Goulash – Original from Hungary

goulashGoulash, which is by far the most famous and appreciated typical Hungarian dish in the world, derives from the word “gulya” which means “herd of cattle” and in fact, in ancient times it was prepared by the herdsmen who, between the 18th and 19th centuries, they transported the prized gray steers from Hungary to the markets of neighboring countries.
Hungarian goulash is therefore a poor dish halfway between a stew and a soup, characterized by a marked presence of sweet paprika which gives it its particular color, while, an important contribution of taste is given by the presence of cumin seeds and from peppers. Continue reading “Goulash – Original from Hungary”

Cacio e Pepe Pasta (or Cheese and Pepper Pasta)

cacio e pepe pasta – cheese and pepper pastaOne of the cornerstones of Roman / Lazio cuisine is the cacio e pepe pasta from which, by varying some ingredients, the very famous gricia, amatriciana and carbonara derive.
The context in which cacio e pepe pasta originated is the poor one linked to sheep farming and transhumance.
Cacio e pepe pasta is only apparently a simple dish in fact, those who decide to make it for the first time, if they do not pay the right attention, risk causing the cheese to coagulate, irreparably ruining the final result. Continue reading “Cacio e Pepe Pasta (or Cheese and Pepper Pasta)”

Blini (or Russian Crepes)

bliniBlini are one of the most frequent and ancient dishes of Russian cuisine.
The recipe, at least as regards the aesthetic result, is very similar to that of crepes.

Blini are prepared and consumed immediately seasoned according to tradition with red caviar (ikra) or smetana or other ingredients that can vary from sweet to savory according to personal tastes. Continue reading “Blini (or Russian Crepes)”

Shuba – Herring Under a Fur Coat Salad

shuba - herring under a fur coatA very famous salad in Russia and in general throughout Eastern Europe is the Herring Under the Fur Coat (Selyodka Pod Shuboi) known more simply as “Shuba”.

The name derives from the fact that, by construction, the herring is covered in layers of other ingredients and looks almost as if it is inside a fur coat.

It is a dish that is made mainly for the holidays and in particular for the New Year. Continue reading “Shuba – Herring Under a Fur Coat Salad”