in broth” making delicious soups. The third way, is pasta “al forno” or pasta that is cooked twice. First the pasta is undercooked in water to soften it and then baked in the oven, with any array of meats and sauces, like their world renowned lasagna.

Cheeses of all types are made in Italy and represent very regional flavors. Cheese is made from the milk of cow, sheep, goat and water buffalo. The flavors of the cheese have much to do with what the animal eats, which of course varies with region. Needless to say, they make fabulous cheeses. Here are a few of the popular types, but there are over 300 different kinds: mozzarella, ricotta, burrata, mascarpone and of course Parmigiano-Reggiano, which is a staple in every Italian household. There are plenty more commonly used in Italian cuisine, some of the more popular are gorgonzola, pecorino, provolone, and fontina. Italy is a cheese lover’s paradise.

Pizza is another prized dish in Italy. Flavored and topped flat breads had been around for ages, and focaccia, a type of bread that originated in Genoa may well be the precursor to modern day pizza. However, it was in 1889 when the Queen of Italy, Margherita di Silva, was vacationing in Naples and heard about the excellent pizzas made by Raffaele Esposito. He created her a special one, representing the colors or the Italian flag, with tomato, mozzarella and basil and she loved it. The pizza, which now bears her name as Pizza Margherita, made history. Today, modern day pizzas are topped with everything imaginable. To be a true pizza however, it needs to be cooked in a wood burning pizza oven. Pizzerias are found all over Italy.

In trying to pick a menu for Italy, I was completely overwhelmed. There are way too many delicious choices, so I decided to simply make some of my all-time favorites.

So let’s eat Italian style:

The Menu
Antipasto
Beef Carpacicio (Raw Beef)

Insalata
Insalate Caprese

Primo
Veal Estensi (Veal Scaloppini with Porcini Mushrooms)

Secondo
Fettuccine Alfredo

Dolce
Tiramisu (A Layered Dessert)

We began our Italian meal with the sounds of Luciano Pavarotti, (Did I mention music and opera are also world famous in Italy? They also have the distinction of having made the first violin, viola and cello back it the 16th century.) Luciano, even after his death, is considered a celebrity and is one of the best tenor voices in the history of opera.

We decorated with the colors of the Italian flag: green white and red. We added a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs, as well as lilies, since that is their national flower. We began with an aperitif; a sparkling wine called Prosecco. Our toast was “Cin Cin!” which means, “All good things for you!”

The first course of an Italian meal is called antipasto; an appetizer course to set the stage for the meal to come. Carpaccio is a dish of thinly sliced, raw beef or raw fish, and is for sure an all-time favorite. This one was made with beef tenderloin, topped with fresh arugula, pomegranate seeds and shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano, then dressed with olive oil and lemon. HEAVEN!

Next. was a caprese salad. Caprese means “in the style of Capri.” Capri is a beautiful island off the coast of Naples and is where the salad originated. This salad also has the colors of the Italian flag. It is typically made with buffalo mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze and seasoned to taste. The key is to get the freshest ingredients possible. I like to add fresh avocado and red onion which makes this one of my most requested dishes. The other secret, is to use a balsamic reduction glaze as opposed to regular balsamic. Deliciouso!

For the main course, we had an amazing veal scaloppine dish, called Veal Estensi. This dish is made with thin slices of veal topped in a cream sauce with porcini mushrooms, Madeira wine and a hint of orange. It is served over fettuccine in the style of Alfredo, (which is simply butter and cheese, not the creamy, American version) and was the perfect accompaniment.

For dessert, or dolce, as they call it in Italy, we enjoyed tiramisu. If I am going to splurge on a dessert, this one is always at the top of the list. It is a light, layered sort of creamy cake with a hint of coffee flavor. It is very difficult to describe other than to say, it’s magical.

The excellence of Italian cuisine drove me to offer you a couple of bonus items:
Pizza Margherita is made from pizza dough created from scratch. This was quite the experience for me, which you can read all about in the recipe. Despite the drama, it came out excellent!

Italian Pizza Margherita

Another one of my favorites, is a salad called “insalata di tonno con cannellini.” This super easy recipe has just a few ingredients and makes a lovely side dish or lunch. It is simply: canned tuna, white beans and celery, chopped Italian parsley, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper to taste. So simple, so Italian!

Tuna and Cannellini Salad

As we say goodbye to Italy, I leave you with a few, fun Italian food quotes:
“Everything you see I owe to pasta.” Sophia Loren
“Life is too short, and I’m Italian. I’d much rather eat pasta and drink wine than be a size 0.” Sophia Bush.
“It all ends with biscuits and wine” Unknown

Until next time,
Arrivederci and ciao,
Darlene Longacre

How did Tunisia get its name?

 It was called Africa by the Romans around 264-146 BC. This is what they named their first African colony which today is Tunisia.  In the early centuries of the Islamic period Tunisia was called Ifriqiyyah.

The name Tunisia is believed to stem from the Berber word Tunis meaning “to lay down” or “encampment”. Tunis is the name of Tunisia’s modern capital city and urban center.  Over time Tunisia came to be used for the entire country, which gained independence from France in 1956.

Where is Tunisia Located?

Tunisia is the northernmost country on the continent of Africa and part of the Maghreb region. It is bordered by Algeria to the west and Libya to the east.  It borders the Mediterranean Sea and has about 1100 kilometers of coastline and shares a maritime border with Italy. It is also only about 70 km from Southern Italy.

A Brief History of Tunisia

The history of Tunisia dates to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Paleolithic era. The region was later inhabited by the Phoenicians, who founded the city of Carthage in the 9th century BC. Carthage became a powerful city-state and a major center of trade in the Mediterranean, but it was eventually conquered by the Romans in the 2nd century BC. Today Carthage is an important UNESCO world heritage site which is located on the outskirts of Tunis.

After the fall of the Roman Empire, Tunisia was ruled by a series of Arab and Berber dynasties, including the Aghlabids, Fatimids, and Zirids.  In the 16th century, Tunisia became part of the Ottoman Empire, which ruled the region until the late 19th century.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Tunisia was colonized by France, which established a protectorate over the country in 1881. During this time, Tunisia underwent significant modernization and development, but also experienced political repression and economic exploitation.

In the mid-20th century, Tunisia became a center of nationalist movements, and in 1956, it gained independence from France. Habib Bourguiba became the country's first president, and he implemented a series of reforms aimed at modernizing the country and improving the lives of its citizens.

In the decades that followed, Tunisia experienced political instability and economic challenges, but it also made significant progress in areas such as education, healthcare, and women's rights.

In 2011, Tunisia was at the forefront of the Arab Spring, a series of protests and uprisings that swept across the Middle East and North Africa. The protests led to the ouster of longtime dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and the establishment of a democratic government.

Today, Tunisia is a democratic country with a diverse culture and a rich history. It is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant cities, and it is a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

Tunisian Culture

Tunisia is a country with a rich and diverse culture that reflects its long history and the influence of various civilizations. The country's culture is a blend of Arab, Berber, and Mediterranean influences, and it is characterized by its music, art, cuisine, and traditions.

The official language is Arabic. Although, most of the population speak what is known as Tunisian Arabic that has been heavily influenced by Berber, French and other languages.  French is also widely spoken and considered a second language followed by English.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Tunisian culture is its music. Traditional Tunisian music is a blend of Arab and Berber styles, and it is characterized by its use of percussion instruments, such as the darbuka and the bendir, as well as stringed instruments like the oud and the kanun.

Tunisian music is often accompanied by dance, and there are many different styles of dance that are popular in the country, including the chaabi, the mezoued, and the stambali.

Tunisian culture is also known for its art and architecture. The country is home to many beautiful mosques, palaces, and other historic buildings, many of which date back to the Islamic Golden Age.

Tunisian art is characterized by its use of bright colors and intricate patterns, and it is often inspired by the country's natural landscapes and traditional motifs.

Tunisian culture is a vibrant and diverse mix of traditions and influences that reflects the country's long and rich history.

Tunisian Cuisine

Tunisian cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean and North African flavors, and it is known for its use of spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients. The cuisine is loved for its bold and complex flavors. 

One of the most popular Tunisian dishes is couscous, a staple food made from semolina wheat that is steamed and served with a variety of vegetables, meats, and spices. Another popular dish is brik, a type of savory pastry that is filled with egg, tuna, or meat and then fried until crispy. Tajine, a slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, is also a popular dish in Tunisia.

Tunisian cuisine is also known for its use of spices, such as cumin, coriander, and harissa, a spicy paste made from chili peppers. Harissa is a key ingredient in many Tunisian dishes, and it is often used to add heat and flavor to stews, soups, and sauces.

Seafood is also an important part of Tunisian cuisine, thanks to the country's long coastline. Some of the most popular seafood dishes in Tunisia include grilled fish, seafood couscous, and seafood tajine.

Finally, Tunisian cuisine is also known for its sweets and desserts. Some of the most popular Tunisian sweets include baklava, a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough and honey, and makroudh, a sweet pastry made with semolina, dates, and honey. Yoyos are also beloved basically a Tunisian donut.

Tunisian cuisine is a delicious and diverse mix of flavors and ingredients that reflects the country's long and rich history. Whether you're trying traditional dishes like couscous and tajine or exploring the country's sweets and desserts, there is always something new and exciting to discover in Tunisian cuisine. 

So Let’s enjoy a Tunisian Meal:

The Menu

Famous Condiment

Harissa (North African Chili Paste)

First Course

Mechouia Salad

Main Course

Tunisian Lamb Couscous

Dessert

Yoyo’s (Tunisian Donuts)

We set the scene with the colors of the Tunisian flag; red and white. We placed symbols of Tunisia, dates as Tunisia have fifty percent of the worlds date palms, citrus as it is another important export. We also placed a photo of some camels as the dromedary camel that has only one hump is the national animal.  Jasmine was added as it the national flower.

We began our meal with “bil hana wa shifa” which means “may it be with pleasure and health”. As the hostess, I took the first bite which is customary there.  We also ate with our right hand as the left is considered to be unclean and should not be used to eat or pass food.

Our first course was an amazing salad called Mechouia. This salad is made with roasted red peppers and a few hot ones along with tomatoes and onion. It has a wonderful dressing made with roasted garlic, coriander, caraway, olive oil and lemon. The salad was topped with tuna, olives and giant capers. Hard-boiled eggs were served alongside with some French bread. It was delectable and so flavorful.  We simply devoured it.

The main course was a lamb couscous considered to be the national dish of Tunisia.  It is loaded with flavor and has hearty vegetables in it like carrots, zucchini, and potatoes.  It is also made with Tunisia’s famous harissa, a sauce made from chilies. This dish was so filling and delicious it is an easy one pot meal you will want to make again and again.

For dessert, we savored the delicious yoyo’s which are a Tunisian donut dipped in a sugar syrup flavored with orange, lemon, and honey.  They were topped with some crushed pistachios.  Truly, A heavenly bite.  

As we say goodbye to this beautiful African country, I leave you with a couple inspiring quotes from a couple famous Tunisians:

"The best way to predict the future is to create it." - Habib Bourguiba, Tunisia's first president and a key figure in the country's struggle for independence.

 "The pen is mightier than the sword." - This famous quote, often attributed to Tunisian writer and   philosopher Ibn Khaldun, emphasizes the power of ideas and the importance of intellectual pursuits.

“Until Next time”,

“Ila liqa fi marra okhra”

Darlene

How did Switzerland get its name?

The name Switzerland comes from one of its original provinces (known as cantons) called Schwyz.  The etymology of Schwyz is uncertain, but believed to be derived from a Germanic name.  The English adjective, Swiss, is derived from the French, Suisse, which has been used since the 16^th century. The Swiss call their country Schweizerisch. 

Where is Switzerland located?

This small, mountainous country famous for the Alps, is located in Central Europe.  It is a landlocked country that lies between France and Italy and is also bordered by Austria, Germany and Liechtenstein.  The majority of the population lives in the plateau, between the high Alps, which includes the famous Matterhorn in the south, and the Jura mountains, in the north.  It is beautiful; a home to some 7000 lakes that are so clear, you can see all the way to the bottom.  The largest is Lake Geneva, which is shared with France, where it is known as Lac Leman.

A Brief History of Switzerland

Switzerland originally was inhabited by Celtic tribes.  In the first century BC, Rome conquered the land, and it was a Roman province for 500 years.  In 1291, the families of Unterwalden, Uri and Schwyz formed a union of the three cantons and became an independent country.  It is one of the oldest nations in Europe.  It became formally independent of the Holy Roman Empire in 1499. Napoleon invaded the country in 1797, however he was defeated.  The Congress of Vienna gave Switzerland the status of permanent armed, neutrality in 1815.

The constitution was adopted in 1848 and took many of its principles from the US Constitution.  It does not allow for troops to be sent to serve in foreign wars. They have remained neutral in conflicts around the world, including both major world wars.  Military service is compulsory for Swiss men, aged 18 and over.  Switzerland is one of the most armed civilian nations but has one of the lowest crime rates.  Once they finish their service, all of them are supposed to take their assault rifles or pistols home, however without any ammunition.  The country is made up of 26 cantons, which form the confederation.  Independence Day is celebrated on August 1^st, when the Swiss Confederation was founded back in 1291.

Switzerland has not fought an international war since 1815.  They joined the United Nations in 2002 and has its second largest headquarters is in Geneva. They pursue an active foreign policy and are frequently involved in peace-building missions around the world.  Switzerland is also the birthplace of the Red Cross; one of the world’s oldest and best known humanitarian organizations.  

They are not part of the European Union, maintaining their own currency, the Swiss franc.  They are part of the Schengen Area, as one of the 26 participating countries.  Switzerland has the highest nominal wealth per adult, ranks eighth highest for GDP, and has been considered a tax haven.

Swiss Culture

Switzerland is home to about 8-½ million people. They are highly educated and considered very smart.  They have a large immigrant population.  It is a diverse and multilingual country with four national languages including German, French, Italian and Romansh.  Each canton has its unique cultural features and many dialects. 

The Swiss Alps have played a major role in creating the history and cultural diversity of Switzerland. Nowadays, all mountain areas have a strong skiing and mountaineering culture and are associated with folk arts like the alphorn and yodeling.  Embroidery and wood carving are also important traditions.  The Swiss chalet is also an important architectural heritage.

Switzerland ranks second highest in the world after Japan for life expectancy.  Perhaps it is the clean, mountain air and a society that loves nature and enjoys high quality health care.  Switzerland ranks top in the world in many categories, like having the highest salary and job security, low unemployment rate, and two of the most livable cities, being Zurich and Geneva.  It is not cheap to live in Switzerland.  In fact, Zurich is listed as the world’s third most expensive city to live in.  They are considered one of the smartest countries, especially in math and science, and it is where Albert Einstein developed his famous formula, e=mc².  They also have produced numerous Nobel Laureates, most coming from science.  Switzerland is probably most renowned for its banks and watches.

Swiss Cuisine

Switzerland was historically a country of farmers, so traditional dishes tend to be plain and made from simple ingredients.  Many Swiss favorites are variations and combinations of potatoes, meat and cheese with different types of sauces. 

One of the most well-known dishes is, cheese fondue.  Especially when made with melted cheese, like gruyere and emmentaler.  Along with a touch of wine and dried bread cubes served in a traditional pot called a caquelon, it is beloved.  Another favorite is the cow’s milk cheese, called raclette.  It is cooked by heating the cheese and scraping off the melted part and serving with potatoes, onions, gherkins and cured meats.  The national dish is considered to be rosti.  It was originally served for breakfast in the canton of Bern.  It is made from grated and cooked potatoes, similar to hash browns, or on a fritter but today, is served plain or with add-ons.

Muesli, is a Swiss invention from the early 1900s. It is a breakfast dish of rolled oats with dried or fresh fruits, nuts and seeds.  It is typically served with milk or yogurt and is now found all over the world.

Of course, the Swiss are also known for chocolate and are likely the best chocolate experts in the world.  Lindt and Cailler are world-famous.  The Swiss make about 180,000 tons of chocolate each year, and about 11 kilos are consumed per person, each year.  Despite this, they have the lowest obesity rate in all of Europe.

Switzerland has a unique position to incorporate the best culinary traditions of its neighbors; namely: France, Italy and Germany, as well its own national and regional specialties, making it a culinary delight.

So let’s enjoy a Swiss meal:

The Menu

 First Course

Raclette (Melted Cheese with Potatoes, Cured Meats and Pickles)

Main Course

    Zurcher Geschnetzeltes (Zurich style Veal in Cream Sauce)

Served with:

Swiss Rosti (Fried Potato Fritter)

Dessert

Engadiner Nusstorte (Walnut Pie)

We set the scene with the colors of the flag; red and white.  We decorated with a raclette grill, a picture of the famous Matterhorn, a Swiss army knife, a Swiss radio watch, a tube of Toblerone chocolate, a cow figurine and some Swiss cheese.

Our first course was the delicious raclette; melted cheese.  I bought a raclette grill, and I am in love.  Who wouldn’t be, with things covered in melted, delicious cheese?  It is a popular way to throw a dinner party these days and there are all sorts of fun raclette grills you can buy to cook for a crowd.  If you haven’t ever tried this, I would highly recommend it.

Our main course was a typical Swiss dish; the Zurich style, veal in cream sauce.  It was divine!  Tender pieces of veal were smothered in a hearty, cream sauce.  It was served with what is considered to be the national dish of Switzerland, rosti!  This is a crispy and delicious potato fritter which added a lovely texture to the meal.  Rosti could be enjoyed with any meal of the day.

For dessert, the walnut pie called, Engadiner Nusstorte, was the epitome of a pie.  Although the crust was a bit tricky to work with, it is a simple recipe that is well worth the effort.  

We enjoyed our meal with a bottle of Swiss wine; one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets.  They have been growing grapes in the region since Roman times.  The Swiss love their wine and actually don’t export too much of it.  One of their most famous wine growing areas is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site which dates back to the 12^th century, when monks planted the Dezaley vineyard in terraces on the slopes next to Lake Geneva.  When you enjoy your Swiss wine, you can say “Cheers” with “Sante’, Proscht” or “Salute,” depending on the language of the area.  Just make sure you look the person in the eye when you clink your glasses.

After dinner, we sat down to enjoy the movie Heidi, based on the famous children’s book’s written by Swiss author, Johanna Spyri, back in 1881. Heidi is a lovely story, sure to warm the heart.

Until next time,

Warmest regards,

Darlene

How did Somalia get its Name?

Ancient Egyptians called it the “Land of Punt.” Punt is also mentioned in the Bible, and ancient Romans called it, “Cape Aromatica.”  They valued its trees, which produced the aromatic gum resins, frankincense and myrrh.  Somali is an ethnic group so, it is believed Somalia means, “Land of the Somali.”  It is the most homogenous country in all of Africa, with Somali making up 85 percent of the population.  Bantu and other non-Somali make up the balance.  The official name is the “Federal Republic of Somalia” and the people there call it “Soomaaliya.”

Where is Somalia Located?

Somalia is the eastern most country of Africa; located on the strategic Horn of Africa.  It is bordered by Ethiopia to the west, Djibouti to the northwest, the Gulf of Aden to the north, the Somali Sea and the Indian Ocean to the east, and it also borders Kenya to the southwest.  It occupies a strategic geopolitical position between the countries of Arabia and southwestern Asia.  Its capital city is Mogadishu, located just north of the equator on the Indian Ocean.  It has the largest coastline of any African country.

A Brief History of Somalia

The origin of the Somali people is not certain but it’s believed that they originated in the southern Ethiopian highlands and migrated into northern Kenya during the first millennium, BC.  Later they migrated onto the horn or peninsula.

Due to its strategic location, influences from both Africa and Arabia are present.  There were multiple Somali empires during the middle ages that had a large impact on trade.  Some of these empires included: the Sultanate of Adal, the Warsangali Sultanate and the Gobroon Dynasty. 

Arabs introduced Islam to Africa beginning in the seventh century and by the tenth century, Arab trading posts thrived in southern Somalia, along the Indian Ocean.  Most Somalis converted to Islam by about 1100 AD.  They fought multiple wars against the Ethiopian Christians and became the dominant people in the land.  Their capital, Mogadishu, was at its height of influence and wealth during the 13^th century, when it controlled the gold trade along the East African coast.

In the 1800s the British and Italians arrived and established British Somaliland and Italian Somaliland.  The Dervishes fought off the British from the interior for years under the leadership of Muhammad Abdullah Hassan, until they were eventually defeated in 1920.  The Italians controlled most of the area until after World War II, when the British took it over completely.  In 1960, Somalia gained full independence from Britain.

Unfortunately, in 1991 civil war broke out.  Since that time, the country has been in anarchy with no real central government.  It is also home to the jihadist terror group known as Al-Shabaab.  As a result, it is one of the most violent and one of the poorest countries in the world.  They have suffered mass casualties from war, disease and famine and many Somalis live as refugees in their own country or in neighboring ones.  In the north there is an autonomous region known as Somaliland but it is not recognized as such by the international community.

Somalia Culture

The population of Somalia is a guesstimate of about 14 million.  The official language is Somali however, it did not become a written language until 1973.  Arabic is also an official language and is spoken and read for religious reasons.  A small percentage of Somalis speak Italian and a growing number speak English.  The official religion is Sunni Islam; traditionally Somalis practice a moderate form of Islam, influenced by Sufism.  However, the Salafi movement, a reform branch, has gained more political influence in recent decades.

About 3/5^th of the population are nomadic herders, the others are city dwellers.  The Nomads spend nearly all their time outdoors. The traditional shelter of the herders is called the aqal, which is a dome shaped, collapsible hut, made from poles and covered with hides or woven, fiber mats.  It is easy to take down and reassemble and is the responsibility of the women of the family.  It is carried by camel.  Typically only a bed is inside the aqal, made from wooden stakes and covered with hides.  They have few possessions and just enough household items for cooking.  Many nomadic camps are surrounded by a fence made from thorn bushes to keep out predators.  Animals are kept in corrals, also made from thorn bushes.  They typically will make camp near a shade tree which is used as a gathering place and class room.

Clan groupings of the Somali people are important social units.  Clan membership plays a central role in Somali culture and politics.  They are patrilineal and are divided into sub clans, resulting in extended families.  Unfortunately clan rivalries are one of the problems they face in establishing a central government for the nation.  Somalis have a very high fertility rate, an average of six children born per woman.  However, they have a very low life expectancy, with only 51 years for a man and 55 years for a woman.

Somali Cuisine

Somali cuisine is varied with different local foods in every region of the country.  Its main influences come from East Africa, Arabia, Turkey, India and Italy.  

The camel was first domesticated in Somalia and there are more camels in Somalia than any other country in the world.  Camel milk is to Somalia what cow’s milk is to the west.  They even have a common phrase which is uttered to guests, “soo maal” which means, “go milk” (the camel.)  Camel meat is also consumed however, goat is much more popular.

Goat meat is often cubed and seasoned with a spice blend called xawash, similar to Ethiopia’s berbere.  They make the cubed meat into what is called suqaar, a common dish like a stew which is often eaten with rice or anjero, a flat bread, similar to Ethiopia’s injera.  Spiced rice called bariis iskukaris, which is similar to a pilau, is beloved.  Sambusas, little fried pastries stuffed with meat or vegetables, are a go to snack.  Generally speaking, the cuisine of Somalia has many spices with cardamom being extremely prevalent.  They like to buy cardamom in pods and grind it, just before use.  Cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, coriander, ginger and fenugreek are all common spices.  Somalis also like their food spicy hot, from chilies.  However, they like to put it on the side, so they can add heat to their liking.

So let’s enjoy a Somali Meal:

The Menu

The Meal

Muufo (Somalia Bread)

Main Course

Baasta Iyo Suugo (Somali Pasta)

Made with Xawaash (Somali Spice Blend)

Served with

Somali Salad with Bizbaz (Jalapeno Dressing)

Dessert

Kac Kac (Somali Doughnut)

We set the scene with a leopard print cloth to represent the national animal of Somalia.  A white star, which is prominent on the flag of Somalia, was placed along with a photo of a camel.  A banana was added because they eat them with almost everything, and we included their national flower, the King Protea.  We used incense with the fragrance of frankincense.  The meal was served all together, which is customary there, except for the dessert.

The pasta dish was made with small cubes of beef and seasoned with their famous xawaash spice blend, which was excellent.  Somalis eat bananas with all sorts of things and this Somali Pasta was served with a banana on the plate.  I was skeptical at first but oh my goodness, it was delicious.  It provided a wonderful sweetness to the dish which perfectly balanced the flavors.  We also loved the thick bread called muufo which was made with fine semolina and flavored with fenugreek.  It was perfect to soak up the spicy sauce. 

A basic salad of lettuce, tomato and onion was served as well but the jalapeño dressing called Bizbaz was out of this world.  I have made the spicy, creamy dressing many times since I cooked this dish and it goes great as a dip for grilled meats or as it was intended, as a salad dressing. 

For dessert, we enjoyed kac kac, a delicious fried dough, gently flavored with a hint of cardamom.   We had them with a cup of Somali tea, known as shaah bigays; a simple black tea that is served after heavy meals.

Afterwards, we sat down to watch a film called, Black Hawk Down, a war film about the true story of the U.S. military’s 1993 raid in Mogadishu.

I pray the people of Somalia will find their way to rid the country of radical ideology and  can finally live in peace.

“Rajada ugu fiican!” which means, “Best Wishes!”

Until next time,

Warmest regards,

Darlene

How did Slovenia get its name?

The word Slovenin is a derivation from “slovo” meaning “word,” denoting people who speak the same language.  Slovenia is officially known as the Republic of Slovenia but is called Slovenija by its people.  The name comes from the Slovenes; the group of South Slavs who originally settled the area.  It is also known as the “Land of Hayracks.”

Where is Slovenia located?

Slovenia is a small country, situated in southeastern Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula.  It is bordered by Austria to the north, Hungary to the northeast, Croatia to the southeast, and Italy and the Adriatic Sea to the west.  It is a mountainous and forested country and sits in the foothills of the eastern Alps; making it a skier’s destination.  It has a small coastline along the Adriatic Sea, between Italy and Croatia, which enjoys a warm, Mediterranean climate.  It is also home to the Kras Plateau, which is a unique area of unusual geological formations; underground rivers, caves and gorges.  Its capital city and largest city, Ljubljana (pronounced lub-lee-yana,) is located in this area.  Ljubljana means “the loved one” and was voted the “Green capital of the world” in 2016. 

A Brief History of Slovenia

The Slovenes created their first state back in the 600s, which lasted until the eighth century when it was absorbed into the Frankish empire.  In the tenth century, Slovenia fell under the control of the Holy Roman Empire.  It then became part of the Austrian Hapsburg Empire, from 1335 to 1918. 

At the end of World War I, Slovenia joined with other Slavic nations to form “the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes.”  It was renamed in 1929, “the Kingdom of Yugoslavia.”  Slovenia and its neighboring states fell under Nazi Germany’s control in World War II.  Under the leadership of Josip Broz Tito, they fiercely resisted the German, Italian and Hungarian occupation, which led to a socialist Yugoslavia at the end of the war.  During the post-war communist period, Slovenia was the most prosperous region of Yugoslavia.

After Tito’s death in 1980, serious disagreements between the states began to grow.  On June 25, 1991 the Republic of Slovenia declared Independence after a relatively bloodless ten day war.  Since Independence, Slovenia has worked hard for economic stabilization and government reorganization.  Today, Slovenia is a member of the EU and the UN and NATO and is a thriving nation with a renewed focus on tourism.

Slovenian Culture

Slovenia is home to about two million people; half live in urban areas and the other half living rural.  About 50% of the population is Roman Catholic.  The large majority of the population is Slovene, with a few, Croatians, Hungarians, Albanians, Serbs and Italians in the mix.  The official language is Slovene, or Slovenian, and belongs to the Slavic languages.  Despite its small size, there are over 32 different dialects spoken in the country.  Many Slovenians are multi-lingual, and they have a 99.7% literacy rate.

Slovenia has a very strong cultural heritage and is proud of hosting over 100 festivals each year, to include music, dance, film and food traditions.  Many Slovenians are beekeepers, some 90,000 of them.  That is, nearly one in nine souls take care of the calm, Carniolan, honey bees, that are native there.  Many Slovenians also grow grapes for wine. There are over 28,000 vineyards in Slovenia, making it a wine haven.  This includes the oldest grapevine in the world, that grows in the Maribor area and is estimated to be 400 years old.

Speaking of old, Slovenia is home to some of the oldest artifacts in the world.  The oldest flute, made from a bear femur, is estimated to be 60,000 years old, a needle was discovered believed to be 30,000 years old, along with a 5200-year-old wooden wheel. 

Slovenia has much to offer especially for those who love nature and the outdoors.  Its highest peak is Mount Triglav and is featured on their flag.  The picturesque lake, in the Julian Alps, called Lake Bled, is a very popular tourist destination, with an island in the middle of the lake and an old church, very popular for weddings.  The church dates back to the 17^th century but houses Gothic frescoes go back to 1470.  Slovenia is home to many castles and also is home to important Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture.

Whether it is skiing in the Alps, exploring massive caves, kayaking along one of their beautiful rivers, or visiting the Venetian Gothic Mediterranean town of Piran along the Adriatic coast, it won’t take long for Slovenia to be the next major tourist destination in Europe.

Slovenian Cuisine

Slovenia, with its small size and many neighbors, has had many influences on its cuisine.  It is said to have 24 distinct culinary regions.  Generally speaking, Slovenian food is whole and hearty.  They do have many specialties, such as their famous karst prosciutto, cured with the cold winds of the region.  Buckwheat is made into several dishes and its white flowers are a favorite of the bees, who produce buckwheat honey.  Whole arrays of mushrooms are found throughout Slovenia and are favorites for foraging. 

The European walnut tree is native, but many were destroyed for their beautiful wood.  There has been a resurgence of the walnut tree and Slovenia is now home to some 100,000 of them; wonderful news for potica (a Slovenian nut pastry) nut lovers and bakers.  Dandelions, harvested in spring, are a nutritious green often used in salads.  Potatoes are ubiquitous and cooked in all varieties of ways.  Seafood is plentiful along the coast, however trout from the Soca river is the most beloved.  Carniolan sausage, made with pork, and beef is beloved. Soups are also extremely popular, one called Jota, is considered a peasant dish which is made with turnips, beans and onions and found throughout the nation.  Cheeses and dairy are also very popular. 

So let’s enjoy a Slovenian meal:

The Menu

Starter

Karst Prust (Karst Prosciutto)

Main Course

Stefani Pecenka (Meatloaf w/Hard-boiled Eggs)

Served with

Prazen Krompir (Roasted Potatoes)

Dessert

Potica (Nut-filled Pastry)

We set the scene with a honey jar, (featuring a bear with a honey statue.)  Slovenia is an important home to bears in its forested areas.  Walnuts and grapes were placed, along with a picture of their national tree, called the Linden tree, whose canopy has been a gathering place in Slovenian villages for centuries.  A picture of the famous Lipizzan horse was also added.  This is a breed that originated there.  Finally, we added a carnation; their national flower.

We began with a toast of a Slovenian white wine and said, “Na Zdravje” or “Cheers!”  We savored the appetizer course of prosciutto, sheep’s cheese and a bit of sweet melon. It was a lovely plate to begin a meal.

Our main course was called Sefani Pecenka; a simple meatloaf-style dish, spiced with vegeta, paprika, thyme and parsley, with a surprise of hard-boiled eggs in the middle.  The Stephanie roast was served alongside decadent roast potatoes, called prazen krompir.  These potatoes were topped with pork cracklings that had been cooked with pork fat and onions.  The combination of these two dishes was superb; hearty and comforting.

For dessert, we enjoyed one called potica.  Pope Francis made this dessert world famous when he mentioned it after he met Melania Trump  at the Vatican in May of 2017.  Melania Trump is the second-ever first lady to be born outside the USA.  She was born in Slovenia.  He said to her, “What do you give him to eat? Potica?” The sound-byte went viral and put potica on the world map.  It is not hard to see why.  It is a delicious, nut pastry that is frankly, unforgettable.  Although the walnut filling is typical, it is also made with other fillings, like raisins, tarragon, cheese, poppy seeds and chocolate.  There is another saying in Slovenia, “A potica a day keeps the sadness away.” Just another testament to its popularity.

As we say good bye to this lovely, little country, called Slovenia, I leave you with a few Slovenian proverbs:

Pray for a good harvest, but keep on hoeing!

Who is forced to go to church, will not pray.

and

Politeness costs nothing, but yields much.

Until next time,

Warmest regards,

Darlene

How did San Marino get its Name?

It is believed that Marinus, a Christian stonemason seeking refuge from religious persecution on Mount Titano, founded the state.  The story goes that shortly after Marinus was ordained a Deacon, in nearby Rimini, he was accused by an insane woman of being her estranged husband. So he fled to Mount Titano, to build a chapel and a monastery and live as a hermit.  From this community, the State of San Marino later grew.  Marinus was venerated to Saint Marinus by both the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church.  The State’s national holiday is celebrated on his feast day/memorial day, September 3^rd, commemorating the day in 301 AD when he founded what became known as San Marino.

Where is San Marino Located?

San Marino is an enclave located on the slopes of Mount Titano, on the Adriatic side of central Italy between the Emilia-Romagna and Marche regions.  It is landlocked and wholly surrounded by Italy.  It is one of the few remaining city-states that proliferated across Europe.  It has the distinction of being the world’s oldest sovereign state and constitutional republic ever recorded.  San Marino is Europe’s third smallest state and the world’s fifth smallest, after the Vatican, Monaco, Nauru and Tuvalu.  The whole Republic of San Marino is only 23.63 square miles.  The highest point of Mount Titano is 2457 feet above sea level and there are no bodies of water of any significant size.

A Brief History of San Marino

In the earliest days of its existence, its de facto independence was maintained because it was an inaccessible city state with no wealth to speak of and therefore absorbing it would be more trouble than it was worth.  So it was largely left untouched by the Romans and later the neighboring states.  In 1631, the Papal States which surrounded San Marino, formally recognized her independence.  This has lasted until the present day, despite being at times surrounded by a war zone.  Napoleon even left it alone because it was the oldest constitutional republic.  Garibaldi who was responsible for Italy’s unification granted San Marino’s wish to remain independent largely due to it being a safe haven for pro-unification refugees in the days leading up to unification.

During World War II, in 1944, San Marino was briefly occupied by German soldiers before they were run out by allied soldiers.

As of 2002, San Marino has used the Euro as its currency and does not have border patrol.  You can, however, pay to get a passport stamp at the tourism office, along with much sought after stamps.

The government of San Marino is unlike any other nation.  It does not have a prime minister or a king or a president.  For the head of state, they actually are headed by two Captain Regents, which are usually from two different parties. They are voted in by the Grand and General Council, which is where the true power lies.  The people elect the 60 council members who serve a five year term.  The practice of having dual rulers had been an old practice of Roman overlords, which they decided to retain, as it worked so well for them.

San Marino Culture

The people of San Marino are called Sammarinese.  They speak Italian.  The Republic is densely populated, with about 530 people per square mile.  The total population is around 33,000.  They take great pride in their heritage and roots, which can be traced back to ancient Rome.

Everything in San Marino has Italian features, from food, to fashion sense.  Like Italy, San Marino is a staunch Roman Catholic territory.  Over 95% of Sammarinese go to catholic churches and celebrate the customs and traditions set by the Vatican.

The Sammarinese also love their sports, especially soccer, basketball and volleyball.  Each of these sports has their own league but of the three, soccer is by far the most popular.  They also are fanatical about Formula One racing.  There used to be a San Marino Grand Prix that was held in Imola, Italy.  In 2007 the government decided to stop holding the race due to the bitter memories of the legendary Ayrton Senna and Roland Ratzenberger who both died at the San Marino Grand Prix races.

Despite living on a mountain slope the Sammarinese take pride in their healthy foods and long life span.  On average the Sammarinese, who have lived their lives in San Marino, have an average life span of 80 years.

Tourism is most important to San Marino’s GDP.  They welcome about 2 million visitors each year in their tiny Republic.

San Marino Cuisine

It is no surprise that Sammarinese cuisine takes its cues from Italy.  It has a Mediterranean flair emphasizing fresh and locally grown produce, Italian pasta and meats.  It is most similar to the Romagna region, where many dishes are shared. Yet the Sammarinese do have their own dishes as well.  Faglioni con le cotiche, is a soup that is made with Christmas beans and bacon.  Pasta e cece has chickpea noodles flavored with rosemary and garlic.  The Sammarinese are well known for their cheese making and olive oil pressing skills.  In fact, they had three exhibitions at the Paris world fair back in 1899.

Meals and the enjoyment of food is a large part of Sammarinese culture.  They also are very proud of their three towers, located on the three peaks of Monte Titano.  So it is not surprising that they named their desserts after them.  Torta Titano and Torta tre Monte, are just a couple of cakes inspired by them.

Of course wine is also prevalent in the region.  San Marino produces cask-aged, red and white wines.   They serve a Brugneto or Tessano, which are red wines, when red meat is on the menu.  If the main course is white meat or fish, Biancale or Roncale, which are white, are served.

So let’s enjoy a Sammarinese meal:

The Menu

Appetizer

Burrata Crustini (Cheese Toast)

Soup Course

Stracciatella Alla Romana (Egg Drop Soup)

Main Course

Nidi di Rondine (Swallows Nest Pasta)

Served with:

Conigilio al Forno con Finoccio (Roasted Rabbit and Fennel)

Dessert

Torta Tre Monti (Waffled Wafers with Hazelnut Cream)

We decorated with the colors of the San Marino flag; blue and white.  I placed three candles to represent the three towers of Monte Titano, along with oak and laurel branches that are on their Coat of Arms.  A cross and a stone completed the scene.

We began our meal by saying,  “Saluti” which means, “Cheers” as we toasted our glasses filled with Prosecco (an Italian sparkling wine.)  We savored our first course which was little pieces of toast with soft, creamy, burrata cheese.  (Burrata cheese is a fresh mozzarella stuffed with cream.)  It was topped with avocado and red onion and drizzled with a balsamic glaze.

Our next course was an Italian egg drop soup that is very popular in the region.  It is called Stracciatella Alla Romana.  Stracciatella, translated means, “little shred” which is how the egg looks in the soup when you stir them in.  The soup is light and refreshing and very customary to serve when someone is feeling a bit under the weather.  We enjoyed it with Italian bread sticks.

For the main course, we had two dishes.  One was called Swallows Nest Pasta or Nidi di Rondine, in Italian.  They call it that because of the way the pasta is rolled up and somewhat resembles a nest.  The best part is how it tastes!  A large pasta noodle smothered with a béchamel sauce then topped with two types of cheese, a piece of prosciutto, rolled up and topped with a marinara sauce and more cheese.  The dish was baked and we loved it.  It also is just as good (or even a little better) the next day, like many pasta dishes are.

For our second entre´, I decided to serve a more adventurous dish, which was roast rabbit and fennel.  I was thrilled to have guests joining me for this meal and knew they would enjoy something out of the ordinary.  The rabbit did not disappoint.  I was able to find the rabbit in my local Asian market’s frozen section and then had to look up how to cut it up.  It was similar to cutting up a chicken by cutting in between the joints.  At any rate, one rabbit is pretty small for four people, so I was glad we were already pretty full from the other dishes.  The rabbit was enjoyed and the flavoring with the onions and fennel was lovely and made my kitchen smell incredible.

For dessert, we devoured the Torta Tre Monti.  It is considered to be the national dish of San Marino.  It is layers of waffled wafers that has Nutella or traditionally a hazelnut cream between each one and chocolate icing on the sides.  It was topped with a dark chocolate cherry gelato.  It was a lovely combination, enjoyed with a little espresso.  “Magnifico!”

As we say goodbye to this tiny Republic of San Marino, I leave you with a legend which says that the creation of Mount Titano, on which stands the city of San Marino, was due to terrible giants called Titans.  They were the nephews of the god, Saturn, uncle of Zeus, who was on Olympus.  The Titans decided to attack him while he was sleeping and to scale the sky they began to accumulate boulders placing them on top of each other, but Zeus was warned and made them fall to the earth.  Consequently, there remained only the mountain made of rocks.  For this reason, it was called “Titan”.

Until next time,

“Arrivederci,”  (Farewell in Italian)

Warmest regards,

Darlene

How did Peru get its name?

Garcilaso de la Vega, was the first one to shed light of how Peru got its name.  Vega was born, the son of a Spanish conquistador and an Incan princess, in 1539.  He was one of the first to write detailed accounts of the Incas and Spanish conquests in Peru.  His book was published in 1609, was called, The Royal Commentaries of the Incas.

The story goes that in 1513, Spaniard Vasco Nunez de Balboa discovered the South Sea.  He spotted a native Indian who was quietly fishing at the mouth of an estuary.  His crew captured the native and hauled him aboard the boat.  After finally calming him down, the Spanish attempted to ask him questions about the unknown land.  Scared and confused but wanting to please his captors, he blurted out the word Beru, which was actually his name.  He then blurted out a second word, Pelu, which means, “river” in the Inca language.  The Spanish combined the two words to create what we know the country to be called today; Peru.  (The Incas and natives knew their country as Ttahuatin-Suya, meaning, “the four-quarters of the world.”)

Where is Peru Located?

Peru is located on the western border of South America.  Her neighbors are Ecuador and Columbia to the north, Brazil to the east, Bolivia to the southeast, Chile to the south and the Pacific Ocean to the west.  It is the third largest country on the continent, behind Argentina and Brazil.  Lima is the capital city and its main economic hub.

Peru has enormous biodiversity, with ninety distinct microclimates.  It is listed among the ten most biodiverse countries in the world.  The coastal plain, (costa) is a narrow strip of desert land that runs the length of the country.  There is an upland region, (sierra) the highland, which includes the very high mountain ranges of the Andes, as well as gorges and deep valleys.  There are many rivers that are born in the Andes and descend to the Pacific, allowing for irrigation to serve a very arid region.  The east is home to the tropical Amazon basin’s rain forest, jungle (selva), and the Amazon River.  Lake Titicaca, lies between Peru and Bolivia and is the largest lake in all of South America.  It is also the highest in altitude, navigable lake in all the world.  In Andean belief, Lake Titicaca is the birthplace of the sun.  Its waters are renowned for stillness and bright reflections.  Jacques Cousteau discovered ruins of an ancient city under the lake’s surface, He also discovered the descendants of the Quechua people, who still live on the islands today.

A Brief History of Peru

Peru has an ancient history, stemming from various tribal groups that lived there.  In the 12^th century, the small city state of Cuzco was formed by the Killkes tribe.  This began the formidable era of the Incan Empire.  Over the next several hundred years, the Incas managed to conquer not only Peru but also parts of Ecuador, Bolivia and northern Chile.  They had a highly developed civilization when the Spanish arrived there in 1531.  Spanish conquistador, Francisco Pizarro, conquered and captured Cuzco in 1533.  Peru was a great source of wealth and power for the Spanish, mostly from the gold and silver discovered in the Andes Mountains.  In 1535, Pizarro established Lima as the capital of Peru, which remains so today.  With the help of others, from Bolivia and Venezuela, Peru was able to defeat the Spanish and become a free country in 1821, when they declared their independence.

Like many newly independent countries, Peru went through a difficult time with coups, dictatorships, military rule and wars with guerilla groups fighting against the government.  In recent history, Alberto Fujimori, won three consecutive terms, despite being accused of fraud.  He then stunned the nation when he resigned during a trip to Japan.  Revelations that Fujimori secretly held Japanese citizenship outraged the populace, since he could not be extradited to face corruption charges.  Eventually he ended up in Chile to pursue his political ambitions.  There he was arrested and sentenced to 25 years in prison.  He was recently pardoned, after serving only 12 years, as he is suffering from cancer.  The pardon caused outrage, once again.  Despite Fujimori’s crimes against humanity, he did some good things for the economy, which continues to thrive.  Their economy is dependent on its many commodities, but prices do fluctuate with the world markets.  They are the world’s second largest producer of silver and copper. They are the sixth largest producer of gold; mining 162 tons of gold a year.  Peru’s coastal waters provide for excellent fishing grounds.  Fish and agriculture are very important to their growing economy, as are minerals and natural resources.  Tourism continues to contribute more than ever to this nation’s economic growth.

Peruvian Culture

With more than 10,000 years of history, Peru is filled with a great wealth of culture and tradition.  As the oldest civilization in South America, Peru is home to many riches.  Peruvians fully recognize the importance today of their heritage and the value the Andes and the Amazon offer in natural resources and ancient traditions.

Spanish is the official language, along with Quechua and Aymara.  There are 45 other native languages that are spoken as well.  Catholicism is the predominant religion in Peru and is very important in the lives of Peruvians.  Yet they exist peacefully alongside other belief systems including indigenous beliefs, with shamans and medicine men playing important roles.

The coca plant (the same one used to make cocaine) has been used for thousands of years in the Andean world.  It is used for its medicinal properties and religious significance.  Coca leaves, which are brewed in tea, are particularly effective against altitude sickness, which is helpful at high elevations.

Since pre-Hispanic times, music and dance have played vital roles in Peruvian society.  Ancient Peruvians used seashells and reeds, along with animal bones, to produce sounds.  Weaving is another prominent art form in Peru.  It is believed that every form of weaving known today, was invented by the Peruvians.  It is estimated it takes somewhere between 500 to 600 hours to spin, dye and weave a traditional poncho.  They are typically given as gifts to one who enters adulthood and it is expected to last them a lifetime.

In Cuzco, Peruvian history is displayed in the architecture.  Here you will find Spanish, colonial style churches and dwellings built directly on top of their old Incan stone temples.

Why Visit Peru?

Peru, being home to amazing biodiversity, is one of the most unique and colorful places to visit on the planet.  Peru has 25,000 plant species, it ranks first in the world in distinct fish species, second for species of birds and third for amphibians and mammals.  It is home to 12 UNESCO world heritage sites, including the famous Machu Picchu that was recently deemed one of the Seven New Wonders of the World.  It was uncovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham and today displays the pride and complexity of the ancient Inca civilization as one of the most popular tourist destinations. The stone work, masterfully constructed to be seismically stable, is one of the mysteries of this ancient site.

Peru is also home to numerous natural wonders, including Rainbow Mountain and the Painted Hills, where mineral deposits color the landscape like a rainbow. The Cerro Blanco sand dune, located in the south of Peru, is the highest in the world.  Peru’s Nazca Lines, are a collection of more than 70, giant, human and animal geoglyphs.  There are 10,000 lines, some of them are up to 30 miles long and it remains one of the world’s biggest, archeological mysteries that was never even discovered until man took flight.  The Andes, the beautiful coastlines, deserts, the Amazon basin and rivers, and Lake Titicaca are all great reasons to visit Peru.  However, it may just be worth a visit there for the gastronomy alone; it is one of the best cuisines in all the world.

Peruvian Cuisine

The diversity of Peru’s agricultural production comes from its microclimates and varied geography.  Peru’s multiple cultures along with the brilliance of her chefs, have enriched the cuisine to the point of it being recognized as one of the best in the world.  Gastronomy has become such an important element in the lives of Peruvians, it is part of the national identity.  The cuisine of Peru is both ancient and modern.  It is a fusion of the indigenous population along with contributions of immigrants from Europe, (mainly Spain, Italy and Germany), Asia (China and Japan) and West Africa.   Imagine a cuisine where there are the over 3800 varieties of potatoes.  Corn is available in every color, shape and size, along with rich grains, like quinoa.  We certainly can’t forget the abundant seafood, especially their amazing ceviche, available all along the coast.  High in the Andean region, cuy (guinea pig) and alpaca, are popular sources of meat.  It is, however, the native aji chilies, pureed into amazing sauces, that just might be their most delicious contribution.  The flavors of Peruvian cuisine are bold, rich, and spicy.  Yet they can be subtle and complex, as well.  You will certainly want to enjoy the amazing flavors of this cuisine with their famous pisco sour; Peru’s national drink.

So let’s enjoy a Peruvian Meal:

The Menu

Starter

Peruvian Ceviche (Peru’s National Dish)

Main Dish

Split Roasted Chicken (Pollo a la Brasa)

Served with

Two Peruvian Sauces ( Aji Verde & Aji de Huacatay)

Dessert

Caramel Meringue Parfait (Suspiro de Limena)

We set the scene with the colors of the flag; red and white.  We placed dolls, hand crafted by natives, to represent the Incan empire, a photo of the magnificent Machu Picchu, a yellow aji pepper, silver and gold coins to represent their wealth, potatoes, a rope, with knots, representing the ancient system of record keeping, called quipus, a penguin statue (yes they have penguins in Peru), and palm fronds to represent the Amazon rain forest.  Finally, a soccer ball was added, as it is their national sport.

Our first course was ceviche; the national dish of Peru.  Ceviche is so loved and is part of its national heritage.  It actually has its own holiday on June 28^th of each year.  This ceviche was one of the best we have ever had.  It was unique in that, besides the delectable seabass, it had sweet potatoes and giant kernels of toasted corn.  It was flavored with aji peppers, red onion and a citrusy flavored marinade, made with fresh lemon and lime.  The ceviche was served with the marinade, in the tradition of cevicherias and is called, leche de tigre or “tigers milk.”

For the main course we had their famous, pollo a la brasa.  This dish is loved in Peru but may be more famous in the USA.  It just may be the best chicken ever.  It was a split, roasted chicken, lightly seasoned with vinegar, cumin and pepper.  It was tender and succulent.  But it’s the sauces, for which the Peruvians are so famous, and into which you dip the bites of chicken, that make the dish.  The two sauces we had were, aji verde and aji de huacatay,  (which was my favorite.)  Both sauces are phenomenal and the dishes you can use them on are endless.  The aji verde is very common and flavored with aji paste, chilies, cilantro, lime, garlic, oil, cheese and mayo, all blended together.  The aji de huacatay is also made with cilantro, aji paste, garlic, and oil but has the addition of huacatay paste, which can be found in your Latin market.  Huacatay is a fresh herb, that tastes somewhere between basil and mint.  It is sometimes called black mint and is related to the marigold and tarragon families.  These sauces were off the charts, amazing.  We actually did not have a side dish, but potatoes, cooked anyway you like, would be a great accompaniment  and totally authentic.

For dessert we enjoyed suspiro de limena, which is a caramel meringue, parfait that is exceptionally sweet and delicious.  The name of the dessert, literally translated means, “the sigh of a Lima lady.”  I think that pretty much sums it up.

After our feast, we took our pisco sours, (made with Peruvian pisco, as the base liquor and lime, which makes up the sour, along with bitters, egg whites and a simple syrup,) to enjoy, as we watched Wild Peru, by National Geographic.  This film highlights the amazing biodiversity of the land and sea of Peru.  Did you know you can swim with pink dolphins there?  By the way, Peru also has a national holiday, in honor of the cocktail, pisco sour, which happens the first Saturday of every February.

I leave you with my favorite Peruvian Proverb:

“It is better to prevent than cure.”

Until next time

Warmest regards,

Darlene Longacre

Craving even more?  Be sure to join the culinary and cultural journey around the world so you don’t miss a thing,  it’s free,  You can also follow me on Instagram, Facebook ,  Pinterest and youtube to follow along our journey.

Montenegro means, “Black Mountain.”  The name is fitting, as much of the land is covered with dark, mountain forests that appear black from a distance.  This small, Balkan country located in southeastern Europe has many neighbors: Serbia to the northeast, Kosovo to the east, Albania to the southeast, Croatia to the west and Bosnia and Herzegovina to the northwest.  Montenegro also has a magnificent border along the Adriatic coastline which boasts 117 beautiful beaches and several charmed island villages.

Montenegro has recently been listed as the hottest new tourist destination on many top travel sites.  The country features many outdoor activities and about 60 percent of it is more than 1000 meters (3,280 feet) above sea level.  Winter snow sports, such as skiing and snowboarding, are very popular, along with climbing, in the warmer months.  The mountains include some of the most rugged terrain in all of Europe.  Of course all water sports are available along the beautiful Adriatic Sea, along with white water rafting in the clean and glorious rivers including through the breathtaking, Tara Canyon, the second deepest in the world, after the Grand Canyon.

Montenegro has a rich history, dating back to the Iron Age, when the Illyrians were the first known people to inhabit the region.  By 1000 BC, the Illyrian culture had spread across most of the Balkan region.  The Romans came next and established the Province of Dalmatia, which included what is now Montenegro.  The most important Roman town in the region was Doclea, where archeological finds indicate it was a central area for trade.  At the decline of the Roman Empire, Montenegro was on the dividing line between the Roman Empire and the Byzantine Empire and was therefore split.  After many battles and changes of rule and power, large portions of the region fell under the control of the Ottoman Empire.  It remained under the Ottomans from 1496 to 1878, although Montenegro had a unique autonomy with the Ottoman Empire.  A battle occurred on May 1, 1858, when a Montenegrin army of 7,500 defeated over 15,000 Ottomans.  This forced Montenegro’s independence in 1878, although only briefly.  This important victory is immortalized in song and literature.

During World War I, Montenegro was occupied by Austria-Hungary and then became part of Yugoslavia.  After the dissolution of Yugoslavia and much turmoil in the region, Serbia and Montenegro formed a union under the Belgrade Agreement.  This agreement allowed for a referendum on the independence of Montenegro in three years.  On May 21, 2006, a vote for independence was held resulting in a 55% threshold, which narrowly passed by a mere 2300 votes.  It is this date in May that is celebrated as the new Independence Day in Montenegro.

The official language there is Montenegrin, which is the same name they call the people.  Serbian, Bosnian, Croatian and Albanian are also spoken. The population is diverse and a mix of all the neighboring countries, with the majority being Montenegrin and Serbian.  Tourism, steel and aluminum production and food processing, represent the countries major industries. Serbian Orthodox Christianity is the most popular religion today, however Muslim is second, followed by Albanian Catholics.  Religious institutions have guaranteed rights and are separate from the state.  Its crossroads of diversity over the centuries have allowed for a unique and peaceful existence between Muslim and Christian people.

Montenegro has numerous heritage sites, ranging from the pre-Romanesque, Gothic to the Baroque periods.  The coastal region is known for its many religious monuments.  It is home to medieval monasteries, with walls that are decorated with thousands of square meters of frescos.  Montenegro’s largest city and capital is Podgorica.  Along with the former royal capital, Centinje, these are two very important city centers for both culture and art.  Montenegro was the first country in the world to have a national printing house that was set up in Cetinje, back in 1493.  The equipment was brought in from Venetia.  The first south Slavic book was printed in 1494 (Oktoih.)  Several medieval manuscripts, dating from the 13^th century, are housed in Montenegrin monasteries.

As we look into the cuisine of Montenegro, it is largely influenced by region and by history, making for a delicious combination.  Generally speaking, the food has an emphasis on fresh, local vegetables, quality meat and seafood and of course, features the amazing olive oil for which the region is known.  Influences come from Turkish, Greek and Italian cuisines.  Italy, most notably influenced the dry-cured ham, similar to prosciutto, called prsut, from the small town of Njegusi.  This has a special flavor imparted because of the way the winds sweep over it while the meat while it is drying.  It is considered the national meat of Montenegro.  This small town is also known for its soft cheese that goes along perfectly with the prsut.  Cheese in oil is another popular treat that goes amazing well with figs, prosciutto and Montenegrin bread.

Seafood is popular all along the Adriatic coast, just as it is for its neighbor, Croatia.  Black risotto, made with squid ink, is a traditional dish, as is white or red buzara, which we made for our Croatia meal.  Grilled octopus is especially popular in salads.  Gavice, are small fishes that are floured and then fried and served headless, as a snack along the seaside.  They also have a unique way of drying fish, known as fresh air and sunshine drying.  After the fish are scaled, grilled and laid out in the hot sun, they are dipped daily in water from the sea.  When the drying process is complete, they are smoked and ready to eat.  The delicacy is stored in paper bags.  It is especially savored in winter when it is boiled and served with vegetables.

For the meat eaters, there are many choices; minced meats called cevapi, which are shaped like sausages and pljeskavica, which are shaped like burgers but are known to be humongous. The most popular meat dish however is called sac. The meat can be goat, veal or lamb and is slow roasted in ashes under an iron dome.  It is the cooking method that makes the meat especially tender.  The meat is often served alongside vegetables that are cooked with it, like potatoes and carrots.  Meat is often prepared with the use of kaimac; a cheese that is made from sheep’s milk and makes the meat very juicy and tender.

Another unique culinary technique is the way they sometimes cook chicken.  They salt a whole chicken and then place it into the body cavity of a lamb, which is roasted on a turnspit.  The chicken will also roast and be infused with the flavor of the lamb.  Some say it is the best chicken ever.

You may want to enjoy your meal with some spirits.  Wine is especially popular.  Their red is made from the vranac grape and krstac is a dry, popular, white wine.  Rakia is a grape vodka and loved throughout the region.  It has a very high alcohol content, so consume wisely.  Niksicko beer has been produced since 1896 and is their most popular.

So let’s enjoy a Montenegrin meal:

The Menu

Starter

Njeguski Prsut (Dry Cured Ham) & Njeguski sir (Cheese& Olives)

Salad

Sopska Salatu (Cucumber, Tomato, Pepper and Cheese Salad)

Main Course

Brav u Mlijeku (Lamb Cooked in Milk)

Dessert

Gibanica (Cheese and Fruit-filled Pastry)

We set the table with the colors of the Montenegrin flag; red and gold.  We decorated with sea shells, to represent the Adriatic Sea and also with the two headed eagle; their coat of arms.   We began with a toast of red wine and said, “Zivjeli” which is “Cheers” in Montenegrin.  Our first course was a chacuterie platter of dry, cured ham, soft brined sheep’s cheese and black olives.  This is one of my favorite ways to begin a meal and is popular in many countries.

Next was the sopska salad, pronounced “shopska.”  This is a very popular salad throughout the Balkans.  This version was made with heirloom cherry tomatoes, fresh bell peppers, cucumber and topped with copious amounts of farmer’s cheese.  It was dressed with an excellent, extra virgin olive oil and apple cider vinegar.  It could easily be a lovely lunch meal on its own with fresh, baked bread and a glass of wine.

For the main course, we savored the lamb cooked in milk.  The lamb, cooked with hearty root vegetables, was absolutely tender and perfectly seasoned with a touch of fennel seed.  (The milk really does work as a wonderful tenderizer.)  Garnished with parsley, this was a satisfying and delicious main course.  The red wine paired very nicely with the richness of the lamb.

For dessert, gibanica, a rich pastry, with cheese, apricot and raspberry fillings, was served.  This is a decadent dessert that was topped with confectioners’ sugar and a few fresh berries.  A hot cup of strong coffee was the perfect complement for this dessert.

The people of the Balkans are known to be incredibly hospitable.  If you are invited to their home, the gate or door will be wide open, in anticipation of your arrival.  It would be customary to take a gift, such as a bottle of wine or some chocolates.  There is also an unwritten code of chivalry that is the result of its long warrior history.  It stipulates that to deserve the true respect of the people, a person has to show virtues of integrity, dignity, humility, self-sacrifice for a just cause, respect for others and bravery.

As we say goodbye to this little gem called Montenegro, I leave you with what the English romantic poet, Lord Byron, once said about it.  “At the birth of the planet the most beautiful encounter between land and sea must have been on the Montenegrin coast.”  This is certainly why an exclusive island area called Sveti Sefan, has been chosen by Sophia Loren, Sylvester Stallone and Queen Elizabeth II, as their “go to” vacation spot.  Montenegro’s allure awaits.

Until next time,

Warmest regards,

Darlene

The name Monaco comes from the Phocaean Greek colony, back in the sixth century B.C.  The Ligurians called it Monoikos which means “single house.”  It may stem from an ancient Greek myth, whereby Hercules passed through the area and turned the other gods away.  As a result, the temple of Hercules was constructed there.  Because it was the only temple in the land, the city was called Monoikos.

Monaco today is the most densely populated principality in the world, with about 19,000 people per kilometer.   Monaco is the second smallest country in the world, (Vatican City is the smallest.)  It is so small you can walk across the entire country in less than one hour.  Its total area is just a bit over one square mile.   It is surrounded on three sides by France, Italy is just a few kilometers away and on its southern border is the stunningly beautiful, Mediterranean Sea.  Just the name, Monaco, conjures up the images of royalty, a place for the rich and famous, yacht lined harbors and fast sport cars.

Monaco has the oldest ruling family in Europe.  It has been ruled by the Grimaldi family since gaining independence from the Republic of Genoa, in 1297.  It is run as a constitutional monarchy.  As recently as 2002, a treaty was signed with France allowing Monaco to remain an independent nation, even if the family stops producing heirs.

During a difficult monetary time in Monaco’s past, Princess Caroline established gambling casinos to prevent the ruling family from falling into bankruptcy.  The famous Casino de Monte-Carlo was opened in 1863.  The revenue from the casino brought in so much money that they quit charging their citizens income tax in 1869.  The casino has been featured in three James Bond films.  Interestingly, the citizens of Monaco are not allowed to gamble or visit the casino.  The government put the law in place so they do not gamble away their riches.  Monaco today remains a tax haven.  It is true there is no income tax but there is a nearly 20 percent value added tax on goods and services.  Corporations pay about 1/3 of their profits in tax.  The country still generates plenty of revenue from the casino as well as tourism, banking and financial industries.  Hollywood also has a love affair with Monaco, as over 50 films have been based there.  Film, radio and television are also important revenue generators for the country.

Monaco gets the prize for the most police per capita, which explains the very low crime rate. They also have the highest life expectancy in the world, at 90 years of age.  Not surprisingly, it has the most millionaires and billionaires per capita, as well.  Monaco really doesn’t have much in the way of natural resources, other than its oceans, but Monaco’s GDP is a staggering $153,115, one of the highest in world.

The population of Monaco is just over 38,000, however only about one-fifth of the population are natives.  The largest ethnicity is French, followed by Italians and a mix of others after that.  The natives are called Monegasque and the other residents are called Monacoian.  One problem they have stems from a growing population and limited space, so they have actually grown Monaco some 20 percent by reclaiming land from the sea.  There is no unemployment in Monaco, in fact during the busy season, they bring in workers from nearby France and Italy to accommodate the crowds.  Societe des Badins de Mer (SBM) is the country’s biggest employer.  It runs the majority of Monaco’s tourism activities.

The official language is French, but Italian, English and Monegasque are also spoken.  The sole currency is the euro, due to its relationship with France.  Although Monaco is not formally part of the European Union, it does participate in some of the policies.  France is also responsible for Monaco’s military defense.

Monaco was really put into the world spotlight when the American actress, Grace Kelly, married Prince Rainier, in 1956.  It is estimated that 30 million watched the occasion on television.  The actress met the Prince at a photo shoot, during the 1955 Cannes Film Festival.  Despite marrying a prince, in keeping with tradition, Kelly’s family had to pay the royal family a two million dollar dowry.  The couple had three children, two girls and one boy and the boy is now the current ruler of the land.  When Prince Albert II was born, the country celebrated with a 21 gun salute and the day after was declared a national holiday.  Everyone was treated to free champagne, which is the national drink of Monaco.

Monaco is well known for the most prestigious Formula One race, with its narrow streets, tight corners, elevation changes and the famous tunnel.  The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the oldest in the circuit, holding races since 1929.  The famous Brazilian racer, Ayrton Senna, won six times in his short career (more than any other driver in history.)  Whenever the Grand Prix is in town, the Hotel de Paris sells close to 2000 bottles of champagne.  The hotel’s wine cellar, dating back to 1874, is one of the most legendary cellars in the world, with over 450,000 bottles and 55 different types of bubbly.

Although you might think that Monaco is set up for jet setters, the truth is, they don’t even have an airport, only heliports. The closest airport is in Nice, France.  You can, of course, also get there by car, rail or yacht.  Each year, in September, they host the Monaco Yacht Show, where companies exhibit the best of the best of the super yachts.   Last year, the average length of these super yachts was 154 feet.

The Musee Oceanographique is one of the largest and most prestigious oceanographic museums in the world.  Its aquarium contains nearly 6000 specimens.  Aside from what the museum holds, the building itself is a masterpiece and one of the main focal points of Monaco. It is perched on the side of the cliffs of the Rock of Monaco and rises up from the sea, 85 meters high.  The architecture was inspired by the marine world.  It is a “must-see” tourist attraction while in Monaco.  Of course, you will also want to visit the Prince’s Palace.  The original fortress was built in 1215 and throughout the centuries it has been transformed into one of the most luxurious residences in the world, in the Louis XIV style.  The palace has galleries, an impressive car collection and everything else you might imagine a house of royalty would have.

As we look into the cuisine of this tiny nation, the heavy influences are clearly French and Italian.  Generally speaking, it is a Mediterranean diet consisting mainly of seafood, fresh vegetables and olive oil, as the most common ingredients.  Despite their small size, there are a few dishes that are considered to be Monegasque.  It is a toss-up for the national dish, between  a  street food called socca, which is a chickpea crepe, and barbagiuans, which are deep fried savory pastries, stuffed with chard, spinach, ricotta, onion and sometimes pumpkin.  The word barbagiuan means “Uncle John” and is always eaten on November 19, Monaco’s National Day.   Stocafi also pops up as a national dish and is a dish made with cod, as the main ingredient; simmered in a spicy tomato and herb sauce.  There is also a drink called a “Monaco,” which is a beer with seven-up and a splash of grenadine poured over ice;  a sweet refreshing drink on a warm summer day.

So let’s enjoy a Monegasque Meal

The Menu

Apertif

Socca  (Chickpea Crepe)

Soup

Soupe au Pistou (Vegetable Soup)

Main Course

Salade de Fruit de Mer (Seafood Salad)

Dessert

Prince Albert fraise-Mille Feuille (Pastry with Strawberry and Cream)

We set the scene at our table in red and white décor, as those are the colors of Monaco. There much beloved soccer team, AS Monaco, wears red and white uniforms and are referred to as Les Rouge et Blanc (the red and whites.) The flag is also red and white, exactly the same as Indonesia’s flag, except Indonesia’s flag is a bit wider.  Carnations adorned the table as well, as it is the national flower of Monaco.  Of course we added in our racing flags, since we absolutely love Formula One and hope to make it to the Grand Prix of Monaco one of these years.

We began with “a la votre” which means “to your health” and we clinked our plastic cups filled with ice and a light rose’ wine. We each had a hot serving of socca, a delicious chickpea crepe, flavored with a touch of rosemary.   It was wonderful on its own, but we imagined it could be flavored with all sorts of different herbs and would also make a lovely pizza base as well.  The plastic cups of wine is how socca is served on the streets of Monaco.

Next was a hearty and savory vegetable soup, called soupe au pistou.   It was topped with a delicious garnish, made of tomato, herbs, parmesan cheese, garlic and olive oil.  The garnish made this pretty ordinary vegetable soup into and extraordinary one.  We loved it served with a nice warm baguette.

For the main course we reveled in the most extravagant seafood salad; lobster, crab, mussels, scallops, shrimp and calamari, served on a bed of fresh baby greens.  The salad had a light balsamic dressing and was served with lemon.  The salad was also garnished with a few kalamata olives, the perfect addition of a salty finish. We enjoyed this amazing salad with a little bubbly.  Did I mention champagne is the national drink of Monaco?

For dessert we had the light and delicious fraise millefeuille, named after Prince Albert, as it is said to be his favorite.  He is onto something.  It is a light pastry topped with cream and strawberries and pairs perfectly with champagne.

After our feast, we sat down and watched an old classic racing movie, Gran Prix, starring James Garner that was filmed in Monaco.  The race is held at the end of May, which is right around the corner.  Could this be our year?  At the very least, we will have a wonderful meal to enjoy while watching it.

I leave you with a quote from the late Grace Kelly.

“I would like to be remembered as someone who accomplished useful deeds, and who was a kind and loving person.  I would like to leave the memory of a human being with a correct attitude and who did her best to help others.”

Until next time

Warmest regards,

Darlene

Craving more?  Be sure to join the culinary and cultural journey around the world so you don't miss a thing.  It's free and you can also follow me on Instagram, Facebook ,  Pinterest and youtube to follow along our journey.

My affection for Mexico and its people started long ago, when I would participate with my church youth group to visit orphanages in Tijuana, Mexico.  I remember our shock and disbelief after crossing the border, seeing people living in run down, shanty towns along the riverbed, just steps from the US border.  The area was called Cartolandia or (cardboardland.)  We brought food and clothing for them and while there we helped build an outbuilding and painted the school rooms.  Sometimes we simply played with the children in the orphanage.  What I remember most was, despite the conditions, unimaginable by any standard, the kids’ smiles would melt your heart.  They were so joyful and full of hope.  It was a humbling experience that will always stay with me.

Growing up during my high school years in San Diego, California, my trips to Mexico were often.  We would jump in the car and drive over the border to Puerto Nuevo for lobster dinners which were incredibly inexpensive.  The very fresh lobsters were usually deep-fried, served with drawn butter, rice, beans, and warm, fresh, homemade tortillas.  I can still taste them!

When I first met my husband Dan, he asked me to accompany him as a dental assistant on a trip to provide free dentistry to a remote area in Mexico along with a group of doctors and dentists.  He chartered a small plane and hired a pilot.  We landed on a dirt strip somewhere in the interior of Mexico.  Once we landed, there was only one concrete building and a line of people as far as the eye could see. The people in line were dressed in their Sunday best.  The only procedure we could provide them was to do tooth extractions, as there were no compressors to run a drill.  One by one these people would come in, point to a tooth, it was inspected and removed, if need be.  I remember one lady came in that had only one remaining front tooth but she opened her mouth and pointed to it.  The amazing part was, in order to thank us for extracting their tooth, they brought food.  All types of things, from fruit to tortillas, breads, tamales, moles and some things that we weren’t quite sure about.  They would wait to watch us try what they had brought, so as to see our delight when we took a bite.  It was a remarkable interaction and is another memory I still treasure.  Perhaps these experiences, all those years ago are when the seeds were planted for InternationalCuisine.com.

Mexico is a place my husband and I visited often for vacations.  The Twin Dolphin Hotel was one of our favorite places for a quick weekend getaway.  We often went three or four times a year.  One of my husband’s favorite pastimes was deep sea fishing.  Cabo San Lucas is world renowned for their sport fishing.  Over the years, he caught countless billfish, and nearly always practiced catch and release.  Once in a great while, usually when he was introducing someone new to the sport, they would chose to keep their first marlin catch.  We would have it smoked by an old gentleman, famous for his smoked marlin, who was always around the dock.  It makes me hungry just thinking about it.  It was outstanding.  My husband often invited the staff at the hotel to fish with him.  Carlos, the chef, and Marco, the head honcho of the dining room, were two that loved to go with him.  The best part of these friendships that formed over the years was being invited to their homes to join their families, for a special meal after the fishing day.  Once again, their way to say thank you was in the form of sharing a meal.

Dan and I were married at the Twin Dolphin Hotel in November 1988.  It was a spur of the moment wedding that was planned in just 24 hours.  I have many stories about the wonderful day, but I will have to save them for another time.

Another hobby my husband had for a time, was hunting.  My deal was, he could only shoot things that we would eat.  We met a man named Alfredo who was very well connected, a wealthy Mexican of Italian descent.  He became a very dear friend, through the years.  We teased him because of the badge that he carried with him.  Whomever he showed it to, they would just let us pass, no questions asked.  We asked if it was his Emperor of Mexico badge.  It was through this relationship that we were able to provide the most benefit to the Mexican people through dentistry.  My husband was honored from the Secretary of the Navy of Mexico, for his efforts.

Alfredo was born on a ranch on the outskirts of a small town called Ojos Negros.  We visited the ranch many times.  It had a beautiful lake, great for duck hunting.  The ranch also had cattle grazing and hunting for deer in the hills was common.   At the small ranch house, I had some of the best meals of my life.  One time, they made me a taco.  They just scooped the meat out of a pot sitting in the middle of the table, right onto homemade tortillas.  I went on and on, raving that it was the best taco I had ever had.  To be honest, it was the best taco I ever had, even though, to my surprise, they later pulled a baby goat head out of the pot.

Our years of traveling in Mexico with Alfredo always seemed to revolve around food.  One fishing trip, we flew up and down both coasts of Baja.  One stop, in Mulege, was for the pig races.  There, you would bet on a pig but the winner of the race would be the prize for dinner.  The carnitas, I recall, were delicious.

Alfredo would come to the states to have my husband do his dentistry.  When he came, he would usually bring us dried abalone.  I must admit it was one of my most favorite things on the planet.  It was chewy and yet tender and delicious in a way that words cannot describe.  Often times he would bring them in a paper bag.  Dan would ask me how many he brought.  I confess, sometimes I wasn’t quite truthful.  If he brought six, I would say four.  Later my husband would find me hiding in a corner with a pocket knife and chewing on a delectable morsel of dried abalone.  He would simply ask, “What are you doing?”  So in the end, he really did know.  I have tried numerous times to replicate this amazing dried abalone, without success.  If anyone knows how to do it, I would love to know.  I am sure they were sun-dried.

We met some friends and their relatives that owned a winery, called La Cetto.  One time we were invited there for a feast after they culled a deer.  The winery was something you would expect to find in Napa Valley, Italy or France.  Rows and rows of beautiful grape vines, perfectly manicured.  The main winery building was styled like an Italian Villa, with a spectacular blend of stone, wood, and iron.  It was gorgeous.  The winery made special blends which we were able to try, some straight from their prized, aged barrels.  They also raised the Mexican Peso horses.  It was a real treat to watch their expert riders show off their special gait.

One of the craziest things we experienced in Mexico was the “La Carrera Pan Americana” race.  It is a rally car race that started in the south, Oaxaca (where I ate some delicious little fried crickets.)  It ended in the north, Neuvo Laredo, a border town near Texas.  I went as part of the crew and my husband was a race car driver.  There were 13 of us in total that went on that journey, right through the heart of Mexico.  Seeing the spectacular town squares, called zocalas as they would fill up with thousands of people to see the race cars and get the autograph of the drivers, was incredible.  The intricately carved stone churches were always the most prominent structure in the zocola.  It was a place in each town with a true sense of community;  a place where people gathered to socialize and enjoy good times, food, and drink.  I think all communities should have a zocola, just for that purpose.

The race lasted for seven days, each night in a different city.  We often stayed in old stone nunneries that were converted into hotels.  We were in Zacatacas for the “Day of the Dead” celebration.  Our hotel was an incredible structure built around a very old, bullfighting ring.  We marched through the town drinking tequila that the Federal Policia were supplying.  The Federales sponsored the race and warned us it was tradition for them to get the gringos drunk so a Mexican could win the race.  My husband and his good friend Bill, after numerous trials and tribulations, finished third in their class.  The race went through some amazing historic towns Oaxaca, Tehuacan, Puebla, Mexico City, Morelia, Aguascalientes and Zacatecas.  I will never forget the excitement it generated in each town.

There are so many more stories to tell, as we have traveled all over that beautiful country.  In the Yucatan region of Cancun, we visited the ancient ruins of Chechen Itza and Tulum.  As well as the tropical islands of Cozumel and Isla Mujeres (the island of fertility.)  Once, after a great day of fishing, the captain took us to the small uninhabited Island of Contoy.  We enjoyed an unforgettable fish fry along with fresh ceviche made from the fish we caught along the way.  The white sand beaches, with the lush flora and fauna, against the crystal clear aquamarine sea, were a sight to behold.  Also called Paradise Island, it was the ultimate place to experience a meal.

Now, after all this reminiscing about Mexico, I wanted to make what is considered to be the national dish.  It is actually a sauce called mole (pronounced moe-lay.)  There are numerous Mexican mole recipes and types of sauces.  One type is often times referred to as a chocolate sauce, which doesn’t begin to describe it.  It is wonderfully complex, with awesome depth of flavor and spice.  Yes, it does have chocolate in it, but also chilies, nuts and spices, that all contribute to its depth.

Mexican Poblano Mole

After I made the sauce, I asked my neighbor Gracie to come over and show us how to make homemade tortillas.  Just pressing them and cooking them is an art form.  We made a little video to show you.  (This is my first video attempt, so go easy on me.)  I hope you enjoy it.  A big thank you to my movie star Gracie for helping me! Be sure to give us a thumbs up and make a comment on youtube after you watch it.

Afterwards we made Chicken Mole Enchiladas.  Magnifico!

What I love most about Mexico, aside from the sheer beauty of the country, is its people.  They have such a sense of family and camaraderie.  Food plays a critical role in all of Mexican life.  I am always struck by how complex these recipes are.  I have come to determine that food preparation is an integral part of the family function.  Everybody pitches in to help with the task at hand.  Meal preparation is a precious time to gather, to catch up with one another, and enjoy each other’s company.  I have been blessed to be accepted into many Mexican families’ lives and for that, I am most grateful.

Until next time,

Warmest regards,

Darlene

Libya gets its name from the ancient Greeks who called the people who lived on the land, Libu. The land itself was called Libya.  Located in Maghreb region of North Africa, Libya is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, Egypt to the east, Sudan to the southeast, Chad and Niger to the south and Algeria and Tunisia to the west.  A large portion of Libya is part of the Sahara dessert.

Some of the first known inhabitants were Berber tribes from the late Bronze Age.  Phoenicians then colonized the eastern portion of Libya in the seventh century B.C. and called it Cyrenaica, while the Greeks colonized the western portion and called it Tripolitania.  In the first century B.C., the area became part of the Roman Empire, until it was invaded by Arab forces where the empire met its demise.  In the early 16^th century, Libya became part of the Ottoman Empire.  Following hostilities between Italy and Turkey in 1911, Italy occupied Tripoli and then took over most of the land by 1914.  Libya was involved in fierce desert fighting during World War II, and Tripoli fell in 1943 when it came under Allied Administration control, after the war.  Libya finally became the United Kingdom of Libya when it was granted full independence on December 24, 1951.

King Idris was the first and only king of Libya.  He had helped the Allies by providing tribes to fight against the Axis of Evil, as well as offering valuable intelligence on German and Italian troop movements during the war.  He was responsible for uniting Libya.  During his reign, oil was discovered in 1958.  In the late 1960s while he was in Greece for medical treatment, and in failing health, he was deposed by a military coup d’état, led by Muammar Gaddafi.  The monarchy was abolished in September of 1969 and a republic was proclaimed.  Idris went into exile in Egypt, where he later died.  Despite most Libyans being born after King Idris’ reign, many demonstrators opposing Gaddafi during the Revolution would hold up pictures of the king to exalt their revered, overthrown leader.  The tri-colored flag that was used during the era of his monarchy was also used during the revolution and later re-adopted by the National Transitional Council as the official flag of Libya.

Muammar Gaddafi ruled Libya as an Islamic Arabic Socialist “Mass State.”  Colonel Gaddafi aligned himself with other dictators and fostered anti-western terrorism.  He was highly controversial and an extremely divisive world figure.  He had particularly hostile relationships with the USA and the United Kingdom.  He was blamed for the Lockerbie bombing of Pan-Am Flight 103 which killed 270 civilians.  Gaddafi accepted responsibility for the bombing and paid compensation to the families of the victims, although he maintained he had never given the order for the attack, which was carried out by two Libyan nationals.  Gaddafi ruled from 1969 until the Arab Spring Revolution when he was captured and killed in 2011, by rebel forces.   At the time of the Arab Spring, there was widespread dissatisfaction with corruption and the unemployment rate had soared to about 30 %.  The UN and NATO were very much involved with the demise of Ghaddafi and supported the rebel forces as well as an interim government known as the National Transitional Council.  Unfortunately there was not a good plan for what happened next.

Today, after the revolution, Libya is seeking to find its way through some very difficult circumstances.  In 2012, there was a deadly attack on the US embassy in Benghazi, where four Americans, including the Ambassador, lost their lives.  There have been over a thousand terrorist attacks in Libya since the fall of Gaddafi.  There is a fierce power struggle happening and ISIS/ ISIL now have a stronghold there, along with several other terrorist groups.  There are basically two governments that do not see eye to eye, so in essence there is no government.  The people who fought for freedom in the revolution, certainly did not prepare for this type of fight.  Many report that life is far worse in Libya after the fall of Gaddafi but they remain committed to fight for a free Libya.  During Gaddafi’s reign, the people received free health care, free education, free housing, free electricity and very cheap gas, yet the people were not free.  A fight for freedom and human rights is what the Arab Spring was all about.

There are many places in Libya which hold historical significance.  There are many UNESCO sites, like Tripoli’s ruins of “Leptis Magna”, where the Emperor of Rome, who was Libyan, was born.  Some say it is one of the best preserved ruins of that era and was once considered the most beautiful Roman city.  The site is large with imposing public monuments.  It has a harbor, a market place, houses, shops and residential districts.  Another impressive site in Libya is the old town of Ghadames.  This is one of the oldest, traditional, pre-Saharan cities, also known as the “Pearl of the Desert” for its stark white façade.  Built vertically, in an oasis, its ground floor was used to store supplies, another floor was for the family and then there were overhanging alleyways which created an underground network of passageways.  At the top were open air terraces that were reserved for the women.  Other UNESCO sites in Libya include the Site of Cyrene, a colony of the Greeks of Thera, with over 1000 years of history.  The Site of Sabratha, is a Phoenician trading post that was rebuilt in the second and third centuries AD.  The oldest site is the Rock Art Sites of Tadrart Acacus, located on the border with Algeria.  This site has thousands of cave paintings dating from 12,000 BC to 100 AD.  Unfortunately, this site has been struck by vandals and while UNESCO, along with key Libyan and international partners, are doing what they can to preserve the Libyan cultural, heritage site, it is a challenge in the midst of chaos and war.

As we look into the cuisine of Libya, it is a culmination of Mediterranean, North Africa and Middle Eastern cuisines.  The Italians, who only ruled briefly, left Libya with pasta, which is still loved today, especially in the west; while rice is a staple in the east.  Dried beans and grains are a fundamental part of the food of Libya.  Chickpeas are often cooked with tomato and meat sauces for couscous and often added to pasta sauce.  A thick, very spicy soup, known as Arabian soup, is widely popular, usually containing lamb or chicken.  Pork consumption and alcohol are forbidden, as Libya is nearly one hundred percent Muslim, (mostly Sunni).  The capital city of Tripoli contributes the Mediterranean influence and many seafood dishes abound.  Southern Libya leans toward Arab and Berber cuisine.  Fruits and vegetables are found in the many open air markets. There, figs, dates, oranges, apricots, watermelon and olives are abundant.  Bazin, or bazeen, is considered to be the national dish of Libya and consists of a rounded, smooth dome made of flour and water that is placed in the middle of the dish, then surrounded by tomato sauce made with mutton and generously seasoned, along with hard boiled eggs for garnish.  The dish is eaten with the right hand only, using the bazin to scoop the sauce.   

So let’s experience a Libyan meal.

The Menu

Starter

M’Battan (Fried Potato with Minced Meat)

Salad

Salata Arabiya bil Tufah Albaladi (Tomato, Cucumber, Olive and Apple Salad)

Main Course

Shakshuka (Eggs Poached in Tomato Sauce)

Served with Khubzit Howsh (Libyan Bread)

Dessert

Batikh (Watermelon with Date Molasses & Olives)

We set the table with the colors of the re-adopted, tri-colored flag; red, black and green.  (The flag during Gaddafi’s regime was a solid green, the only one in the world that had only one color.)  We placed an oil can on the table to represent this oil rich nation (80% of their GDP.)  We added citrus fruits and dates, as they grow there abundantly.  To signify their love for racing we added a formula one car and a horse, as both car racing and horse racing are important events in Libya.  The Tripoli Grand Prix was held there beginning in 1925, until 1940, during the Italian rule.  An Arab coffee pot and little Arabian cups, rounded out the setting.

Our first course was a Libyan specialty, called m’battan.  These little treats were fried potatoes, stuffed with flavored, minced meat; a combination of lamb and beef.  They were kind of like little tacos with the potato serving as the taco shell.  This was a meat and potato lovers’ delight.

Next we enjoyed a delicious salad called, Salata Arabiya bil Tufah Albaladi.  It was made with tomato, cucumber and olives but the delicious twist for this Libyan salad was the apple.  Even the dressing was made with apple and it was simply scrumptious.  This salad is often served with a can of tuna and would make a lovely, light lunch, on its own.

For the main course, we had shakshuka, a poached egg dish in a spicy tomato sauce.  (Eggs for dinner, such a concept.)  They were awesome and we scooped up those perfectly cooked, poached eggs with an “easy to make” flat bread, similar to  a pita, called Khubzit Howsh.  This meal could be enjoyed any time of day.  We savored it!

For dessert, we had a simple slice of watermelon.  This is a much treasured fruit, especially in the scorching, hot months in Libya.  Watermelons are found at road side stands and at open air markets.  We served the watermelon ice cold, with a few bits of salty olive and a little sweet and savory, date molasses.  A nice refreshing way to end our Libyan meal.

As we say goodbye to Libya, in the midst of all that is happening across the world, we can only hope that somehow, peace, love and freedom, will ultimately prevail.

I leave you with a few Libyan proverbs:

Murder rectifies nothing.

Maliciously acquired gold never lasts long.

And

Silence is the door of consent.

Until next time.

Warmest regards,

Darlene

Nippon and Nihon is what the Japanese call their country, which means “Land of the Rising Sun.” The sun has huge significance to the Japanese. Legend attributes the creation of Japan to the sun goddess from whom the emperors were descended. The first was Jimmu, who ascended the throne in 660 BC. This is considered to be the founding of Japan and is celebrated as National Foundation Day on February 11, each year. Japan boasts the longest reigning monarchy in the world.

The first contact with the West happened around 1542, when a Portuguese ship veered off course and arrived in Japanese waters. Spanish, Dutch and English traders followed however, the Shoguns (Japanese warlords) prohibited all trade with foreign countries for fear of Christianity taking hold in Japan. Shinto and Buddhism are the two main religions in Japan, Shinto is traced back to the beginning of Japanese culture and Buddhism was introduced to Japan through Korea, around the sixth century.

Japan is an archipelago of 6852 islands, located in the Pacific Ocean in East Asia. Japan’s four largest Islands are Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku which makes up about 97 percent of Japan’s land area. Japan’s neighbors are China, North and South Korea, Russia and Taiwan, however none of them share a land border. Japan is known as “the ring of fire”, because of her many volcanoes. Earthquakes are common and on occasion, they have created catastrophic tsunamis; the most recent was in March 2011, which followed a 9.0 earthquake which caused massive devastation. Japan’s terrain is 70 percent mountainous, so most of the population resides in areas near the coast. Japan’s most iconic volcano and highest peak is Fujisan, or Mount Fuji. This mountain has been worshiped as a sacred place for centuries and has had an immeasurable impact on Japanese culture; an icon recognized across the globe.

Japan is the tenth largest country in the world by population, yet the economy ranks number three, behind the United States, (US) and China. Tokyo (the capital city) is the largest metropolitan area in the world, with over 38 million people and one of the lowest crime rates of any major city. Trains and subways are the most common mode of transportation in Tokyo. Because of the crowds during rush hour, train workers called “oshiya”, are stationed to push people into the train to make room for everyone. This is especially true in winter time, when people are wearing bulky coats. Westerners may oft times feel their personal space is being violated. However, the Japanese are used to pushing and shoving to get around this crowded city and it should not be taken personally. The Japanese people are actually known to be very considerate. For example, if they have even the slightest sniffle they would wear a mask to ensure no one around them would get their germs. And in the midst of a crowded subway station, if one were to drop something from their bag, it is not uncommon for a stranger to pick it up and follow the person for blocks to return it.

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is home to the Tsukiji Market, the largest fish market in the world, where more fish and seafood are sold than anywhere else on the planet. It employs some 60,000 workers and is a popular tourist destination. The market opens at 3 am and auctions, especially for the big fish, begin about 5:30 am. The most expensive tuna ever sold came from there and went for $735,000 US dollars. Tokyo is also famous for its high-end shopping (especially in Ginza), robust tourism and nightlife. Bars in Tokyo are very popular and many sell their customers a full size bottle of alcohol with setups for mixers. At the end of the evening, if the guests have not finished the bottle, it will be labeled with their name and saved for them until next time. Geisha girls (a role once played by men) which means artist or entertainer, can also be found in Japanese nightlife. They are dressed in traditional kimonos, their hair in a bun with flowers and chop sticks and their face, painted white with makeup to soften their skin tone. They often play the shamisen, a three stringed banjo like instrument, (notable for the classic Japanese sound), they dance, sing and provide conversation. There is controversy as to whether Geishas were considered prostitutes, as Japanese men would often stray from their wives to seek the company of a Geisha. This was not necessarily considered a breach of the marriage. Today they primarily provide a source of entertainment to tourists.

Japan has many UNESCO World heritage sites, highlighting shrines, temples and castles. The Horyuji Temple is the world’s oldest surviving wooden structure and is the oldest temple in the country. The city of Kyoto was the Imperial capital of Japan for more than 1000 years. It is home to thousands of classical Buddhist temples, gardens, Imperial palaces, Shinto Shrines and traditional Japanese structures. Kyoto is considered to be where the fading Geisha tradition is the strongest today.

Leading up to World War II, Japan was not happy with restrictions imposed on her by the US, especially the curtailment of oil supplies, upon which Japan was dependent. When negotiations failed, Japan decided to make a surprise attack on the United States Naval Base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The surprise bombing, on December 7, 1941, preceded any declaration of war by Japan and killed more than 2800 Americans, destroying naval ships, fighter planes and infrastructure. (Only 55 Japanese were killed during the invasion and but one person captured.) It was a pivotal point in history, which brought the US into World War II. The US declared war against Japan the next day. Four days after Pearl Harbor, Germany and Italy declared war on the United States and World War II became a reality.

The World War ended in 1945, shortly after the US dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and Japan surrendered. (Kyoto was originally considered a target by the US but was removed and replaced with Nagasaki.) The casualties were enormous, killing nearly 250,000 people, mostly civilians and leaving thousands more to suffer the devastating effects of radiation exposure. The Hiroshima Genbaku Dome, also a UNESCO world heritage site, was one of only a very few structures that survived the blast. The role of the bombings in Japan’s surrender and the United States’ justification for dropping them, has been, and will continue to be, an ethical topic of debate. After the war, Japan recovered to become a prominent economic power and an ally of the US and remains so today.

The population of Japan is 98 percent Japanese and there is almost no immigration. The language they speak is Japanese and since World War II, English has been taught as a secondary language. They have four different writing systems; romaji, katakana, hiragana, and kanji. They have just shy of a 100 percent literacy rate. Scholastic studies are taken very seriously in Japan in order to excel on the college entrance exam. Once in college, study is far less intense and one can be assured of securing a job in the workforce upon graduation. Japanese employees are very loyal to their employers and job hopping is a rarity.

The Japanese people are known for their amazing hospitality and politeness. Bowing is how people greet in Japan and there is a whole complex etiquette to it. How deep the bow is made and how long it lasts, is taken very seriously and has implications about the social pecking order. Typically, a small nod of the head is casual and informal. However, bowing is also used to thank, apologize and ask for a favor. In intimate settings, you may witness displays of bowing where each party strives to get lower and pay even more respect to the other person. This reverent exchange may involve hissing and end up with the bowers kneeling deeply, and their heads touching the ground. As you might imagine, the Western handshake took some getting used to for the Japanese business man.

There are many rules of etiquette in Japan. When entering a home, traditional Japanese restaurant or temple, one is expected to remove their shoes in the area called the “genkan.” You typically would then step up, after your shoes are removed and wear only your socks. Slip-ons are very common in Japan, as shoes may be removed multiple times in a day. Slippers can be worn anywhere indoors except when entering the room with the tatami floor (a mat used for eating). In that case, only socks or bare feet are permitted. Punctuality is another expectation and you should actually arrive a few minutes early to be considered polite. One is also expected to bring a gift for the host, the more expensive, the more honorable. Casaba melons often fit the bill and can cost from $35 to $100+ per melon.

The tea ceremony plays an important role in Japanese life and culture; a ritual that is cherished on special occasions and holidays. A ceremonial preparation and presentation of matcha, or powdered green tea, is performed with reverence and grace. This formal tea event, called a chaji, can last up to four hours and include a full-course meal. It is typically performed in a Japanese tea house, built solely for this purpose. Another traditional ritual is the Japanese bath, called “sento”. There are public bathhouses all over Japan. Usually segregated by gender, they are as much a place to socialize as to cleanse. A Japanese bath, whether public or in the home, relies on a person soaping and cleansing before entering the bath. The bath is just for soaking and temperatures may range from scalding to chilling. In a public bathhouse, tattoos are often verboten and full nudity is expected. At home, the bath is filled to the brim and runs over into a floor drain as a person gets into the bath. The same bath water is used for all family members.

Japanese cuisine is world renowned. The first foreign influence likely came from China, around 300 B.C., when the Japanese learned to cultivate rice. Chopsticks, soy sauce and tofu also came from China. In the 700s, Buddhism led to a ban on eating meat. The national dish, sushi (raw fish with rice) became popular as a result of the ban. The Dutch introduced corn, potatoes, and sweet potatoes and the Portuguese introduced tempura or batter frying. Beef returned to the table after a ban of nearly 1000 years and today, Japan is famous for the world’s best beef, known as Kobe beef. Green tea is the national drink and served with every meal. Sake, a fermented, rice wine, served warm, is a popular adult beverage as well as beer or “biru", and other spirits.

The Japanese have dishes that are uniquely theirs, such as sushi and sashimi, which both rely on freshly caught fish. The Japanese eat about 150 lbs. of fish per person, annually. Their healthful diet likely accounts for being at the top of the world’s longevity list. Rice and noodles are the two primary staples of the diet. Rice is either boiled or steamed and served at every meal. Noodles come in many varieties but soba, udon and ramen are the most loved. Dishes in a single pot (nabemeno) are also popular throughout the country. Shabu-Shabu, is a thinly sliced beef with vegetables, cooked in a broth and then dipped in flavorful sauces. Sukiyaki, made of chicken or beef, along with vegetables and tofu is also very wide spread. Soy Sauce, miso and tofu are ubiquitous. Other common ingredients in Japanese cuisine are bamboo shoots, ginger, sesame seed, daikon radish, wasabi, and seaweed. The Japanese are known for using the absolute freshest ingredients which are bought at the market to be served that day.

One of the most impressive aspects of Japanese cuisine is the culinary presentation. Extreme care and skill is required to arrange a Japanese plate, creating a visual masterpiece to match its flavor. Sushi chefs train for years to master their craft. Sashimi may take the shape of a delicate rose and sushi may be decorated with spirals of thinly cut carrots, edible flowers and imaginative cucumber shapes. Fugu (blowfish) is considered a true delicacy and fugu chefs train intensively for about 11 years. They must eat their own fish in order to pass the training and be certified to prepare it for the public. The result from a wrong cut is instant death, as the fish contains a lethal neurotoxin. Preparation and presentation is serious business in Japan.

So let’s eat Japanese style:

The Menu
Soup
Miso Soup

Starter
Sashimi Platter

Soft Shell Crab Hand Roll

Rainbow Roll

Main Course
Shabu-Shabu (Hot Pot)

Dessert
Fresh Fruit with Green Tea Ice Cream

We set our mat on the floor and decorated with cherry blossoms, considered the national flower of Japan, as the cherry tree has held lessons for Japanese culture dating back centuries. The significance of the cherry blossom represents the fragility and beauty of life. It serves as a visual reminder of how precious and precarious life can be. We also decorated with Buddha as well as some very special, Japanese dolls, dressed in their traditional kimonos that were given to me by my sister who spent six months in Japan many years ago.

Before we started, we wiped our hands with a hot towel, called an “oshibori” in Japanese. Then we poured warm sake from the flask into our small ceramic cups and said a toast, “Kampai” (Cheers). It is customary that you do not pour your own drink; you pour for others and they pour for you and when they do, you should hold your glass up for them to receive.

The first course was the traditional miso soup, a fermented soybean paste that is mixed in a dashi or seaweed and bonito flake broth, with tofu and scallions; a light and wonderful way to ready the palate for what is to come. Before indulging we said, “Itadakimasu” or “Let’s eat”.

Next, was a sashimi platter of raw salmon and tuna, served on our beautiful Japanese dishware. This was served with shoyu (soy sauce) and wasabi (green horseradish), along with daikon (white radish) and pickled ginger. I have loved sushi and sashimi ever since my sister returned from Japan back in the late 70s. It was long before sushi was trendy in the US and we had to go to one small place in Santa Ana, California to find it at that time. That is where my love affair began with Japanese cuisine. Of course later on, sushi bars became a craze and one could be found on nearly every corner. When sashimi is fresh, it literally melts in your mouth, there is absolutely no fishy taste at all. I know many shy away from it because it is raw. I can only say, I am so sorry for what you are missing. By the way, my all-favorite sashimi is halibut, which is served thinly sliced with a ponzu sauce. I could not obtain it for my own sushi platter but the salmon and tuna were delicious. If you decide to make this or the rainbow roll, use only sashimi grade fish.

Next was the soft shell crab, hand roll. Sushi comes in a few different forms. One is a piece of fish on top of a small ball of vinegared rice, usually with a bit of wasabi in between the fish and the rice. This style is called nigirizushi. Next, is a roll, called makizushi, where the ingredients are rolled up in a piece of nori (seaweed) and then cut into pieces. Lastly, is a handroll, called temaki, which is like a small ice cream cone shape. Temaki, or the handroll, is the easiest of them all to make. You may recall I mentioned that sushi chefs require years of training. Well, don’t expect to be an expert overnight but have some fun and try it anyway. This handroll is not raw fish, it is fried, soft shell crab with cucumber, carrot and rice wrapped in seaweed. What makes the roll so delicious is the sauce, made with Japanese mayonnaise and sirachi (aka rooster sauce).

Up next was the rainbow roll. This is makizushi style sushi and takes a bit of practice. I managed to do an inside-out roll with rice on the outside of the roll and the fish on top. I alternated the salmon and tuna with avocado slices. Inside the roll was crab, and cucumber. The roll was then cut into bite size pieces and drizzled with a sweet, soy based eel sauce; simply fantastic.

For the main course we enjoyed the traditional shabu-shabu. This is a fun dish to serve and super easy since basically your guests cook their own food in the broth that is boiling table side. Very thin slices of meat along with an array of vegetables are prepared, along with udon noodles. The meat and vegetables are added to the broth then removed when cooked and dipped into an assortment of delicious sauces. We enjoyed three different ones: a hot chili sauce, a citrusy ponzu sauce and an amazing miso-sesame sauce. The noodles are usually eaten last to soak up what is left of the dashi broth. By the way, the louder you slurp your noodles the better. It is a way to show appreciation for the food and it is customary in Japan to slurp noodles and soups. An ice cold Sapporo beer went perfectly with the shabu-shabu. Kirin beer is another of my Japanese favorites.

For dessert, we simply placed pieces of orange and kiwi alongside green tea ice cream. It was a light and delightful way to end our Japanese feast.

Now we are off to sing Karaoke; a favorite pastime of the Japanese. When we come back, we will chill out and watch “The Last Samurai”, one of my favorite films starring Tom Cruise, which gives a peak into Japanese culture and history.

Until next time,
Sayonara (goodbye)
Darlene

Finland gets its name from early Roman references to the people there known as “Fenni” who occupied lands north of the Baltic Sea back in the early first century. Finns refer to themselves as “Soumalaiset” and their country as “Soumi.” This probably comes from the word “suo”, a Finnish expression for a bog or swamp. Finland is often called the land of a thousand lakes. There are nearly 200,000 lakes in Finland. The largest, Saimaa, is the fourth largest lake in Europe. Eighty six percent of the land is covered with forests including pine, spruce and birch trees, making it the largest forested area and biggest producer of wood in all of Europe. Most of the people live in the south, in the capital city of Helsinki, which is also the largest city in Finland.

Finland‘s neighbors are Russia to the east, the Gulf of Finland and Estonia to the south, the Gulf of Bothnia and Sweden to the west, and Norway to the northwest. The Arctic Circle makes up a quarter of her territory.

Finland became an independent nation in 1917. Prior to that Finland had been governed by Sweden and Russia. The people are primarily Finns, with a small, Swedish speaking minority along the coast and a tiny Lapp (Sami) group in the north as well as a few Roms (or Gypsies). The population is small with only 5.4 million people and it has one of the lowest population densities in the world; only 16 people per square km. It is, however, considered to be a welfare state with possibly the highest quality of life in the world. The country consistently ranks highest for best, small country, best, high-income country and best, educated country. In an attempt to encourage risk taking and entrepreneurship, Finland has a National Failure Day. October 13th is the day to free yourself from your failures…. What a concept! Interestingly, most of the Nordic countries rank high, perhaps the quality of life is better when one must get close to stay warm, enjoy a hot bowl of hearty stew and a cozy fire.

The temperature in Finland varies greatly between seasons yet they do have four distinct ones. Finland is long from north to south, which means the weather can vary drastically in different parts of the country. The amount of sunlight changes with the seasons and the latitude. In summer, the daylight hours are long, lasting almost 20 hours a day in the south. In the northernmost part of Finland, the sun does not set at all in the early summer. For this reason, Finland is sometimes referred to as the land of the midnight sun. The Finnish winter is cold and usually the entire country is under a permanent snow cover. The winters are also much darker; the south gets only about six hours of daylight and in the far north, the sun will not rise at all for several weeks. This is known as the polar night.

Near a small town called Rovaniemi, in Lapland, is where you can find Santa Claus and his village. The main post office there receives more than a half a million cards, letters and packages each year. If you would like to send a letter to Santa, the address is:
Santa Claus Main post Office Fl-96930 Artic Circle, FINLAND

The Lapp people, also known as Sami people, are indigenous to Lapland, in the northern part of Finland. They can trace their roots in Finland back more than 2000 years. The government has gone to great lengths to keep their cultural identity alive. The Lapp’s were a nomadic people, known for their hunting and fishing skills, but mostly as reindeer herders. Today, many make their living in the tourism industry, as well as in farming. Five percent still make their living as reindeer herders. The area of Lapland, although very cold in winter, is a tourist destination. It is one of the best places on earth to witness one of the seven natural wonders of the world; the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. This phenomenon is most visible between August and April, when charged particles from the sun are blown towards the earth by the solar winds. Since the earth's magnetic field is weaker at either pole, some particles enter the earth's atmosphere and collide with gas particles. These collisions emit light that we perceive as the dancing lights of the north (and the south.) Magnificent colors; turquoise, orange, crimson reds, yellows, greens and purples, light up the sky in incredible brilliance. The colors shift and morph in wavy curtains like a lava lamp. Peak season for the lights is in the winter months, where you can stay in a glass, thermal igloo or an ice igloo to experience this amazing marvel. Seeing the Northern Lights is on many people’s bucket list and Finland is one of the most spectacular places to behold them.

Sports are very important to the Finns and per capita they hold the record for the most Olympic medals won in both the winter and summer games. They also produce some amazing race car drivers in both rally racing (on closed off roads) and the ultimate series of Formula One. Three Finns have won the World Championship in Formula One. They are Mika Hakkinen, Keke Rosberg and Kimi Raikkonen. Perhaps their success can be partially attributed to their cold winters. Ice car racing is a passion and obviously learning car control on ice and snow could be an advantage. By the way when driving in Finland it is mandatory that you turn your headlights on, day or night. Also if you get a ticket, you will be fined based on your income, along with the severity of the offense. One very wealthy Finn was fined 170,000 Euros for driving 80 km in a 40 km zone, OUCH! The Finns also get the record for hosting world championships. They have all kinds of contests, some of which are quite amusing, for instance: wife carrying, mobile phone throwing (this is likely due to Nokia being a Finnish company), mosquito catching, swamp soccer, boot throwing and air guitar, to name a few. Speaking of music, they also have the largest number of heavy metal, rock bands per capita, more than anywhere else.

Kids do not start school in Finland until they are seven years old and it is not mandatory to give a student a grade until they are in the eighth grade. Teachers are paid to spend at least two hours a week building lesson plans and assessing student progress. They are taught Finnish, the official language in school but many learn English, Swedish, Estonian and Russian as well. Finland has freedom of religion but the majority of Finns are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. Parents decide on the religion for their children and when they turn 18 they are free to choose for themselves. If there is a disagreement between the parents regarding religion, the mother gets to decide how the child will be raised before the age of one.

Finland’s growing season is short and the cuisine is influenced by available local ingredients. In summer, berries are plentiful in the forest and it is a favorite past time to pick them and make jams to freeze for winter. Blueberries, loganberries and the most exquisite, cloudberries, are some of the favorites. Fish is also abundant with herring and salmon being very popular. Normally fish is served with potatoes, beets and of course, rye bread. They eat hearty in Finland, especially in winter, enjoying all sorts of stews and pies made with beef, pork or fish and filled with root vegetables and cabbage. Reindeer, served with mashed potatoes and topped with loganberries, is one of their most wholesome meals. Reindeer meat is high in B-12, Omega-3, Omega-6 and is very lean and healthy.

The Finns have come a long way in changing the poor reputation of their cuisine. The prime minister of Italy, named Bescolini, made a remark that Finland had the worst cuisine in the world, even worse than England! In 2008, New York held an International pizza contest in which Finland’s Kotipizza chain, won first place. Kotipizza's motto is "Pizza, Love & Understanding." Koti, in Finnish, translates to "home." The prize went to their smoked reindeer pizza, which they proudly named the Bescolini, to mock his disparaging remark.

So let’s eat a delicious Finnish meal:

The Menu
Starter
Karjalanpiirakat with Munovoi (Karelian pasties & Egg Butter)

Main
Yrttijuustolla taytetty lohi (Cheese and herb stuffed salmon)

Served with
Keitetyt Perunat (New Potatoes with Smoked Herring)

and Maustekrukku (Finnish pickles)

Dessert
Rikkaat Ritarit AKA Rich Knights (French toast with berry topping and whipped cream)

We decorated the table in the colors of the Finnish flag; blue and white. The blue color on the flag denotes the lakes and skies of Finland and the white color represents the snowy winters of this Nordic country. We used a checkered flag and a small race car to honor their car racing heroes. We, of course, had to include Santa Claus in our decor, since that is where he lives and added a brown bear, the national animal that makes the forests their home. Mushroom salt and pepper shakers completed the table setting as mushroom foraging is another loved pastime there.

We began the meal with a toast of vodka, a beloved drink in Finland. We said,”Kippis,” which means “Cheers” in Finnish. The first course is considered the national dish and called Karjalanpiirakat (Karelian Pasties.) It was named after a poet from the fifteenth century. The dough is made from rye flour and stuffed with a delicious creamy rice (or it could also be stuffed with a potato mixture) and baked. It is then served with egg butter on top. Egg butter is a mixture of butter and chopped, hard boiled eggs. It is one of the most popular innovations in Finnish cuisine. Yum!

The main course, was an amazing cheese and herb stuffed salmon. It was delicious. We served it with perfectly tender, baby, new potatoes and smoked herring, instead of pickled. To be honest, I am not a big fan of pickled herring but I love this smoked herring preparation! We toasted with another shot of Vodka and this time we said “Terveydeksi,” which means “To your health.” On the side we served Finnish pickled cucumbers; the taste both sweet and sour with dill; an herb used often in their cuisine.

For dessert, we served rich knights. This is basically a French toast, smothered with whipped cream and fresh berries. (If you just have the toast without the berries and cream they are called poor knights.) We savored them with a robust cup of coffee. The Finns are number one in many categories including consumption of coffee, so it was the perfect ending to our delicious, Finnish meal. Who knows maybe even Bescolini will give it another try!

After diner, we were off to the sauna; by far the number one thing to do in Finland! Statistically, every household has one. A little switch of birch branches is used to splash cool water on yourself as you steam. Another toast waited for us and this time we said “Pohjanmaan Kautta” or “Bottoms Up.” After the sauna, we jumped into a cool lake and alas declared we were Finnish.

Until next time,
Warmest regards,
Darlene

Bon Jour! France gets her name from the people, the “Franks” that occupied the area known as lower Rhineland. The name “Francia” was used to identify several territorial areas until it became the Kingdom of the French Sovereign. The official name today is the French Republic (Republique Francaise.) It became a republic in 1792 after centuries of royal rule. This occurred as a result of the French Revolution. (The subject of the classic movie, Les Miserables.) The revolution began with the storming of the Bastille fortress (prison) on July 14, 1789. This is an event celebrated all over France every year known as, Bastille Day.

The French often refer to their country as “L’hexagone,” due to her six-sided, hexagonal shape. With over 200,000 square miles, France is the largest, western European nation, covering five percent of the entire European continent. Due to her shape, she has many neighbors; Andorra, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, Spain and Switzerland. She is also surrounded by water; the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the English Channel to the north. The country has a diverse topography, with large mountain ranges like the Alps and the Pyrenees forming natural borders. Mont Blanc in the Alps is the tallest mountain in all of Europe. There are also four main rivers, called “fleuves,” in the country: the Loire, the Rhone, the Garonne and most famously in the Paris area, the Seine. France is generally considered to have a temperate climate, with the Mediterranean portion considered sub-tropical. The country is made up of 22 regions, each playing an important role in the nation’s rich history.

France has the second largest economy in the Euro zone, behind Germany. They are the largest exporter of luxury goods in the world with Cartier, Chanel, Hermes and Louis Vuitton, being some of the top brands. Their other exports are not so glamorous but still very important to the economy: exports include aircraft, food, chemicals, machinery, iron, steel, motor vehicles and pharmaceuticals, to name a few. And then of course they are known for fine wines and they make the only real “champagne.” All other imitations must be labeled, sparkling wine. The climate and topography allows France to be self-sufficient with regard to food and wine production and fishing and farming are very important, especially in the rural areas. Open air markets can be found throughout the country and are a big part of their cuisine, which relies on the freshness and availability of the local ingredients.

The population in France is diverse and the country still retains 15 territories overseas. The country’s colonial past is one reason there are more than five million people of Arab and African descent that call France home. France has the second largest population in all of Europe, again behind Germany. Eighty percent of the population is Roman Catholic and 10 percent are Muslim. The balance is a mixture of Christians, Jews and other. The official language is French with several dialects spoken in the different regions of the country. French is the second most widespread language worldwide, after English. It is the official language of 29 countries and is known as a Romance language. Even if you don’t understand a word, it is a beautiful language to listen to; full of passion and emotion.

Paris is the capital city and known as the “City of Lights.” The previous name was “La Ville- Lumiere,” accredited to Paris as being the intellectual center during the Age of Enlightenment. But it also was literally illuminated, back in 1860, by 56,000 gas lamps. Today all the city’s famous landmarks are illuminated. Paris is home to the Eiffel tower, which was built as the entrance arch to the World’s Fair in 1889 and in honor of the French Revolution centennial. It has become one of the most recognized monuments in the world. Paris is also home to the Louvre, the largest and most visited art museum in the entire world. The Louvre, built originally as a fortress in 1190, was turned into a royal palace where Napoleon himself hung the prized Mona Lisa in his private bedroom. The Louvre was turned into a public museum in 1793 with just 537 paintings. Today it holds over 380,000 pieces in total, 35,000 of which are considered priceless masterpieces and antiques. Art is everywhere, with museums holding special works from renowned artists, like Monet, Degas and Pisarro, that gave rise to the Impressionism movement. One of the first Gothic cathedrals ever built was Notre Dame de Paris. Another treasure, the Basilica Sacre-Coeur, was built in a Roman Byzantine style and overlooks all of Paris. Then of course there is Champs Elysees, the most prestigious and famous boulevard in all of Paris with its iconic arch. This is the ceremonial finish line for the world famous Tour de France bicycle race. These are just a few examples of the Gothic, Romanesque, Rococo and neo classical influences found in buildings and churches throughout the city. One can walk down the streets of Paris and be surprised by one architectural marvel after another. Often seeing a magnificent building from down the street, upon arrival you would learn, it was just another department store.

It is not a surprise that France is the most popular tourist destination in the world. Last year, in 2014, she hosted 84.7 million visitors. There is a certain charm there, perhaps it is due to the over 9000 different open terrace cafes in Paris alone. One could actually go to a different one every day and not hit them all for 25 years! Or sit down and have a croissant with cafe au lait or a famous baguette at one of the French bakeries, or enjoy a special meal at one of the many Michelin starred restaurants (the highest of ratings.) There is no doubt that French cuisine is known throughout the world. In fact, UNESCO lists French Gastronomy as the one of the world’s “intangible cultural heritage.” Needless to say, I was a bit intimidated to choose a meal to represent this country. Nearly every region in France has unbelievable specialties from which to choose. Add in wine, champagne, or even cognac to the mix and how could one properly make a meal to represent the country? The truth is you can’t. Every town and region deserves recognition of their specialties, in their own right.

I decided to take my cues from Chef Julia Child. She was the one that made French cooking accessible to the masses. I can still hear her distinctive voice proclaiming, “Bon Appétit” when finishing any one of the delicious recipes she shared with the world. She was probably the first chef to do a cooking show on television and I still enjoy watching them. There was a movie made called Julie and Julia, about a girl who decided to cook every recipe from Julia Child’s cookbook called “Mastering the Art of French Cooking.” Meryl Streep won an Oscar for her role as Julia Child. It is funny that when I tell people that I am cooking a meal from every nation on earth, I often get the response “Oh like that movie Julie and Julia.”

So let’s eat some French cuisine:

The Menu
Starter
Escargot Bourguignon (Snails from Burgundy)

Soupe à l'oignon (French Onion Soup)

Main
Sole Meuniére (Pan Fried Dover Sole)

Served with Carottes Glacées (Glazed Carrots)

Salade Nicoise (Nicoise Salad)

Pre-Dessert
Plateau de Fromage (Cheese Plate)

Dessert
Crème Brûlée (Vanilla Bean Custard with Caramel Top)

We set the table with symbols of France; the Eiffel tower and a rooster, their national animal, (even though Napoleon had concern that it was not a strong enough symbol for France.) It is the main ingredient in one of France’s famous dishes made using an aged rooster, called Coq au Vin. For additional décor, we placed the national flower, the Iris and used a café chalkboard sign to represent the quaintness of the many open air cafés. Then we put on some French music, Edith Piaf, “La Vie en Rose,” to set the mood.

We began with a glass of champagne and toasted “Sante A la Votre” pronounced sahn-tay/ ah la vo-tre which means, Bottoms up or Cheers in French. We then served the amazing escargot (aka, snails.) I know many may be squeamish about eating a snail but really you have no idea what you are missing. If you just imagine you are eating a mushroom, you can get past the thought of it and then, it is pure heaven. It was served in the traditional way with just a garlic and herb, butter sauce and a French baguette, impossible to beat!

Next was the famous, French onion soup. This can be served along with a baguette as a meal by itself. We enjoyed small portions of this rich, cheesy, onion soup. The top has “croutes” which are toasted baguette covered with a combination of melted cheeses. It was superb. The rich, beef based broth pairs beautifully with any good French red wine.

For the main course I chose Sole Meuniere, a pan fried, Dover sole that was served with glazed carrots, fresh from the garden. The sole meuniere was the first true French meal Julia Child had when she arrived in Rouen France, and while eating it, she had an epiphany. This was the meal that changed Julia and the whole world for that matter. This is what she had to say about that meal:
“Rouen is famous for its duck dishes, but after consulting the waiter, Paul, had decided to order sole meuniere. It arrived whole: a large, flat Dover sole that was perfectly browned in a sputtering butter sauce with a sprinkling of chopped parsley on top. The waiter carefully placed the platter in front of us, stepped back and said, “Bon Appétit!”
“I closed my eyes and inhaled the rising perfume. Then I lifted a forkful of fish to my mouth, took a bite, and chewed slowly. The flesh of the sole was delicate, with a light but distinct taste of the ocean that blended marvelously with the browned butter. I chewed slowly and swallowed. It was a morsel of perfection.”
She later said “That lunch in Rouen….. It was the most exciting meal of my life.”

We concur Julia, the fish was out of this world. It is a testament to simple recipes and oh yes, sputtering, browned butter! The carrots were sweet and savory and added the perfect visual contrast on the plate, next to the sole.

A Salade Nicoise was also served. The salad gets its name from the olives, a small black olive that comes from the region of Nice. This salad is beautiful to behold with its colorful blend of ingredients: tuna, eggs, artichoke hearts, tomatoes, potato and green beans along with the simple dressing made from olive oil, lemon and shallots. It was lovely.

Plateau de fromage was up next. It is a cheese plate served on an artist’s palate to represent the French Impressionism era. Over 1000 different types of cheese are made in France, the most traditional being the blue/green veined, Roquefort. Ripening takes place in natural caves dating all the way back to the 17th Century. I was thrilled to find some real, imported French cheeses to enjoy. I picked out four; a Roquefort, camembert, brie and a triple cream brie made with wild mushrooms. These were served with a French baguette of course, some honey and a variety of jams. Cheese plates are often times served as a dessert or as an appetizer and are also wonderfully complemented with fresh fruit, such as apple, pear and grapes.

Last but certainly not least, was dessert. There were many choices for this course; crepes, croissants, e’clairs, macarons, soufflés, tarts and the list goes on and on. But this choice was an easy one for me, Crème Brulee, my all-time favorite dessert. The top of the brulee was gently caramelized to a sweet and crunchy crust using a cooking torch. Not a bite was left uneaten. Paired with dessert was a fine, French cognac, with which my guests raised their glasses and said, “Merci beaucoup” meaning, thank you very much.

After dinner we headed outside to work off some calories with a friendly game of Petanque, the sport that perhaps is closest to French hearts. Similar to lawn bowling or bocce ball, the French version is played on a dirt surface, with metallic balls. As an aside, one wonders how the French stay so thin eating this rich and delicious cuisine of theirs. Well, besides playing Petanque, you will see people in France walking at a very quick pace, almost everywhere they go. So “Bon Appétit” indeed!

To be honest I am a little sad to leave this country. Part of me wants to further explore every region and specialty France has to offer, perhaps a new project when I am finished with the rest of the world.

Until then,
Au Revoir France!
Warmest regards,
Darlene

Croatians call their country Hrvatska. Located in southeastern Europe, she is shaped like a boomerang. Her neighbors are Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Italy is just to the west, across the Adriatic Sea. She is home to over 1200 islands, only 66 of which are inhabited. Now referred to as the “New Riviera”, Croatia’s rich history and turbulent past has resulted in a fascinating and alluring country.

The country has had many invaders throughout history, which have all left a piece of their culture and tradition. Croatia was part of Yugoslavia, up until they gained independence in 1991. Prior to that they were part of the Venetian Empire, the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Ottoman Empire. Today Croats are very patriotic and take pride in preserving their folklore with dance, song and costumes. Most are Roman Catholics and the church plays a large part in the lives of Croatians.

The country has five important regions that are proudly displayed on their coat of arms (and also on their national flag), they are: Croatia, Dubrovnik, Dalmatia, Istria and Slavonia. The language they speak is Croatian, although there are different dialects in the different regions. Ninety percent of the population is Croatian, with the balance being a mix of Serbs, Bosnians, Hungarians, Slovenians, Czechs, and Romanis.

In the northwest, near the capital city of Zagreb, you will find the world’s finest concentration of medieval castles and fortifications. This is where the elite of the Austro-Hungarian Empire chose to retreat, so the castles are built in exquisite Viennese fashion. This is the place you would want to try Štrukli, a delicious cheese pastry, loved all over Croatia.

Wine in Croatia is legendary and how could it not be when it has the Istrian Peninsula, referred to as “Little Tuscany.” The longitude and latitude closely resembles their Italian neighbor. This has been a wine-making region of exceptional notoriety for over five hundred years. The bright sunshine and the fresh, cool breeze off the Adriatic is the perfect environment for grapes.

This is also where, amongst the oak trees, the coveted white truffles are found, using specially trained, truffle sniffing dogs. In fact, they get the prize for the largest white truffle ever discovered, coming in at the size of a football. If you want to try a white truffle, the season is fall. In Croatia the truffle is called tartufi, their earthy flavor is loved on eggs and fresh fuzi pasta, a real gastronomic delicacy.

Then there is the Adriatic coastline known as the Dalmatian Coast, (yes, the dog breed, Dalmatian, comes from Croatia). With over 1200 islands and 3500 miles of coastline and a true Mediterranean climate, each of the inhabited islands has their own unique history and traditions. One island called Pag, is where an aged sheep cheese, called Paski Sir or Pag cheese, is made and served on many charcuterie platters. It is world renown and loved throughout the country. Sometimes the cheese is served with a fig or grape marmalade. Many of the islands are also known for their one thousand year old olive trees. Their olive oil is revered, known for its unique spicy flavor.

The sea itself is the perfect environment for farming mussels, oysters and even blue fin tuna. Seafood is abundant along the entire Dalmatian Coast and it makes up a large portion of the Croatian diet. One dish that is famous from the coastal region is called crni rizot, a black risotto that gets its color from the ink of the cuttlefish. Yachting, sailing and fishing are popular pastimes and the entire area is a favorite amongst tourists.

The country has several UNESCO heritage sites to explore, both natural and historic. They also have 13 items on the list of “Intangible Cultural Heritage” which include: three different types of lace-making, gingerbread creations (colorfully decorated confections usually made in the shape of a heart; a famous tradition in northern Croatia), handmade wooden toys, crafted by men and painted by women, as well as different types of singing, festivals and processions. The town of Dubrovinik is known as the “walled city” and is an UNESCO site which happens to be the fictional metropolis of King’s Landing in the HBO television series, “Game of Thrones.” This is also where the dessert called rožata, a delicious caramel crème flan, was made famous.

Houses are typically small in Croatia, so people love to meet up out and about. The Café Culture is alive and well there. The Croatians are very family oriented, reserving their weekends to nurture those relationships. It is not uncommon for the elderly to live with family in their later years.

When you meet a Croatian, it is typically done with a handshake and direct eye contact and depending on the time of day, a greeting of Dobro jutro (good morning), Dobar dan (good afternoon) and Dobra večer (good evening.) Failure to properly greet is considered a major insult. If you are invited to a Croatians home you should arrive with an odd number of flowers, or a good bottle of wine or some chocolates. A host will usually introduce the women first, then the men. It is likely a prayer will be said before the meal begins and then you should wait until they say “Dobar Tek”, which means, good appetite. Your response should be “hvala” (thanks.) Make sure your first serving is small as they will insist you have a second helping.
The cuisine varies by region, as one would expect and has all the elements of its tradition and the plentiful Mediterranean fares, making Croatia an amazing place to enjoy and discover food.

So let’s eat Croatian:

The Menu
Charcuterie
Pršut (Dry Cured Ham) & Škripavac (Farmers Cheese) with Olives and Salami

Salad
Salata od hobotnice (Octopus Salad)

Main
Skampi Na Buzara (Croatian Shrimp)

Served with
Punjeni (Stuffed Arichoke)

Zagorski Štrukli (Cheese-filled Pastry)

Dessert
Rožata (Caramel Crème Flan)

We set the table with lace and used red and white checkered napkins, as the pattern is prominent in their coat of arms. We decorated with saint candles, as All Saints’ Day is a big celebration in Croatia. Pictures, flowers and gifts are left in the cemeteries to honor their loved ones. We also decorated with purple iris, their national flower and our monster shrimp. We enjoyed the meal eating continental style, fork in the left hand and knife in the right, as would be customary there.

We began the meal with an appetizer plate with prosciutto, cheese, olives and salami. As it turns out, Croatia also has all the right elements, such as the bora, which is the northern wind that perfectly salts and dries meat and salami to perfection. I was able to find a nice farmers cheese to complement the prosciutto but oh, how we longed for their famous Pag cheese. We enjoyed the appetizer plate and the olives were a lovely addition.

Next we had the most outrageous and delicious octopus salad. Honestly, this is the type of food I could eat every day of my life. It was made with perfectly cooked octopus, (strangely they add a wine cork to the water to get it perfectly tender, who knew?) potatoes, red onion, tomatoes and fresh parsley. We dressed it with a simple sprinkling of red wine vinegar, olive oil and lemon and wow, awesome!

For the main course, the next three dishes were served together, family style. We had artichokes, stuffed with flavored bread crumbs and peas. Artichokes are seasonal in Croatia and the small globe type is what you would find there. It was different from the way we normally enjoy an artichoke and perhaps a healthier version, as no butter is used for dipping. We also had the famous Štrukli, cheese pastry. I just had to make it, since it is truly loved there and for good reason. It is extremely filling however, so we just had a small piece and savored the rest as leftovers. The Croatian shrimp, called Skampi Na Buzara, were delicious. Buzara is in reference to the sauce and many things (certainly any type of seafood) can be made with this simple and delicious recipe. We loved the giant shrimp in the simple sauce made of wine, olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, bread crumbs and raisins.

For dessert we had the rožata, an amazing caramel crème flan that was perfect with a nice robust cup of coffee.

Honestly, this country has me so intrigued with its beauty, culture and cuisine. I feel a strong desire to see it and experience it first-hand. Anthony Bourdain said “Croatia is the next big thing” and I think he’s right. You may wonder why I didn’t mention the horrible war they had there in early 1990s? The truth is, that it is behind them now and they don’t like to talk about it; a tragic part of their history, best forgotten.

Until next week, (unless I am in Croatia!)
Warmest Regards,
Darlene

Cape Verde, now known as Cabo Verde, is an archipelago of 10 islands, nine of which are inhabited. When the Portuguese arrived in 1462, they found no one living on the islands. They first landed on the peninsula of the African mainland, which they named, Cape Verde, meaning Green Cape. Today the peninsula is called Cap-Vert, and the islands, which had been known as Cape Verde up until 2013, became Cabo Verde.

Cabo Verde was under Portuguese rule for nearly 500 years. After a war was fought in Guinea –Bissau, with another Portuguese colony on the mainland in 1975, they gained independence. Today they enjoy a stable government and political system, which is a model for other West African countries that do not. African slaves were brought to the Islands by the Portuguese, to work on their plantations and to feed their sailors. The people are considered “Mesticos”, meaning, a mix of African and European origins. Although Portuguese is the official language, most there speak Cabo Verdean Creole, or Kriol.

The Islands have few natural resources and they have suffered from extreme droughts and famine which resulted in massive emigration. There are more Cabo Verdeans living outside the country than inside. Nearly 500,000 Cabo Verdeans are estimated to live in New England, in the United States alone. Others emigrated to Portugal, Netherlands, France, Italy, Mexico, Spain, Canada, Argentina, Brazil. Many more fled to other West African Countries, especially those that speak Portuguese, like Angola and Guinea-Bissau. About 500,000 live on the Islands today with the majority living on the island of Santiago.

Each Island has its own cultural identity, although the northern islands tend to associate with the Portuguese colonizers and the southern islands have a closer affinity with Africa. Each town has a Roman Catholic Church and Catholicism (infused with indigenous beliefs) is the main religion on the islands. Even so, most of the people are not practicing Catholics but they do celebrate numerous Saints’ days, where communities gather for parties and festivities with music, dancing, drinking and food.

Cabo Verde offers free health care to its citizens. The facilities and resources are poor but they are more advanced than most other West African countries. They mainly suffer from infectious and parasitic diseases due to malnutrition and poor sanitation. Thankfully, they have not had any cases of the deadly Ebola outbreak, which is just off their shores. The average life expectancy is only 62 years of age.

The economy there has gone through many ups and downs over the centuries. In the early days, they experienced many pirate raids and then the French also attacked there in 1712. In the 19th century they regained some wealth due to their strategic location on major trade routes between Europe, South America and Africa. For a time the Islands had a coal and submarine cable station and large salt flats. Later, severe drought and famine struck and it wasn’t until after World War II that they began to prosper once again. Many expats, living in other countries, send money “home”, which also helps with the overall economy. Today, they are working on becoming a tourist destination, with several luxury hotels built on the Islands.

Most goods produced in Cabo Verde are based on agriculture, even though only 10 percent of the land is arable. About one-third of Cabo Verdeans are farmers. They produce bananas, corn, beans, sugarcane and coffee, but most of their food needs are imported. There is a large fishing trade as well. Many children follow in their parents’ footsteps and learn a craft at a very young age. People tend to work as long as they are able; it is not uncommon to see seniors working in the fields.

The cuisine, like the people, is a mix mainly of Portuguese and African influences. Of course being a nation of islands, fish and seafood play an important role in the diet. Their national dish is called Cachupa; a stew of hominy, beans, vegetables and whatever else is available to throw in. If it contains meat or fish, it is called Cachupa Rica. Breakfast usually consists of a steamed cornbread called cuscus, served with honey and coffee. The main meal of the day is a large lunch in the mid-afternoon, which is followed later by a light dinner. The drink of choice, particularly among men, is called Grogue; a liquor made of sugar cane. It is said it can make you go blind if you drink it long enough!

So let’s eat:

The Menu
Starter
Caldo Verde (Portuguese Kale Soup)

Main Dish
Polvo a Modo Ze De Lino (Octopus Stew)

Served with
Jagacida (Portuguese Rice)

Cape Verdean Style Salad (Green Salad)

Dessert
Gufong (Fried Pastry)

We decorated our table with the colors of their flag. Red represents economic prosperity, white is for peace, blue is for the Atlantic Ocean that surrounds them, and ten yellow stars represent each of the islands that make up this tiny country. We put on some Cesaria Evora music.  She is known as the Barefoot Diva and Queen of Cape Verdean music called Morna, a national song style like Tango is to Argentina.

We began the meal with an outstanding Portuguese kale soup. Honestly, my husband was a little reluctant because of the name (he is not a huge kale fan) but, after my insistence, he agreed to try it and was blown away. The flavor, especially due to the Linguica sausage, was just awesome. (We ate it for the next several days for lunch and it is now on our favorites list!)

For the main menu, we had a delicious octopus stew that had a bit of kick due to the addition of the habanero pepper. But it really is true that the tomato tames some of the heat and it indeed worked beautifully in this dish. On the side we had a simple green salad; romaine lettuce with some cucumber and tomato, with just a light oil and vinegar dressing. It was perfect along with what the locals call “Jag” Portuguese rice, with more of the Linguica sausage, YUM!

For dessert we had what is called Gufong. It is a simple fried dough on which we drizzled a touch of chocolate syrup. It was perfect, with a cup of tea to end our Cabo Verdean meal.

The people of Cabo Verde are known to be very generous. It is considered rude to eat in public and not offer what you have to those around you. As a result, you won’t normally find them eating in public. They take pride in greeting each other with a handshake and a lengthy discussion about one’s family and health. This occurs every time you greet someone, even if it is twice in the same day. They like to be very physically close when they communicate and hand gestures are commonly used. Like so many other cultures, they show their generosity by providing a meal to a guest. If you ever are invited to dine there, be sure to take a gift to show your appreciation for their hospitality.

As we say goodbye to these tropical islands called Cabo Verde, I leave you with a quote from a previous secretary of state. Perhaps lessons can be learned here.
“Few places demonstrate the promise of Africa better than Cape Verde. Some places have certain aspects that can be comparable. But no place has put it all together, with good governance, transparency, accountability, the rule of law, a democracy that is delivering for its people, lifting them out of poverty, putting them now in a category of middle-income countries of the world.”

And in Kriol
“Ti prosima vez!” Which means, until next time!

Warmest regards,
Darlene

As we journey to Austria, the first image that comes to mind is Julie Andrews twirling on that spectacular, verdant mountain top singing, “the hills are alive…” in the iconic movie “The Sound of Music”. That scene is an incredibly vivid image showcasing the beauty of this small landlocked country. Located in Southern Central Europe, it is just 32,000 square miles, much consisting of the mountainous region of the Eastern Alps. Austria shares borders with eight European countries; Germany, Czech Republic, Italy, Slovenia, Hungary, Switzerland, Slovakia, and Liechtenstein.

Ninety eight percent of the population of Austria is German, which is also their official language. The majority of her people are Roman Catholic, with a small, minority Protestant population. According to Austrian law, any child over the age of fourteen can freely choose his or her religion.

Austria’s capital city of Vienna, located on the banks of the Danube River, was once the political and economic center of the Austro-Hungarian Empire from 1867-1918. What must be known is the significance of the musical innovation spawned there during the 18th century. Vienna was the hub for classical music where musical genius flourished. Masters, such as Ludwig Van Beethoven, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Joseph Haydn, Schubert and Strauss graced this city. Their music was played in one of the most beautiful and ornate concert halls in the world, the Musilverein, in Vienna. It is known to be the "Golden Sound in the Golden Hall," where even today the world’s finest musicians aspire to perform.

Vienna is a city that holds the distinction of having a cuisine specially named in her honor. Today they serve modern traditional Viennese dishes with the principles of nouvelle cuisine called the new Viennese Cuisine or “neve Winer Küche.” Austrian cuisine is different and derived from the Austro-Hungarian Empire, heavily influenced by Hungarian, Czech, Jewish and Italian cuisines.

Austria is home of the unbelievably beautiful ski area of Innsbruck which is famous for its Christmas markets. Every Advent in the historic part of Innsbruck, in front of the famous Golden Roof and surrounded by beautifully preserved medieval facades, you will come across the Old Town Christmas Market. Strolling through the market you will find Christmas ornaments, handicrafts and other winter treats. Traditional dishes such as Kiachln (fried dough pastry) and a mug of Glühwein (mulled wine) will keep you warm while mingling with the locals and making new friends.

Austria also has a wine making tradition where small wine producing estates are not required to have a special license to sell their own wine. This dates back to a decree from 1784. There are as many as 20,000 private vintners making their living selling wine. And Austria is known for her beer as well with many special brews dating back for generations and breweries that dot the country side. They have a tradition of hanging a wreath on the door to let you know that a new batch of brew is available for tasting. In that spirit, the appetizer I chose for our Austrian meal would be commonly served in one of these tasting rooms.

When choosing the meal for Austria I thought it would be easy. I could just cook the items mentioned in Sound of Music’s, “Favorite Things” song and clearly that had to be spot on. Come to find out, there was some poetic license taken in that song. Although schnitzel is considered the national dish of Austria, Austrians would never eat it with noodles, they eat it with potatoes. I suppose there was no creative way to make “potato” rhyme with “schnitzel”. Lucky for us, the crisp apple strudel is in fact a wonderful Viennese and Austrian dessert.

And so here we go, off to a wonderful Austrian meal,’ mahlzeit’, ‘Guten Appetit’,

The Menu

Appetizer
Austrian Liptauer Cheese Served with Austrian Black Bread

Side Salad
Gerkensalat (Cucumber Salad)

Main Course
Wiener Schnitzel 
(Breaded Veal Cutlets)

Kartoffelsalat (Warm Potato Salad)

Dessert
Altwiener Apfelstrudel
Traditional Viennese Apple Strudel

We began with a traditional toast “Prost .” For this meal we chose a full bodied, Viennese style beer. Our meal was eaten Continental style, as would be customary in Austria.

The Liptauer cheese and caraway seeds imbued a unique flavor that would make a wonderful appetizer for any occasion. The main meal, schnitzel with warm potato and cucumber salad, went lovely together. One could use any type of meat to make the schnitzel because there is just something so delicious about breaded and fried anything. The cucumber salad also had a sprinkling of caraway seeds and had an almost sweet and sour flavor.

After our delicious, crisp, apple strudel, we sang “Edelweiss,” which come to find out is not the national anthem of Austria but was written for the movie “The Sound of Music.” The real national Anthem of Austria is called “Land der Berge Land am Strome”. Edelweiss is however, Austria’s national flower.

For me, “the Sound of Music” is probably my all-time favorite movie! I come from a family of six kids, three boys, three girls, and I am the baby. Way back when, my middle sister got the album “The Sound of Music” for Christmas one year. Unfortunately, as a teenager, she was more into Strawberry Alarm Clock and Carol King and needless to say was a bit disappointed with her Christmas present that she had so cleverly discerned was a record album. Lucky for me, I got the album and learned every word of every song, sang and danced to it so many times, I couldn’t count. However, from that point forward in my family if you received something you didn’t really like, someone would ask, “oh no, is this the Sound of Music?” Of course, after my sister’s teenage years, she too came to love the soundtrack and we all watch the movie every Christmas. If you have never seen it, serve up a warm slice of apple strudel and a cup of Glühwein and enjoy the essence of Austria.

Auf Wiedersehen darling,
Warmest regards,
Darlene