At home culture series: Cook up an International dish (Europe)

During coronavirus, we may not be able to travel. However, we can find creative ways to enjoy other cultures even at home. Start off by getting creative in the kitchen. Research some traditional treats and foods from different countries and cultures. In this post we will discuss some traditional European foods. Feel free to use these dishes as inspiration.

Rösti (Switzerland)

This traditional Swiss dish originated from the Bern region of Switzerland. The dish is so popular that a part of Switzerland is called “Röstigraben” or “rosti ditch.” Made out of potato’s and cheese, this dish is something kids and adults will both enjoy. This dish takes about forty minutes to prepare and cook. Learn more about this dish and how to prepare it at https://www.thespruceeats.com/roesti-step-by-step-1447190

Çılbır- Turkish Eggs (Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Serbia)

Although the name suggests this to be a popular Turkish dish, this is often served in the Balkan countries. This dish can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire. The term Çılbır means “fried egg” in the Turkish language. This simple and quick dish has little prep time and is a hearty meal for breakfast or brunch. Find out how to prepare this dish at https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/turkish_eggs_77109

Palatschinke/Palačinky (Czech Republic)

Similar to a crepe, this dessert is can be both savory and sweet. The dish comes from ancient times, even mentioned by Greek poets poets Archestratos and Antiphanes. The dish is popular throughout Eastern Europe, but is best known in the Slavic countries, particularly in the Czech Republic. Make this meal by following the recipe at https://www.internationalcuisine.com/czech-republic-palacinky/

Horchata (Spain)

This nonalcoholic drink tastes similar to sweet milk, but is made from tiger nuts. It originates from the town of Alboraya in eastern Spain. To make this drink, the tiger huts have to sit for twenty four hours according to this recipe. Therefor leave time for this step and give it also a few hours to sit in the fridge to get cold. Follow the recipe at https://www.spainonafork.com/authentic-spanish-horchata-recipe/

Rupjmaize - Dark Rye Bread (Latvia)

Rye has been grown in Latvia for over 1200 years, so it is no wonder it is considered one of their staple dishes. This dish was often served with every meal. Read up on the recipe and this traditional dish at https://latvianeats.com/archives/264

Croissant (Austria and France)

Both Austria and France are known for their delicate pastries. Towns in both these countries are full of pasty shops, dessert stores, and more. When choosing a food to represent these countries, the croissant was the obvious choice. This flaky puff pastry originated in Austria, although it’s French roots also run deep. Named for its crescent moon shape, this dessert is sure to be a showstopper. If you want to make it from scratch, it is a long task. Learn how to make it at https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/homemade-croissants/

Tzatziki (Greece)

This dish is one of my favorite to make because it can go on almost anything. It is also known as the cucumber yogurt dip that can be served with vegetables, bread, chicken, rice, and so much more. The dish dates back to the Ottoman Empire, but overtime it has blended with other cultures to become the dish it is today. Make the authentic dish following the recipe at https://www.thespruceeats.com/tzatziki-cucumber-yogurt-dip-1705394

Shepard’s pie (Ireland/England)

Growing up in a family with Irish background, this dish happens to be one of my childhood favorites. It was originally known as cottage pie until 1854, when Shepard’s pie came into term since lamb was often served in it. Made out of potato, meat, onion, vegetables, and other common foods makes this a good dish to make out of leftovers. Create this tasty dish following the recipe at https://www.thewholesomedish.com/the-best-classic-shepherds-pie/

Although we can not travel to Europe right now, perhaps by sprucing up a European meal in the kitchen, we can learn more about these cultures.

Make one of these dishes or another European dish! Learn about other European dishes at https://www.farandwide.com/s/europe-traditional-food-bf3982a5f9c44ca8