About gourmet food and wine in Eastern Europe
Eastern Europe is a region with a rich culinary history, and Croatia, Slovenia, Czech Republic and Slovakia are no exception. These countries boast delicious gourmet food and fine wines that reflect their unique cultural influences and traditions. In Croatia, one must try the Dalmatian ham, a salt-cured and air-dried ham that is a regional specialty. Another must-try is the black risotto, a rich seafood dish made with squid ink, garlic, and olive oil. Croatia is also known for its delicious wines, with Plavac Mali and Malvasija being two popular varieties. Slovenia is famous for its world-renowned pumpkin oil, which is made from roasted pumpkin seeds and is used to flavor a variety of dishes. Another popular dish is jota, a hearty stew made with beans, sauerkraut, potatoes, and bacon. When it comes to wine, Slovenia has a growing reputation for its quality white wines such as Rebula and Sauvignon Blanc. In the Czech Republic, traditional dishes include svickova, which is roast beef with dumplings and creamy vegetable sauce, and kolaches, a sweet pastry filled with fruit or cheese. The country is also known for its excellent beers, with Pilsner Urquell and Budweiser Budvar being two famous brands. Slovakia's cuisine is heavily influenced by its neighboring countries, including Hungary and Austria. One must-try dish is bryndzove halusky, a hearty potato dumpling dish served with sheep cheese and bacon. Slovakian wines are also gaining recognition for their unique flavors, with Devin and Frankovka being two popular varieties. |
