Around the world in 80 dishes

To the land of the great philosophers we go, but what did they actually eat? Greek cuisine has records dating back to Ancient Greek times. It later influenced food around Europe and the world. Arguably, the first ever cookbook was written around 330 BC by Sicilian Greek poet Archestratus. His humorous poem, The Life of Luxury, (all written in verse, Gordon Ramsey needs to up his game) is a unique take on where and when the best produce can be found. This is a beautiful insight into the ancient world of cooking, as he travelled, much like we are now, to find the best food around the Mediterranean. In case you do find yourself in the area, Archestratus recommends swordfish from Byzantium and wine from Lesbos, good luck! Greek food is simple, yet so colourful and nutritious. Ancient Greek cuisine contained the “Mediterranean triad”: wheat, olive oil and wine. Meat was not commonly consumed until recently, when meat could be more...

Serbia is one of the Balkan countries, located on the crossroads between East and West. Because of this, throughout history Serbian cuisine has been in close cultural contact with Greek, Byzantine and Eastern European influences. These mixes come together to form a hearty cuisine which focuses on natural and fresh ingredients. Like Hungary, Serbian cuisine is based mostly on meat and dairy. Historians suggest that medieval Serbian food consisted mostly of milk, dairy and vegetables. Bread wasn’t eaten often, but when it was, poor people ate oat and rye based bread, while wheat was only for the rich. Items we would usually buy, such as pickles, jelly, jam, Serbians prefer to make at home. Cooking is part of family traditions. The world for kitchen “kuća” literally means home. The kitchen is always the centrepiece of the house; the hearth where the family gathers near the fireplace. Today, Serbians have 3 standard meals a day, but...

Hungary is known as the question mark of Europe. Why is that we hear you ask? Well, being in Central Europe, part of Austro-Hungarian Empire and later an old Soviet state, we expect Hungary to have a lot of similarities to either it’s Germanic or Slavic neighbours. But even the language couldn’t be more different. Hungarian is actually closest to Finish, than any other language. Where is the link there?? But we aren’t here to discuss etymology, tell us talk about the food! Well, Hungarian food managed to maintain its authenticity, while also being influenced by its neighbours. The result is delicious meals which are hearty enough to survive the harsh winters and tasty to feed all of your friends and family. And for the sweet tooth out there, there are plenty of delicious desserts. Hungarian food has always been meat orientated thanks to the nomadic Magyar tribes in 10th century. This laid the foundation of the cu...