#scandinavian-pasta

[wandaslittlepsycho]

⌗ ✉ !! NOTE :

this blog is sapphic and 18+. Men & minors are not welcome and if I catch you (I will) you will get blocked.

I mention dark topics such as dubcon/noncon very frequently in my work. If you aren’t comfortable with that I highly advise not to interact. I am not responsible for what you consume on the internet, you have been warned.

No one is allowed to translate, copy, reblog or repost my work/content on ANY platform under any circumstances.

✦ ⠂ ⠂ REQUESTS | MASTERLIST

Lil ol’ me ₍ᐢ-๑-ᐢ₎

⨳ 🦴 Pearl , 23 , she/her , INFP , Pisces

hi there! My name is Pearl. I’m lesbian, I live alone with my ginger cat twinkie and my goldfish cosmo! I have one sister, my favourite foods are sushi, dumplings and pasta….ANDDD I’m a half Greek half Scandinavian brunette ˳໒ ͚.ིྀ ݂ . ͚১֯݀♡⃟

If you have any personal questions don’t be afraid to ask ִ ۫  ּ   ﹗

thanks for reading ⋅ ☕️

[placeofwonder]

new year, let's go! not resolutions so much as lists.

general:

walk up all 7 of my town's hills

make progress on my big cross stitch of a lighthouse

write a few stories without trying to make them good

pasta quest (11)

books:

finish Howards End

Orlando

The Hidden Life of Trees

re-read the Inkworld trilogy and then read the new sequel

start the Rivers of London series over from the beginning

at least one David Almond novel

at least one Discworld novel

cooking:

asparagus and chilli linguine (from Cook As You Are)

soba noodles with lime, cardamom and avocado (from my recipe binder)

sweet potatoes with caramelised onions (from Small Victories)

dill-pickled cherry tomatoes (from Cook As You Are)

spam musubi (from this recipe maybe?)

halloumi and pomegranate salad (from Comfort & Spice)

watercress with smoked almond goat cheese scoops & grapes in red wine syrup (from Home Made Winter)

goat's cheese puffs with salsa (from Midnight Chicken)

chickpea soup with sweet potato and feta crackers (from Home Made Winter)

okonomiyaki (from my recipe binder)

bánh xèo (from this recipe maybe?)

beef burrito with harissa (from Cookery Course)

chicken rice (from The Year of Miracles)

grilled shrimp with feta and tomatoes (from Small Victories)

maple soy glazed salmon (from Flavour)

grilled chicken (from Small Victories)

miso chicken milanese with soba noodles (from Comfort)

ginger beer chicken (from Midnight Chicken)

chicken and leeks (from Small Victories)

roast chicken (from Midnight Chicken)

chicken stew with dumplings (from Heroes' Feast)

salami and fig pizza (from Cookery Course)

spicy pepperoni quiche (from How Baking Works)

caramelised onion pissaladière (from GBBO Everyday)

raspberry ginger cream pancakes (from Real Food Real Fast)

crêpes with roasted cherries (from Gatherings)

baking & drinks:

chocolate chip cookies (from Midnight Chicken)

marzipan, sour cherries and chocolate chip cookies (from The Year of Miracles)

rye and orange cookies (from Scandinavian Baking)

zimtsterne (from Heimwehküche Backen)

black sesame and matcha sandwich biscuits (from Flavour)

scones (from Comfort)

lemon & poppy seed muffins (from How Baking Works)

ginger & lemon muffins (from my recipe binder)

gingerbread muffins (from How Baking Works)

"black moss" cupcakes (from Exquisite Exandria)

coconut drizzle cake (from Studentenküche)

olive oil and orange cake (from Small Victories)

blackberry and marzipan apple pie (from Flavour)

maple apple puffs (GBBO Everyday)

franzbrötchen (from Heimwehküche Backen)

start working my way through Brilliant Bread (2 down, see here – next up: wholemeal bread)

poppy seed bread rolls (from Heimwehküche Backen)

crunchy bacon soda bread (from GBBO Everyday)

focaccia (from The Year of Miracles)

basil lemonade (from my recipe binder)

spiced hot chocolate (from Gatherings and/or Flavour)

white chocolate coffee (from Home Made Winter)

[initial-lime]

Fascinated with how a lot of knowledge that’s accepted about autism have a very westernized lens, take for example the thing of “most autistic people have plain pasta or chicken nuggets as their safe-food” which, I’m sure is a sentiment that IS true for a lot of autistic people

However I’m very interested in how this might be skewed by simply not including the experiences of autistic people who come from places where the typical safe-foods aren’t as readily available

Personally, as a Scandinavian, those foods ARE available but to me they are both absolute sensory nightmares if I’m having a bad day. What I consider one of my safe-foods is tinned sardines, something I know for an absolute fact would make a lot of other autistic people upset on a good day

[bloodyknucklesforme]

Guest Check | Rolling Boil

An introduction to the new vibe of the Restaurant AU

Nina was not a good cook. She found planning out a meal to be an exhausting task. Her go to was pasta with veggie, protein and cheese. Tonight was penne with spinach, feta and a couple eggs cracked into the pan. Salt, pepper, garlic and onion powder (she hated chopping fresh, always too chunky) and occasional mixed herb. She'd eat a small bowl and fill a plastic container with the rest where it would inevitably rot.

Her mum always hassled her about wasting food. Eating was just hard sometimes almost as exhausting as figuring out what to eat. She'd subsist on crips, grapes and biscuits if she could.

She grabbed another handful of popcorn from the bowl on the coffee table. Some scandinavian crime show played on the TV. She'd watched so many she could follow along without reading the subtitles, just hearing the inflections in their voices.

It was helpful when she kept having to field texts from Simon, Kyle and John. John checking in because she'd called out sick the past three days. Kyle offering to bring her something to eat, he knew she wasn't sick. And Simon...

Her phone dinged. A dick pic from Simon. A picture is worth a thousand words but Simon's only meaning was "Can I come over?"

She frowned as she looked at the picture. It was taken outside, in the back parking lot of the restaurant. The lighting was almost romantic if she didn't know it was just the light above the back door. Taking a dick pic during his smoke break, seemed typical for him.

Kyle sent another text. Offering to pick up Thai and ice cream. She might have called off for the past three days but she hadn't left her flat in a week. He'd stopped by a few days earlier with sandwiches and pastries from Los Vaqueros Bakery. He was so doting it made her feel guilty.

He'd come by on her bad days. Curl up with her on the couch or in bed. Bring or make her dinner. Eat her out till she came at least twice.

Simon would come over just to hear his hips smack against her ass. Simon who'd fucked her in pub bathrooms and the backseat of his car. Simon who had to be convinced to stay the night and when he did would wake her up just to flip her on her stomach to fuck again. He wasn't a bad lover or even inattentive just not intimate.

She thought about telling both of them no and spending the night with her vibrator and a smutty romance book.

She raised herself from the couch and went to grab a package of biscuits from the cabinet. Still staring at her phone screen.

'I think I'm just going to go to bed' she texted Kyle before liking Simon's photo.

An hour later his hips were smacking against her ass, one hand gripping her waist while the other played between her legs. He was grunting loudly. She wrapped her arms around a pillow, moaning softly. She liked when he was rough. He had enough stamina that she could let her thoughts slip out like water from a sponge.

She didn't have to worry about any romantic feelings or guilt. It was simply sex.

"Put leftovers in the fridge for ya," he said, giving her ass a slap. He always smoke on the balcony between rounds. She could feel his cum dripping out of her. She dragged herself up and into the bathroom. She'd just finished cleaning up before he had her pressed against the sink, holding her chin to look into the mirror as he moved her limbs as he wished. Part of her wished she'd asked Gaz to come over instead.

Tag List: @queen-ilmaree@macravishedbymactavish@gogh-with-the-flow@water-bearz

[umichenginabroad]

Stockholm Week 10: Grind Before Barcelona

Hi! I can’t believe that it’s already the end of March. Isn’t that crazy? It still feels like late February to me. 

I’m bringing this up because my trip to Barcelona is coming up real fast. I am leaving on the 27th when the Explorative Travel Week begins! We get a week off as a travel break; certain elective courses travel as a class during that week, but I am not in any of those electives so I get a week off from school. Hurray! 

The number 1 country I wanted to travel to was Spain, and I am finally going there next week. That also means that this week has been rough, catching up with all the homework and finishing up projects before the break. 

3/18 Mon: (the best news) Class Canceled! 

On Monday, the only class I had switched to online at the last minute due to traffic issues. 

I took the opportunity to call my boyfriend and my mom while I worked on my assignments the entire day. I slept earlier than usual, around 11 pm, to treat myself :) 

3/19 Tue: Spicy Uno

We have been watching this Netflix series called The Chestnut Man in the Scandinavian Crime Fiction class, and I have been on my nerves since the start of the show. The plot and the music interact too well to the point that I have to cover my ears and close my eyes every now and then. I hate horror movies but I would say this is an extremely well-played thriller/detective show. I recommend it to anyone who likes mystery/crime genre! 

When I’m at home, I always have to try very hard to refrain from watching the rest of the episodes on my own. It has been a difficult battle but I made it to the 5th episode (out of 7) without binge-watching it alone. 

I didn’t know (and wouldn’t have known) that crime fiction was so popular in the Scandinavian region before I took this class. I can see why it’s so famous; all the books and films are quite good! I always look forward to starting a new book or series in class. This course has been my absolute favorite class in Stockholm :) 

During lunchtime, I surprisingly met a new friend who’s going to Barcelona on the same day!!! She and her friend booked their flight yesterday, so I never heard about them when I was asking everyone if they’d like to join our Barcelona trip. The most surprising part was that her friend turned out to be my friend who always sat next to me in two classes! We exchanged numbers to talk more about the trip. 

Afterward, I went to Arkivet, a second-hand store on the higher end. There are high-quality clothes that are in good condition—all the way from H&M and Zara to COS, BOSS, and Coach. Although it is a bit more expensive than other stores like Myrona or Stockholm Stadsmission, the pool is much better in my opinion. I bought a Tommy Hilfiger trench coat for $70! 

There are so many buttons on this coat

Happy with my purchase, I came back home and made Alfredo pasta for dinner. I have been CRAVING creamy pasta and it momentarily satisfied my yearning. I need to go to an Italian restaurant and get a good alfredo spaghetti soon. 

I threw some chicken and sausage in there too :) 

That night, my friends and I all gathered around my room to play Spicy Uno. My friend taught us the extra rules and it was a lot more fun than I expected. Towards the end, we even incorporated Never Have I Ever into the game (ง˙∇˙)ว

After they all left, I couldn’t sleep right away because of the sugar rush from all the goodies we ate (ice cream, jellies, chips, chocolate bars, and wafers). 

I blame this sugar rush for the catastrophe that happened a few minutes later. 

I was peacefully putting on a new set of fake nails until the nail glue fell down on my joggers. I can definitely say that it was an exothermic reaction because where the glue spilled was hot. Thankfully, I was able to separate my pants from my thighs by lifting it up a little bit, but my pants did not survive the accident. 

Picture that captures the moment of the tragic incident 

If anyone knows how to remove nail glue on clothes please let me know ( •́ ̯•｡̀ )

3/20 Wed: Skansen Open-Air Museum! 

Today’s field trip for our Swedish class was Skansen, the world’s first open-air museum! 

The escalator was endless and the area of the museum was unparalleled to any other museums I visited. We had a full experience with the tour guide—we even got to go into houses from the 1700s and see reindeer! 

Us inside the houses

More cool photos: 

Some cool facts: 

Going to church was obligatory: people were officially tested on their bible knowledge and the answers were recorded! 

Each house was numbered (well over two thousand pieces for each house), deconstructed, relocated, and reconstructed in the museum! 

After free fika with the entire class, my friend and I hung out around T-Centralen. We went to cafes, second-hand stores (again), and the system. We headed back to the hog together. 

For the rest of the night, I worked on the insurmountable group project for my online ChemE class until 4 am… ;) 

3/21 Thu: Reeeaaaading

I woke up early to do the pre-lecture homework for the classes. Despite dozing off for a few minutes here and there, I finished the assignment! 

For Friday’s class, I started and finished reading half of The Wolf and the Watchman by Niklas Natt och Dag. I’m starting to spot the similarities in the settings of the crime fiction novels! 

3/22-3/23 Fri-Sat: Zoom Meetings

I devoted two whole days to working on the group project. I had a series of Zoom sessions with the Professor and then with teammates. 

Cooking and doing laundry was my time off from work! 

When I was done with the project around 11 pm Saturday, I started scavenging for English-guided tours for Barcelona. The tickets were rapidly selling out! 

I managed to get an English tour of Sagrada Familia and Park Guell. They were expensive, but when would I ever have the chance to visit Spain? With that mindset, I joyfully paid for the events. 

3/24 Sun: Planning Barcelona..

My body weighed 200 tons today and wouldn’t have gotten out of bed until 2 pm if it wasn’t for the Barcelona planning meeting I scheduled with my friends. 

We met at Downtown Camper Cafe in T-Centralen and stayed there for three hours, making reservations and finalizing schedules. We are ready to fly to Barcelona! 

The bathroom was fancy

Again, when I got home, I cooked and did more homework.

Tada!

With the energy I gained from dinner, I was able to work on the group project until I got burnt out at 9 pm. I called my mom for a little (meaning 1.5 hours) and did some more work before going to sleep. 

I am SO excited to share my experience in Barcelona next week! 

Stay tuned for new, rejuvenating adventures coming soon!!! 

Tack,  

Jiwoo Kim 

Chemical Engineering

DIS Study Abroad in Stockholm, Sweden

[full-on-sam]

Author Ask Tag Game

Thank @mjparkerwriting for the tag! You can see the post here!

1. What is the main lesson of your story (e.g. kindness, diversity, anti-war), and why did you choose it?

Well I think the main lesson is about life and death, and how humanity can change things even whitout the help of powerful entities. Believing in them can give hope, but can also ve dangerous only trusting into someone else to get things done. At a certain point you have to just get put there and do your own thing too

2. What did you use as inspiration for your worldbuilding (like real-life cultures, animals, famous media, websites, etc.)?

The five islands in U'nyon-he are based on five real life cultures (Germanic, Scandinavian, Arab, Chinese, Aztec). For the details I got inspired a lot by the way Genshin Impact did the landscapes, animals, people, shops, food. I loved te level of depth it was put in and I took notes to try and replicate it.

3. What is your MC trying to achieve, and what are you, the writer, trying to achieve with them? Do you want to inspire others, teach forgiveness, and help readers grow as a person?

I do not really have a MC, rather five Oc's whit their pov's in the whole book up until the point they meet each other. They are trying to get the respective five islands to get out of being closed off and isolated, so that everyone can be more free. Alongside that goal, each of them has their own thing they want to achieve.

Personally I am just trying to make them live. Sometimes I feel like they are begging to have their story told, and I am just complying.

4. How many chapters is your story going to have?

I am not sure about it. Maybe 32? But there could be more

5. Is it fanfiction or original content? Where do you plan to post it?

It's original content. I would like to publish it one day, but I am not sure if I will succeed. And obviously I will post snippets here and there on tumblr!

6. When and why did you start writing?

The first thing I wrote was a newspaper with invented news when I was 7. I think I was bored at school, so I just decided to make something fun at home instead.

7. Do you have any words of encouragement for fellow writers of writeblr? What other writers on Tumblr do you follow?

The first draft is only just that: a first draft! You are allowed to suck at it, to miss names, to put [get there] for bits you still are not sure what to write in. There are second and third draft for that all to make more sense! So don't get discouraged by it, and don't give up even if you feel words are not flowing right and there is something wrong in your work! It's only temporary and you will solve it all later!

And since my following count is mainly other writeblrs, for this I am tagging my mutuals. If y'all want you can do this game too! @squarebracket-trick, @bluberimufim, @sm-writes-chaos, @writernopal, @tea-and-mercury, @cheeto-flavoured-pasta, @rbbess110, @biptome

[goldshadows]

tag 10 people you want to get to know better.

favorite color(s): pink mostly. but i love any and all colours.

song stuck in your head: dial drunk by noah kahan

last song you listened to: we didn't start the fire by fall out boy

3 favorite foods: lemon pasta with chicken, kebab, strawberry cake.

dream trip: i fell in love with scotland the first time i went so that. or any scandinavian countries. i really wanna see the northern lights also.

anything i want right now: about two months off work. and for the weather to literally chill.

tagged by: @dereiserne <3 tagging: @seatizen , @mooncaught , @starkveiined , @gunchamber , @muutos , @seesgood + anyone who sees this.

[blueberry-beanie]

Fancy paper dolls, country of sweets, and Milky-Chan the fawn for the angelic pretty asks!

Thank you for asking, Maddie! 🐝

Fancy Paper Dolls: What accessories would come with a doll version of you? Chocolate . A backpack, because I almos never leave the house without one. Please also don't leave my poor doll without her headphones and some music. As for clothes, a green t-shirt, black jeans and a cozy knitted jacket in brown. Maybe my red beanie, I've had it for many years now. And comfy boots.

Country of Sweets: What countries would you like to visit? I'd love to visit Greece, although please not during the summer. N is currently in Greece and also I've never been there. It would be cool to see some historical places, visit a few cool islands and get to know Athens. Other than this, one day I'd like to revisit London because I miss it and I have lived there for almost a year. I've also never been to Scandinavian countries, that would be something to see. Or the Alps in Austria and Switzerland. I have travelled through them but never actually been hiking there or something. Much to discover! I'd also visit France (but please with sb who speaks French) and if I ever get back to Italy there will be no stopping me from eating five ice creams and an equivalent amount of pasta daily. This is how my journey will end.

Milky-chan the Fawn: Favourite forest animal? The ones that I see most often are red squirrels and woodpeckers. They are cool. I love how you can often hear a woodpecker and still can't seem to spot it. Foxes are obviously cool and what is also interesting, some lynxes live in Germany again. You will obviously not spot them but I think it's cool they are back.

[uptheredslfc]

Tagged by @thelatenightvibes thank you love🥰

I tag, no idea, whoever wants to do it!

Relationship status: single, I’ve been for a while, before I was single because I was choosing to and I was happy, but now I actually want a boyfriend😭

Favourite colour: 💋🌹🍒🩸❤️ and 🫦👛🦩🌺🎀💗

Song stuck in my head: today the song is changing every 5 minutes

Song I last listened to: perfect-ed sheeran (old but gold)

Three favourite foods: pasta, burger, and literally all Mediterranean food

Last thing I googled: I delete all my tabs so I’m not sure😂

Dream trip: any Scandinavian country for northern lights, Norway because I want to visit it in particular as well😂, and spain. Spainnnnnn. Also a new rising dream trip is Morocco

Anything I want right now: to finish studying and eat some unhealthy meal followed by a ton of chocolate but I can’t do that because I’m cutting out unhealthy for a while!! I don’t like that but I’m proud of myself

[yourmoonmomma]

ohh your comfort food sounds italian, arw you italian maps?

-LS

Nope, I'm Russian & Scandinavian! Just have a big love for pasta🤩

[wandaslittleweirdo]

✉ !! NOTE :

this blog is sapphic and 18+. Men & minors will be blocked.

I mention dark topics such as dubcon/noncon very frequently in my work. If you aren’t comfortable with that I highly advise not to read. I am not responsible for what you consume on the internet, you have been warned.

No one is allowed to translate, copy, reblog or repost my work on ANY platform without my permission.

✦ ⠂⠂REQUESTS . MASTERLIST .

Lil ol’ me!

⨳ Pearl , 23 , she/her , INFJ , Pisces

hi there! My name is Pearl. I am lesbian, half greek half scandinavian brunette, I live alone with my ginger cat twinkie and my goldfish cosmo! I have one sister, my favourite foods are sushi, dumplings & pasta ˳໒ ͚.ིྀ ݂ . ͚১֯݀♡⃟.

If you have any questions don’t be afraid to askִ ۫  ּ  

thanks for reading …

[saurabhanandtripzygo]

Discovering Europe's Waterfront Culinary Gems Must-Visit Restaurants in 2024

Europe Tour Packages' stunning coastline is not just a feast for the eyes but also for the palate. As we venture into 2024, it’s time to explore some of the continent’s most exquisite waterfront dining experiences. From the Mediterranean shores to the Atlantic coast,

1. La Pergola, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Nestled on the cliffs of the picturesque Amalfi Coast, La Pergola offers an unforgettable dining experience. With panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, this restaurant combines traditional Italian flavors with modern culinary techniques. Indulge in fresh seafood pasta while sipping on local limoncello, all while enjoying the breathtaking sunset.

2. Le Grand Bleu, Nice, France

Located in the heart of the French Riviera, Le Grand Bleu is a haven for seafood lovers. The restaurant boasts an extensive menu featuring the freshest catches of the day, prepared with a touch of Provençal flair. Enjoy a glass of chilled rosé as you overlook the sparkling Mediterranean waters.

3. El Celler del Mar, Costa Brava, Spain

Perched on the rugged coast of Costa Brava, El Celler del Mar offers a unique blend of Catalan cuisine and contemporary gastronomy. The restaurant’s beachfront location provides stunning views of the Balearic Sea, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner. Don’t miss their signature paella, paired with a fine Spanish wine.

4. Hafnia, Copenhagen, Denmark

Hafnia, situated along Copenhagen’s scenic harbor, is a testament to the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Specializing in Nordic cuisine, the restaurant sources local and sustainable ingredients to create dishes that are both innovative and delicious. Enjoy a waterfront view of the city’s iconic architecture while savoring dishes like smoked salmon and pickled herring.

5. The Lobster Pot, County Cork, Ireland

For a more rustic yet equally charming experience, visit The Lobster Pot in County Cork. Overlooking the wild Atlantic Ocean, this cozy restaurant is known for its hearty Irish seafood dishes. Whether it’s a bowl of creamy seafood chowder or a platter of fresh oysters, every bite is a taste of Ireland’s rich maritime heritage.

6. Poseidon, Santorini, Greece

Santorini’s beauty is legendary, and Poseidon captures this essence perfectly. Located on the caldera’s edge, this restaurant offers unparalleled views of the Aegean Sea. The menu features classic Greek dishes with a modern twist, such as grilled octopus and feta-stuffed tomatoes, all enjoyed against the backdrop of a stunning sunset.

7. Bølgen & Moi, Oslo, Norway

Bølgen & Moi, set along the Oslofjord, is a culinary gem in Norway’s capital. The restaurant combines Scandinavian design with a menu that highlights the best of Norwegian seafood. Treat yourself to dishes like king crab and Arctic char while watching boats glide across the fjord.

8. Aqua, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Aqua in Dubrovnik offers a dining experience as historic as its surroundings. Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, this restaurant specializes in Dalmatian cuisine, featuring ingredients sourced from the local markets. Enjoy dishes like black risotto and fresh Adriatic fish as you take in the views of Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls.

Final Thoughts

Europe’s waterfront restaurants offer more than just spectacular views; they provide a culinary journey that captures the essence of their locales. Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, Nordic innovation, or traditional Irish fare, these dining gems are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So, as you plan your travels for 2024, be sure to add these exquisite waterfront restaurants to your must-visit list. Bon appétit!

[seoplassy]

Cardamom Creations: Innovative Ways to Use this Spice in Your Kitchen

In the world of culinary delights, few spices possess the versatility and aromatic charm quite like Green Cardamom. Also known as Whole Green Cardamom, Cardamom, Elaichi, Chhoti Elaichi, or Hari Elaichi, this flavorful pod packs a punch in both sweet and savory dishes, making it a staple in kitchens around the globe. Let's explore how you can infuse your cooking with the enchanting essence of cardamom, unlocking a world of creative possibilities.

Introduction to Cardamom: Green cardamom is more than just a spice; it's a culinary treasure with roots in ancient traditions. With its distinctive citrusy, minty flavor and warm, slightly sweet aroma, it adds depth and complexity to dishes from various cuisines. Whether used whole or ground, its presence is unmistakable, elevating everything from desserts to savory stews.

Traditional Uses: In traditional cooking, cardamom shines in dishes like Indian chai tea, where its fragrant notes mingle with black tea, milk, and spices. Middle Eastern cuisines feature it in savory rice dishes and meat rubs, while Scandinavian bakers incorporate it into delicate pastries and bread. The versatility of green cardamom knows no bounds, making it a cherished ingredient in culinary traditions worldwide.

Creative Pairings: Unlock your culinary creativity by experimenting with unexpected pairings of cardamom. Try combining it with fruits like oranges or apples for a refreshing twist on salads or desserts. For savory dishes, consider adding it to marinades for meats or mixing it into creamy sauces for pasta. The possibilities are endless, and the results are sure to delight your taste buds.

Beverages: Take your beverages to the next level with the addition of cardamom. Infuse it into cocktails for a sophisticated touch or steep it in hot water with honey and lemon for a soothing herbal tea. For coffee lovers, a sprinkle of ground green cardamom adds depth and complexity to your morning brew, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Desserts and Baked Goods: Indulge your sweet tooth with decadent desserts featuring cardamom. From rich cakes to delicate cookies, this spice adds a layer of intrigue to every bite. Incorporate it into ice creams, custards, or puddings for a luxurious finish that will leave your guests begging for more.

Savory Dishes: In savory cooking, cardamom adds a unique flavor profile that enhances a wide range of dishes. From aromatic curries to hearty stews, its warm, slightly peppery notes complement meats, vegetables, and legumes alike. Don't be afraid to experiment with different spice blends to find the perfect balance for your palate.

Condiments and Sauces: Transform ordinary condiments into extraordinary creations with the addition of cardamom. Whip up a batch of tangy chutney infused with whole green cardamom pods or drizzle spicy-sweet dressings over salads and grilled vegetables. The complex flavors of cardamom will elevate even the simplest of dishes to new heights.

Preservation and Storage: To preserve the freshness and potency of whole green cardamom, store it in an airtight container away from heat and sunlight. When using ground cardamom, grind small batches as needed to ensure maximum flavor. With proper storage and handling, your supply of cardamom will remain a vibrant addition to your culinary repertoire.

Health Benefits and Culinary Tips: Beyond its culinary allure, cardamom offers a host of potential health benefits, including improved digestion and breath freshening properties. When cooking with cardamom, remember that a little goes a long way, so start with small amounts and adjust to taste. Whether you're a seasoned chef or an adventurous home cook, exploring the myriad uses of cardamom is sure to inspire your culinary creations.

Conclusion: Innovation in the kitchen begins with a willingness to experiment and explore new flavors, and cardamom provides the perfect opportunity to do just that. From traditional recipes to bold culinary experiments, the possibilities are endless when you harness the power of this versatile spice. So, grab a handful of whole green cardamom pods and let your imagination run wild—your taste buds will thank you!

[govassist]

The Foodie’s Guide to the Schengen Zone: Must-Try Dishes Across Europe

Embarking on a culinary journey through Europe is like opening a treasure chest of flavors, traditions, and unforgettable experiences. The Schengen Zone, with its rich tapestry of cultures, offers a diverse palette of dishes that are a must-try for any food lover. Let's take a gastronomic tour and discover the delicacies that make each country in this zone a foodie’s paradise.

The Essence of European Cuisine

European cuisine is an exquisite blend of history, tradition, and innovation. Each region has its unique culinary identity, shaped by geographical influences, historical events, and cultural exchanges. From the finesse of French cooking to the heartwarming comforts of Eastern European dishes, European cuisine is as diverse as it is delightful.

France: A Gourmet’s Paradise

Where Every Meal is an Art Form

Classic French Dishes: France is renowned for its culinary finesse, with iconic dishes like Coq au Vin, Bouillabaisse, and Ratatouille. Each region boasts its specialty, from the creamy cheeses of Normandy to the rich stews of Burgundy.

Patisserie and Boulangerie: French pastries and bread are in a league of their own. The delicate layers of a croissant, the sweet indulgence of éclairs, and the rustic charm of a freshly baked baguette are integral to the French dining experience.

Italy: More Than Just Pizza and Pasta

A Celebration of Simplicity and Flavor

Regional Delicacies: While pizza and pasta reign supreme, Italian cuisine offers much more. Risotto from the north, hearty Osso Buco from Lombardy, and fresh seafood along the coast showcase Italy's regional diversity.

Italian Gelato: No trip to Italy is complete without savoring authentic Italian gelato. Its rich texture and pure flavors make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Spain: A Tapestry of Flavors

From Rustic Tapas to Elegant Seafood Dishes

Tapas Culture: Tapas are not just food; they’re a way of life. These small, flavorful dishes range from simple olives and cheeses to complex seafood and meat preparations.

Paella and More: Paella, a symbol of Spanish cuisine, varies from region to region. Gazpacho offers a refreshing treat, while Churros provide a sweet end to a meal.

Germany: Comfort Food at Its Best

Hearty Dishes to Warm the Soul

Robust Flavors: German cuisine is known for its hearty and robust flavors. Dishes like Schnitzel, Bratwurst, and Sauerbraten are often accompanied by sides of sauerkraut and dense bread.

Beer Culture: Germany’s beer culture complements its cuisine perfectly. Each region boasts its beer style, forming an integral part of the German culinary experience.

Scandinavian Delights

Fresh, Simple, and Elegant

Fresh Ingredients: Scandinavian cuisine is characterized by its simplicity and reliance on fresh, local ingredients. Dishes often feature seafood, such as Norwegian Salmon, or game meats, paired with fresh vegetables and berries.

Unique Offerings: Swedish Meatballs, Danish Smørrebrød (open sandwiches), and Finnish Karelian pasties are just a few examples of the unique and flavorful dishes found in Scandinavia.

The Richness of Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe is a region marked by a rich tapestry of cultures, each contributing to a diverse culinary landscape. From the hearty and comforting Polish pierogi to the complex flavors of Georgian khinkali, the region is a treasure trove of flavors. In countries like Hungary, the cuisine is known for its deep, robust flavors, as seen in their famous goulash. Meanwhile, the coastal regions of Croatia and Bulgaria offer a bounty of seafood, marrying Mediterranean influences with Slavic traditions. Eastern European cuisine is characterized by its variety, influenced by its history of various empires and cross-cultural exchanges.

Street Food and Markets

Street food in Eastern Europe is an embodiment of the region's culinary spirit, combining convenience with rich tradition. In cities like Prague and Budapest, street vendors offer a plethora of options, ranging from Czech trdelník, a sweet pastry, to Hungarian lángos, a deep-fried flatbread. 

These markets are not just food hubs but also cultural melting pots, where one can experience the vibrancy and communal spirit of Eastern European cities. Seasonal markets, especially during Christmas and Easter, offer a special glimpse into regional traditions and culinary practices.

Dietary Preferences and Modern Twists

As global trends influence dietary preferences, Eastern European cuisine is not immune to change. There's an increasing presence of vegetarian and vegan adaptations of traditional dishes. For instance, meatless versions of the Serbian cevapi or the Romanian sarmale are gaining popularity. Chefs across the region are also experimenting with contemporary techniques and flavors, offering a new perspective on classic dishes. This blend of tradition and innovation is creating a unique culinary landscape that respects its roots while embracing modern tastes.

Food Tours and Culinary Experiences

For those looking to immerse themselves in the culinary richness of Eastern Europe, food tours offer an insightful and delicious way to explore the region. These tours often include visits to local markets, traditional eateries, and even cooking classes with local chefs. For example, a food tour in Krakow might include sampling Polish kielbasa at a local market, followed by a cooking class on making pierogi. Such experiences provide a deeper understanding of the culture and traditions behind Eastern European cuisines, making them more than just a meal, but a journey through history and flavor.

Conclusion

A journey through the Schengen Zone is a feast for the senses, offering a kaleidoscope of flavors and experiences. From high-end dining to street food, every meal is an opportunity to explore and enjoy the essence of Europe.

Planning your culinary adventure in Europe begins with a hassle-free visa application process. GovAssist specializes in providing expert guidance for Schengen Visa applications, ensuring your paperwork is in order so you can focus on the delicious journey ahead.

Europe awaits with its rich culinary heritage and diverse flavors. Pack your appetite and embark on a foodie’s journey through the Schengen Zone, where every meal is a celebration and every dish tells a story.

[inpursuitofloss]

I ended up not being able to fast today :( I have type 1 diabetes and my blood sugar started dropping a lot in the morning so I had to eat some fruit snacks so I didn't die instantly 🙃 but I went to the gym and it was good, I was able to run for longer and tried a little bit of that 12 3 30 after I finished my planned run, then did a little weight machine but I didn't really like it. I did an ab workout and stretched when I got home, probably burned at least 300 total?

Had half a Scandinavian flat bread (15) a light laughing cow wedge (35) and mini cucumber (10?) for lunch so not bad. I'm going to make that feta pasta from ticktock for dinner but use spaghetti squash and shiritaki (?) noodles for my serving so not too much hopefully.

I think my numbers will be down tomorrow because I had some ahem movements this morning so it should be in the 150s!!!

[rabbitcruiser]

Buffet Day

Everybody loves a buffet, so imagine having a whole day dedicated to one! Buffet Day is about hosting or attending a buffet of epic proportions—enjoy a table spread with enough food to keep you full for a whole day, and interesting enough to make eating all day fun and exciting!

The History of Buffet Day

The buffet table has its origins in brännvinsbord—a type of schnapps made in 16th century Sweden. The smörgåsbord was a type of “meal” during which guests gathered for a pre-dinner drink and small talk. The smörgåsbord buffet was often held in separate rooms for men and women before the dinner was served. The Smörgåsbord became internationally known as “smorgasbord” at the 1939 New York World’s Fair exhibition when the Swedes taking part in the exhibition had to invent a new way of showcasing the best dishes of the Swedish cuisine to large numbers of visitors. The term “buffet” itself originally referred to a type of French sideboard furniture where the food was served but became popular in the English-speaking world in the second half of the 20th century after the Swedes had popularized the smorgasbord in New York, probably because it was considerably easier to pronounce and remember.

How to Celebrate Buffet Day

The way you celebrate Buffet Day depends on where you are and what your preferences are. If you happen to be anywhere near Nevada, it would be an unforgettable experience to visit one of Las Vegas’ famous all-you-can-eat buffets. The Carnival World Buffet offers more than 300 dishes (!) and more than 70 varieties of homemade pies, cakes, and pastries all made from scratch. For $24, you can get into Carnival World and stay all day, tasting the extremely wide variety of foods on offer all throughout it. If you’re a fan of seafood, you could visit The Village Seafood Buffet, that features all of your seafood favorites such as lobster, snow crab legs, shrimp, freshly shucked oysters, sushi and many other mouthwatering seafood dishes. Lago Buffet at Caesars Palace is another absolute must for anyone who truly loves food, especially in such enormous quantities. Featuring fresh ingredients and many made-to-order specialties, the Lago Buffet offers a world-class selection of Asian fare, herb-roasted poultry and sauteed pasta.

If you’re not anywhere near Nevada, or crowded places are just not your thing, consider preparing your own buffet at home to celebrate Buffet Day. You can make anything you want, of course, but seeing as how the buffet has Swedish origins, why not try some Swedish or Scandinavian specialties? Start buy seeking out a high-quality schnapps. Many different kinds of flavored schnapps are available today, and they range from exotic, summery flavors such as watermelon or coconut to root beer or others like it. The world over, cinnamon schnapps is perhaps the most popular kind of schnapps. However, if you’re wanting to keep your smorgasbord/buffet as traditional as possible, buy some Akvavit, a flavored spirit that has been produced in Scandinavia since the 15th century. Akvavit, like vodka, is distilled from either grain or potatoes. After distillation, it is flavored with herbs, spices, or fruit oil, with caraway, cardamom, cumin, anise, fennel, and lemon or orange peel being the most popular choices. Traditionally, different types of pickled herring are served with the drink.

Whatever you decide to do, don’t forget to celebrate Buffet Day!

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