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Diana Laskaris

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Chef Art Smith has been a delightful fixture in the culinary scene for decades. His influences can be seen throughout the U.S. from his multiple restaurants, television appearances, and nonprofit activities. We first met Chef Art Smith when we lived in Chicago.

We enjoyed his famous fried chicken at one of his restaurants and always enjoyed our conversations at various culinary and charitable events. One thing we know for certain is that when Chef Art Smith is involved, lots of fun and flavor follow.

 

Who Is Chef Art Smith?

Many people may know Chef Art as Oprah Winfrey’s private chef for a decade. He’s also been in the public eye on television sharing his talents on shows like Top Chef, Iron Chef America, The Today Show, Good Morning America, and many more.

 

Chef Art Smith

 

He was named Humanitarian of The Year by the James Beard Foundation in 2007, was inducted into the Chicago Culinary Hall of Fame, and even had a day named after him by Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley.

 

Chef Art Restaurants

His restaurants have been serving delicious food to appreciative diners in Atlanta, Chicago, Orlando, and Washington D.C. often infusing his sense of food as a form of community and shared experience that moves people to enjoy more than physical sustenance, but a personal nourishment as well.

Reunion restaurant, his latest addition to the Chicago food scene has become a Navy Pier restaurant that speaks to that dimension. Chef Art presents his delicious versions of favorite down-home classics like fried green tomatoes, deviled eggs, fried catfish, shrimp & grits, and, of course, fried chicken in a friendly, unfussy, and comfortable environment.

Reunion is a sister to his incredibly popular Homecomin’ restaurant at Disney World in Florida, where families go through 60 tons of chicken a year, along with lots of hush puppies, mac and cheese, and delicious Hummingbird cake. They even make their own moonshine!

Chef Art’s restaurants all share that sense of an invitation to a great meal surrounded with love. Sunshine Diner at the Orlando airport, Blue Door Kitchen & Garden, and Art & Soul all offer diners a chance to experience Chef Art’s delightful food in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

Common Threads

One of our favorite Chef Art projects is his creation of the nonprofit organization Common Threads. Founded in 2003, Common Threads teaches children from diverse cultural backgrounds about nutrition and physical well-being.

They learn how to cook wholesome and affordable meals while also celebrating cultural diversity and learning about similarities while enjoying the fun and comfort of doing things in the kitchen.

Chef Art Smith Is A Cultural Diplomat

Since we’ve been noticing his several visits to Portugal, we thought we’d find out what’s been going on. We had the chance to catch up with Chef Art Smith via Zoom and see what else he has on the horizon. Turns out (as we should have expected) a whole lot!

Chef Art Smith is now a cultural diplomat. He uses his culinary expertise to spread happiness through the taste buds increasingly around the world. His friend, Randi Levine, the U.S. Ambassador to Portugal has invited him several times to participate in special events, hosted celebrations, and more.

We saw him hustling around Arrail Lisboa Pride, cooking up a storm for hungry festa goers. We know that his fried chicken is bound to be a hit anywhere in the world. So when he talked to us about future endeavors, it was no surprise to hear him mention countries in Latin America and other parts of the world as possible future outlets for his southern hospitality and delicious recipes.

 

US Ambassador Randi Levine with Chef Art Smith in Lisbon
US Ambassador Randi Levine with Chef Art Smith at Lisboa Pride.

 

We love the idea of food and drink as a tool for communication too. You may not know that we wrote a chapter in the World Food Travel Association handbook, Have Fork Will Travel, about that very idea. Like Chef Art, we believe that food builds community and that the common threads we can find through sitting down together to break bread are always worth exploring.

Health And Wellness

Chef Art Smith has, like many of us, also worked on his health. He’s looking fit and fabulous, which is important when keeping up with his growing children and artist husband Jesus Salguiero. Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes back in 2008, Chef Art took the information as a wake-up call and, through ups and downs, has made health a priority. He’s also made some of his delicious but indulgent recipes available in trimmer form so those of us who need to be more alert can enjoy the flavor of his amazing southern delights without guilt.

Here’s one of our favorite health-conscious recipes from the mind and kitchen of Chef Art Smith.

Chef Art Smith's Unfried Chicken Recipe

Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 1 cup buttermilkor non-fat Greek-style yogurt
  • 1 tbsp Louisiana-style hot sauce
  • 4 skinless,boneless chicken breasts, cut in half
  • 1 1/2 cups whole wheat or multigrain panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 tbsp gratedparmesan cheese
  • 2 tsp ground black pepper ground cayenne or red pepper to taste
  • 1 1/2 tsp each of onion powder and garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 lemon quartered for garnish (optional)

Instructions 

  • Preheat oven to 400F.
  • In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk or yogurt and hot sauce. Submerge the chicken pieces in the mixture and let soak in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour  (up to 24 hours).
  • In a large, zip-close plastic bag, add the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, black pepper, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Seal the bag and shake until all the ingredients are well-blended.
  • Remove the chicken breasts from the liquid and transfer the pieces directly to the bag with the breadcrumb mixture. Shake the bag until the chicken breasts are evenly coated with the breadcrumbs.
  • Use a nonstick baking sheet or spray lightly with nonstick spray.
  • Take the chicken pieces from the bag and lay them on a nonstick baking sheet or lightly coat the sheet with nonstick spray. Refrigerate, uncovered for 30 minutes.
  • Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and bake for 25- 30 minutes or until cooked through.

Notes

Serve garnished with the lemon quarters.
Pro Tip:
Spray the tops of the pieces with nonstick spray for a crispy crust. Flip the chicken pieces halfway through cooking to crisp both sides.
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Baked Chicken, Fried Chicken

Chef Art’s Unfried Chicken goes great with our Crispy Sweet Potato Fries, which are also baked, not fried. Maybe we should call them Unfried Sweet Potato Fries instead!

Let us know what you think about these recipes and please give us any of your tips for healthier delicious eating.

European Christmas markets are some of our favorite spots to visit when traveling during the holiday season. It should be no surprise that Portugal Christmas for us includes visits to some of the wonderful cities and villages that bring Christmas magic to the air.

We explore big and busy Lisbon Christmas markets to tiny villages where the whole town jumps in. Here are a few of the most interesting and fun Christmas markets in Portugal.

Christmas Markets in Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is the first place most people think of going when they want to find the best Christmas markets in Portugal. And there’s plenty of good reason. There are several major places to go, so depending on how much you want to absorb, you can spend time enjoying each one for its own special personality.

Wonderland Lisboa

This is one of the biggest and most popular Christmas markets in Portugal. And it’s got all the greatest hits that visitors want. Wonderland Lisboa takes up the bulk of Park Eduardo VII with a Santa’s village, Ferris wheel, food trucks, and market stalls.

Wonderland Lisboa Portugal Christmas

 

Christmas music plays throughout the park too, adding to the festive spirit. There are games for kiddies and lots of drink choices for grownups. There are plenty of fun holiday gifts and local craft items to buy, keeping the Christmas spirit alive and well. Best of all, entry is free.

Rossio Christmas Market

In the Baixa part of Lisbon, a tall Christmas tree and Saint Nick’s house set the stage for a plaza full of holiday fun. Wooden huts line the Rossio Christmas market with all kinds of goodies from artisan jewelry and handcrafted gifts to many foods and sweets. It’s fun to sample delicious items as you walk along.

Rossio Christmas Market Lisbon

 

Grab a creamy custard tart called pastel de nata at one booth, then hot chocolate to go with it at another. Enjoy some nuts, dried fruits, and candy, or switch gears with warm sangria or mulled port wine. The market is free and there’s a free Christmas train you can hop on at Rossio Square to ride around the Baixa neighborhood. The many booths and holiday treats rival any other Christmas markets in Europe.

Campo Pequeno Christmas Market

Another of the fabulous Lisbon Christmas markets is the Campo Pequeno Christmas market. This wonderful Portugal Christmas market has two personalities. The first days of the market are a traditional Christmas market with nearly a hundred vendors and all the crafts, gifts, and food you would expect from a traditional European Christmas market.

In the final days the market shifts to a lifestyle and gourmet market. Here you will find luxury items and unique gourmet products. Discover craft beer, gin, and cheeses made by small artisanal producers. There’s a €2 entry fee, but it comes with a €1 discount voucher for purchases over €10.

Porto Christmas Markets

There’s no more festive time to visit the beautiful north of Portugal than around Christmastime. The great city of Porto adds even more colorful visions with lights and markets that make every holiday heart sing. While it might be a bit cooler or wetter outside than down south, Porto is a city well worth enjoying for its celebratory Christmas activities.

Porto Christmas Market At The Crystal Palace

A large and beautiful Christmas market takes place in a beautiful garden setting with gorgeous views of Porto. The Mercado de Natal – Jardins do Palácio de Cristal is a great spot for everyone in the family to get into the Christmas spirit. Enjoy live music concerts, kid-friendly clowns and magicians, carolers, arts & crafts as well as Christmas decorations, toys, nativity scenes, and handcrafted gifts. The food and drinks are a highlight with cookies, sweets, street food, crepes, chocolate, mulled wine, and more.

Christmas Market By Mercado Da Alegria (Joy Market) Batalha

Just look at the faces of people visiting the Christmas Market by Joy Market and you’ll see why it is aptly named. Decorated trees, Christmas lights, fun workshops, and clowns start the cheer. Then 40+ vendors with handmade toys, jewelry, crafts, clothing, and giftable food items keep it going.

Taking over the Batalha Plaza, just about a five-minute walk from Porto’s beautiful Sao Bento train station, the market makes it easy to feel festive. Enjoy the lights and festivities in Porto at this special time.

Magic Of Christmas At WOW (World Of Wine) Vila Nova Da Gaia

A short trip over the bridge south of Porto will reward revelers with a fun and different Portugal Christmas market. World Of Wine (WOW) is a cultural district filled with museums, restaurants, shops, and activities. The holiday season turns WOW into a winter wonderland as well. On November 25th, celebrate the magic of Christmas with a brilliant Christmas tree, wandering elves, live music, youth choirs, and dancers. Visit family museums like The Chocolate Story and Cork Planet or more grownup ones like Pink Palace and The Wine Experience. Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of several restaurants. And explore the shops for trinkets and treasures throughout the season.

Other Portugal Christmas Markets

Christmas markets in Porto and Lisbon Portugal are certainly worth experiencing. But many other places offer Portugal Christmas markets too. Some of them are memorable for their beautiful location. Others because the whole town participates. These are just a few of the Christmas markets in Portugal that we think you would enjoy.

Cascais Christmas Village

A skating rink, Santa Claus house, Christmas train, enchanted forest, face painting, and real reindeer are just a few of the delights in store for visitors to the Cascais Christmas Village. Marechal Carmona Park is transformed into this magical village with music, activities, food, and shopping.

The village is now expanded to include a live nativity scene, complete with camels. The market offers Portuguese handcrafts, pottery, rugs, jewelry, and more. A large food court also supplies plenty of delicious treats to keep you energized for the fun. There is a fee for entry, with a discount for Viver Cascais cardholders.

Óbidos Vila Natal

Óbidos is a magical place any time of the year. So it’s no surprise that Portugal Christmas in the village is even more magical. Óbidos was a wedding gift from King Dinis to his lovely bride. So when you first arrive and see the castle wrapped in a giant red bow, it feels like a holiday romance for the ages.

Obidos Christmas Entrance Portugal Christmas

The village is transformed each holiday season into Óbidos Christmas Village. A skating rink, holiday train, Santa house, roaming characters, and more delight visitors of all ages. This year, the village transforms into the School of Sorcerers. A giant’s house, potions laboratory, magic hall, time travel virtual reality, and court of wizards add to the fun. Several restaurants offer delicious food. Various stands and shops have treats and gifts galore.

Cabeça Aldeia Natal, Seia

Historical villages with homes made out of schist rock (xisto, in Portuguese) can be found in central Portugal. One of the most charming and delightful is Cabeça Christmas Village or Aldeia Natal. What sets this Portugal Christmas village apart is that it is the first 100% eco-sustainable Christmas village in Portugal. All materials used for decorating are taken from nature.

The approximately 170 residents take materials such as vines, leaves, corn stalks, and famous Serra da Estrela wool to create their Christmas decorations. At night, the village lights up with thousands of LED lights, making it also the first LED village in Portugal. Music, plays, films and other entertainment heighten the sense of community here. And the final piece of Christmas hospitality comes as the residents open the doors to their homes, welcoming visitors to share in the joy of Christmas with them.

Celebrate With A Portugal Christmas

We’re ready to celebrate another Christmas in Portugal. For us, it has been a real treat exploring Lisbon Christmas markets, others in Porto, and Christmas markets in Portugal all over. These are just a few of the delightful holiday celebrations awaiting residents and visitors alike.

Obidos Christmas Lights

Don’t forget that much of Portugal from the tiniest village to the biggest city also brings joy with beautiful lights. We wish you a very happy holiday season and invite you to celebrate with us for a Portugal Christmas no matter where in the world you may be.

Blueberry muffins are delicious no matter when or where you have them. We love to have blueberry muffins with a morning cup of coffee or tea. They make a great afternoon snack for a pick-me-up. And, when you need a little something sweet later in the evening muffins with berries are a nice way to satisfy a sweet tooth without digging into the candy jar.

This is a simple recipe for muffins with fruit that highlights the delicious natural flavor. It’s easy to make and you can substitute frozen blueberries if you don’t have fresh ones available making it convenient to use any time.

Here’s a little mindful eating tip:

We love to put them in little paper muffin cup liners.  That way we can easily hold the muffin and peel the paper back slowly as we enjoy it. The scent of the sweet sugar mixes with the tart-sweet scent of the blueberries. The texture is soft and crumbly but also moist. Sit, relax, and enjoy any time. For even more pleasure, pack a few muffins to take out somewhere pretty and peaceful where you can enjoy a view or watch nature. There’s no better way to refresh and renew!

Also, check out our homemade cornbread recipe for muffins that make a great side to savory dishes too!

Blueberry Muffins

Servings 12 standard muffins
These quick and easy muffins are perfect for a sweet treat any time.

Equipment

  • 1 muffin pan we use standard muffin size here but you can make jumbo or mini muffins. Cooking time will need adjusting (see our notes below)
  • 12 paper or foil muffin cups
  • measuring sppons and cups

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (198 g) granulated sugar
  • ¼ tsp table salt or fine sea salt
  • 3-4 Tbsp coarse sugar, raw sugar large crystals (*optional - for crunchy top)
  • 1 large whole egg
  • cup (79 ml) mild-flavored oil such as sunflower, macadamia, or safflower
  • ½ cup (120 ml) milk (can be whole, low-fat, non-dairy and you might need a little more or less (see notes below))
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract (use the good stuff, it will make a difference)
  • 2 cups (200 g) fresh or frozen blueberries (if using frozen, keep frozen and do not thaw first to keep whole)

Instructions 

  • Preheat oven to 375℉ (190℃)
  • Line muffin cups with paper or foil liners
  • Stir together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl
  • In a measuring cup at least 2 cups (473 ml) size, add oil and large egg. Add milk to fill measuring cup to 1¼ cup (296 ml) line.
  • Add the vanilla to the measuring cup and stir to combine well
  • Add wet ingredients mixture to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  • Gently fold in the blueberries. Do not overmix the batter or muffins will come out rubbery.
  • Sprinkle tops with coarse sugar
  • Place muffins in oven on rack in middle and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until tops are not shiny wet and an inserted toothpick in the middle of the muffins does not come out with batter, only crumbs or clean
  • When baked, take muffins out of oven and let cool until you can handle then remove muffins from tin and separate out onto a plate or platter

Notes

  • You can make these in standard, jumbo, or mini-muffin size. Larger muffins may require 5 or more minutes longer to cook, mini-muffins may require about half as long. Check the oven often and be sure to use the toothpick to check for sure. 
  • Frozen blueberries can get runny when they thaw, which will make your muffins muddled looking.  If you use frozen blueberries add them to the batter straight from the freezer.
  • The batter should be thick but spoonable into the cups. If it is too dry, add a little milk, a teaspoon at a time, and if it is too runny, add flour a teaspoon at a time, to get the consistency right.
  • You can make a special treat anytime by serving blueberry muffins with fresh juice, coffee or tea, fresh sliced bananas, or Greek yogurt  
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Keyword: blueberry muffins, blueberry muffins with, muffins with blueberry

Pin It For Later

Blueberry muffin pin

Over the years, we have noticed changes in ourselves, in travel, and in our world. These changes have prompted us to refocus Food Travelist on what we call “Deliciously Mindful Travel.” It’s our new tagline, our approach to discovering the most delicious destinations in the world, and how we look forward to creating a joyful future of exploration in a meaningful, low-impact way. But what exactly does Deliciously Mindful Travel mean? Let’s look at each aspect of this approach and see how it benefits every Food Travelist.

How To Travel Deliciously

Our name Food Travelist says it all. We travel for food. We seek out destinations, restaurants, recipes, products, services, food and beverage experiences. That’s just how we roll. If it isn’t delicious, we probably won’t write about it. If it isn’t part of our taste memory, we probably won’t remember it. We travel with our taste buds and follow our noses to find the best of everything culinary travel has to offer. Even when we stay home, we want to experience the thrill of dining adventure, whether through what we make or what we buy and sometimes even both.

Vienna Christmas Market

 

Are You A Food Travelist?

If you’re a Food Travelist you probably already know what we mean. We talk about many of our favorite trips in terms of the dishes we’ve tasted, the conversations we’ve had over meals or about them, the friends we’ve met through our food-focused explorations and the cultural deep dives we’ve experienced through a universal human connection to food.

Sometimes we don’t wait to talk about our next meal while we’re still enjoying the one that we’re on. Or we’re looking through all the different options for tasting a local snack with a bit of street food already in our hands. We’re always looking at what the folks around us are munching, drinking, or waiting in line for at a cart, stand, truck, or hole-in-the-wall. If you can relate, you’re probably a Food Travelist, just like us.

Food Travel Means Connecting

The food we most seek out in our travels is the product of the location, its history, traditions, geography, resources, and people. It’s the true taste of a destination, the food eaten by the people there. Sure we love a Michelin-starred restaurant and unique fine dining experiences. But our greatest pleasure is discovering delicious dishes prepared by the people who have the deepest connection to the land in which they live.

We love to meet the restaurant owner, chef, fisherman, cheesemaker, farmer, rancher, brewmaster, winemaker, pastry chef, bartender, and all those who bring the freshest and most delicious flavors to our table. We want to hear their stories, get their opinions, and understand their points of view. We view food and drink as a tool for communication, and we want to listen and learn.

Flavors Of The World At Home Too

Because not everyone can get to all of those people and places, we want to share our discoveries here on Food Travelist through stories, recipes, and recommendations that excite your imagination and allow you to travel deliciously too. We all learned through world events like pandemics, climate crises, wars, strikes, and more, that sometimes we also need to bring the world into our homes. We refined our methods, discovered new products, and explored global tastes deliciously at home. Wherever we do it, experiencing the flavors of the world is top of our agenda at Food Travelist.

What Is Mindful Travel?


In our early days, travel often included major destinations and a checklist of attractions. Rushing from one site to another to check everything off the list became an end to itself and we were left with exhaustion and emptiness that, although we had “seen” all of those wonders on our list, we didn’t really have time to “experience” them in a meaningful way. After a while, we came to believe that there were better ways to travel – and to live our lives – that involved slow traveling, paying attention, throwing out the checklists, and seeking to enjoy each experience and each moment to the fullest. In short, we wanted to live and travel more mindfully. Slow travel allows us to do just that.

The Food Travelists cycling through Burgundy.
The Food Travelists cycling through Burgundy.

Over the years the number of people traveling, often to the same desirable places, has become overwhelming. In some cases, overtourism is even causing damage to important historical sites and foundations of cultural heritage. You may have heard about “sustainable travel,” “responsible travel,” “green travel, “eco travel,” and similar concepts. The idea behind all of these ideas is to travel in a way that lessens the destructive impact and increases the positive benefits of travel. They are concerned with traveling to minimize negative consequences on the environment, community, economy, and other facets of destinations we visit and instead bring a positive benefit to them.

Mindfulness Gives Meaning

The concept of mindfulness has also become more familiar in everyday life. Many people who have been stressing themselves out with overbooked days and hyperactive evenings have searched for a way to slow down and actually enjoy their days and nights rather than just get through them. Methods to bring mind and body together, into focus, inserted into daily life, help us take a breath, enjoy each moment, and take pleasure in being alive. This mindful approach also incorporates the idea of “slow travel” and “slow food,” where one resists the urge to experience everything all at once. Instead, the mindful Food Travelist savors the sweetness of individual moments and meals.

Our understanding of “Mindful Travel” embodies all of the above ideas and others. We think of travel as education, inspiration, entertainment, enlightenment, personal growth, contribution, contemplation, connection, refreshment, relaxation, and more.

The Benefits Of Mindful Travel

Mindful travel is the ultimate two-way street. We engage on a journey of discovery and allow all of its beauty to bloom slowly, opening us up to whatever may come. There’s no agenda, no checklist, just awareness of what is happening around us and within us. We interact with those we meet on our journeys with an open mind and heart. Curiosity rules and compassion grounds us. We seek to understand, to connect, to immerse ourselves in the present moment of each experience.

The reason we believe that mindful travel is more important than ever is that our world is groaning around us in so many ways, warning us that we must change our course. We want to be part of the solution to personal and global unrest. The benefits of mindful travel are that we can change the course we are on and save our beautiful world with all its exceptional experiences for future generations. We hope to set an example for how to enjoy delicious travel experiences that are both personally enriching and socially responsible, no matter where in the world we may go.

 

What Does Deliciously Mindful Travel Look Like?

We hope this explanation is appealing and excites you to start thinking about Deliciously Mindful Travel yourself. But, how do you get started? What does Deliciously Mindful Travel look like in practice? We’re glad you asked!

Here are a few key steps you can use in planning your next exciting trip with the Deliciously Mindful Travel approach.

Deliciously Mindful Travel can take you to places that are not on the tip of every tourist’s tongue. In fact, some of our favorite trips have been to places we had never heard of or had not considered for a visit. Places like the tiny island of Nevis or the little town of Cartmel England filled our bellies with spectacular unique eats and in the process captured our hearts as well. We can’t wait to discover more hidden gems on our journeys.

For example, thinking that France is somewhere you’d love to go? Skip Paris and instead taste the phenomenal food and explore the wonders of Toulouse or Gers in the beautiful southwestern part of the country.

Perhaps you’ve got Portugal on your mind (which we totally understand). Zip through Lisbon or Porto and spend your time winding your way through amazing places like Cascais on the coast, the island of Madeira, or the romantic and historical villages in the Center of Portugal. We don’t mean that if you’ve never been to Paris you should never see it. But when visiting a major city like Lisbon, be sure to allow for some tasty day trips as well. And, whenever possible, plan in accordance with our tip number 2 below and then also spend time in less well-trodden locales with even more wonders waiting for you.

2. Travel In The Shoulder Or Off Season For Better Prices And Fewer Crowds.

Wherever you find yourself drawn to for travel, plan to go there when they are not so busy. Summer is often when tourists do the bulk of their travel. Some locations that are well-known are bursting with people so the lines are incredible as are the prices. Spring and autumn, often called the “shoulder season” provide a great alternative in many destinations. The weather is usually still pretty good and the prices reflect the greater availability. Sometimes, the off or low season can also be an option. If you particularly like cold weather for sport or a change of scenery, great deals can often be found. Just be sure to do your homework to make sure that the place you’re interested in doesn’t have a huge surge in tourism at that time or conversely, everything that you want to see or do is closed.


Traveling outside of the major tourist season is great for Deliciously Mindful Travel because you’ll likely have your choice of dining options and attractions with fewer lines or wait times. You’ll also be able to mingle with residents and locals who may be more intrigued by your visit than annoyed by it. Giving yourself a chance to immerse yourself into every meal, every unique food market, and every stroll without watching the clock or wedging yourself in enables you to more consciously enjoy each experience and feel inspired by the feelings it gives you.

3. Ditch Your Checklist And Other Expectations

One of the challenges of travel is having expectations of what you will see, taste, or do and that your expectations will be met. A hallmark of Deliciously Mindful Travel is letting go of those expectations. Let go of the checklist of attractions and instead follow your instincts, the advice of locals you meet along the way, and whatever tickles your fancy when you start immersing yourself in your location. Opening ourselves up to new and unexpected experiences gives us the chance to encounter more authentic and enriching moments we might otherwise miss. You’ll no longer say no to that unique opportunity because if it sounds like fun, you’ll just do it. And allow yourself the time and space to enjoy it fully, without worrying about jumping into the next thing on your list – because you ditched the list!

4. Let The Locals Be Your Guides

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with doing some research on the place you plan on visiting. In fact, we recommend you research it a lot in advance of deciding it’s a destination you can really sink your teeth into, so to speak. But once you arrive let all your research be the background to the present local scene. Be sensitive to what is going on around you. One of the ways we always find the best places to eat is to see if there are local people lined up waiting or inside. The best deals and most authentic flavors are often found in the most unassuming locations.  Even when it comes to which stand to get a snack at the local farmers market, regulars will know where to go. Follow their lead for surprising and delicious meals.

While the hospitality folks will often have recommendations, we prefer to ask people we encounter throughout our journey about where they like to go to eat or what their friends prefer. They don’t always have the same tastes as us, but the more they talk the more ideas they give. Eventually, you’re bound to hit on something you will like. And you can always validate the suggestion by looking at who else is eating there. Don’t forget too that some of the tastiest food we ever get is from trucks or stands on the street. Even if you’re just looking for a snack, street food is great for getting to know the people and flavors of a place.

Thermea relaxing hammocks Winnipeg
Thermea relaxing hammocks

5. Give Yourself Time To Breathe

Even once we master Deliciously Mindful Travel, we can fall back into our old habits of trying to see and do everything. FOMO (fear of missing out) overtakes us and we begin rushing from one hidden gem to another. We have to accept the fact that in order to go deep, we may not be able to go too wide. And, that’s okay. The thrill of discovery is sweetened when we appreciate how wonderful an experience is while we are experiencing it, not worrying about the next wonderful experience.

It can be difficult to start, but it’s important to give yourself permission to go slow. Enjoy the moment, each moment, for what it gives you, and what you give back. Help yourself by taking just a few minutes to stand or sit somewhere that you can see everything that’s going on around you, the beauty or history, the people or landscape, and just breathe it all in. There is nowhere better than where you are. There is nothing you are missing out on if you are fully immersed in what you are experiencing. Allow yourself the luxury of time, time to just relax and be.

Travel journal

Where Will You Go Next?

So, now that you have a better understanding of what we mean by Deliciously Mindful Travel, we hope that it appeals to your sense of adventure as well as your ideas of personal satisfaction. We have begun exploring the roads less traveled, and they truly do make all the difference. We feel good about traveling and hope that we provide as much benefit to the places we explore as they give to us.

We hope you follow us on our journeys. We promise to share stories, recipes, and recommendations that you can use to help you discover your own favorite roads less traveled.

So, that just leaves us with one last question. Where will you go next?

We can’t wait to hear your answers and to explore more Deliciously Mindful Travel with you.

 

What Is An Aperol Spritz?

The Aperol Spritz has experienced a great surge in popularity in recent years. But the idea of creating a fizzy combination drink we now know as a “spritz” actually came to be in the 1800s when some of what is now the Vento region of northern Italy were part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

It is believed that the soldiers and visitors to the region at that time found the wine to be too strong for their delicate taste buds. So they added a splash (or “spritz” in German) of water to lighten it up. The evolution of the spritz then led to adding sparkling instead of flat water. Over time fortified wines and liqueurs found their way into spritzes as well.

Aperol, a bitter-sweet liqueur made with bitter and sweet oranges, rhubarb, gentian root, and other unique ingredients (the actual recipe is still a secret) was the creation of two Italian brothers, Silvio and Luigi Barbieri who spent years developing something special after inheriting their father’s liquor business.

It caught on in Italy and in the 1950s the Aperol Spritz was born around the same time that Aperol made its first television commercial. The taste was a hit and its electric orange color has proven irresistible. When you add a bottle of Aperol to your cabinet, here’s how to make your very own spritz.

Aperol Spritz

Although there are of course many different ways to play with the ingredients of an Aperol Spritz, the official recipe is known as 3-2-1. It’s simple to remember and delicious to enjoy, especially on a hot summer afternoon whether in Venice or anywhere else in the world.

Aperol Spritz

Although there are of course many different ways to playwith the ingredients of an Aperol Spritz, the official recipe is known as3-2-1. It’s simple to remember and delicious to enjoy, especially on a hotsummer afternoon whether in Venice or anywhere else in the world.

Ingredients

  • 3 parts Prosecco
  • 2 parts Aperol
  • 1 splash Sodawater or any unflavored sparkling water
  • 1 Fresh orange slice for garnish, optional

Instructions 

  • Fill alarge wine glass (or other glass of your choosing) with ice cubes.
  • Add 3oz. (or 3 parts) chilled Prosecco.
  • Add 2oz. (or 2 parts) Aperol liqueur.
  • Stirgently.
  • Topwith a “spritz” (1 oz, a splash, or 1 part) of chilled soda water or flavorless sparkling water
  • Garnish with slice of fresh orange, if desired.

Notes

Options and Variations

While a classic Aperol Spritz is perfect in the eyes of some, others like to experiment and mix things up a bit. In the spirit of adventure that goes naturally with our dabbling behind the bar, here are a few ideas for you.
  1. Skip the soda and just use Prosecco or other sparkling wine for the spritz.
  2. Use grapefruit soda instead of plain soda water.
  3. Ginger beer can make a fun twist in place of the Prosecco and soda water for the fizz.
  4. Try a sparkling rosé instead of Prosecco.
  5. Add some syrup from Luxardo cherries and a couple of cherries to the garnish. The syrup will enhance the sweetness a bit while the Luxardo cherries add a nice contrast to the garnish.
Course: Drinks

Mezzo-Mezzo Spritz

This is our own spritz twist provided by the bartender at the Palazzo Paruta Venezia where we stayed during our most recent visit to Venice. Aperol entered the Campari Group’s portfolio of brands in 2003, so it’s no surprise they play well together. Using them both in the c context of a spritz seems only natural (and tastes like a dream).

The herbaceous bite of the  Campari is moderated by the sweetness of the Aperol. It’s neither too bitter nor too sweet, in our opinion. And the color is absolutely delightful. Please note, this is not to be confused with a cocktail known as a “Mezzo e Mezzo” which uses a unique blend of different liqueurs in an aperitif.

Mezo-Mezo Spritz

Ingredients

  • 1 oz Aperol
  • 1 oz Campari
  • 3 oz Prosecco, chilled
  • 1 Splash (spritz) of soda water or any unflavored sparklingwater
  • 1 Orange slice and maraschino or Luxardo cherry for garnish,optional

Instructions 

  • Fill a large wine glass (or other glass of your choosing) with ice cubes.
  • Add 3 oz. (or 3 parts) chilled Prosecco
  • Add 1 oz. (or 1 part) Aperol liqueur.
  • Add 1 oz. (or 1 part) Campari liqueur
  • Stirgently.
  • Top with a “spritz” (1 oz, a splash, or 1 part) of chilled soda water or flavorless sparkling water.
  • Garnish with slice of fresh orange and maraschino or Luxardo cherry, if desired.
Course: Drinks
Keyword: Cocktails

The Aperitivo Experience

One of the best things we discovered in our travels to Italy is the aperitivo experience. An aperitivo technically is an aperitif, a beverage designed to open the appetite before dinner. But over the years, the concept of aperitivo has turned into a ritual, the defining end of the business workday and welcoming of the personal time in the evening that is to come. And more than just a drink, the aperitivo experience now includes food as well.

Restaurants, bars, hotels, and all sorts of spots around Italy offer aperitivo as a way to illustrate their hospitality and talents. Just like the tailgate picnics in the United States, they can range from the simplest little bites to full-on banquets. Aperitivo is not meant to be synonymous with Happy Hour, but the customary time may be around the same.

Aperitivo Drinks

Drinks can be nonalcoholic but the most traditional appetite-whetters are spritz drinks, vermouth,  and other bitters. But these days, just about anything goes including beer, wine, Prosecco, Negroni and other cocktails.

Aperitivo Eats

What can you expect to find on the plate at aperitivo time? Just about anything you can consume as a nibble. Most common are cured meats, cheeses, canapés, nuts, grissini (breadsticks), olives, potato chips, pizza bites, and taralli (mini bagel-shaped crackers).

But really, there is such a wide variety that just about anything may show up on an aperitivo table. The point is to enjoy, and we’ll put up some easy recipes for your own aperitivo experience in another post soon. In the meantime, enjoy your choice of these delicious Venetian cocktails.

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Aperol spritz pin

Venice Italy Cocktails Are Sparkling

When visiting Venice Italy, one of the first things you must do is order a bellini cocktail. It’s easy to get caught up in all the dazzling sites there are to see there so taking a seat and drinking it all in makes for a good start.

From the magnificent Saint Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace to the dreamy sites of gondolas gliding on the Grand Canal, romance takes hold of the heart.


But all that excitement and romance are bound to make you thirsty, so we wanted to share our recipes for three of the most popular (and tasty) cocktails you can try in Venice or at home. They all happen to contain Prosecco, the delightfully fizzy sparkling wine that Italy calls its own. If you don’t happen to have Prosecco, you can improvise with your favorite sparkling wine.

These bellinis are all quite easy to make and I provide you with some different ways to prepare them that make it fun as well. Choose your favorites and enjoy!

Classic Bellini

This is a classic sparkling fruity drink often served with breakfast or brunch. But you can enjoy it anytime. It was the creation of Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of Harry’s Bar, in Venice, Italy, around 1948. In its simplest form, it consists of 2 parts prosecco to 1 part white peach puree. He used white peaches in the original recipe.

These days, white peaches are not so common, so you can use whatever peach is your favorite. Prepared nectars and purees can be found year-round making it easier to enjoy outside the prime peach harvest months. We love them served in a champagne flute.

Sparkling Venetian Bellini Cocktail

This is a classic sparkling fruity drink often served withbreakfast or brunch. But you can enjoy it anytime. This prosecco cocktail is the creation of Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of Harry’s Bar, in Venice, Italy, around 1948. Inits simplest form, it consists of 2 parts prosecco to 1 part white peach puree.He used white peaches in the original recipe. These days, white peaches are notso common, so you can use whatever peach is your favorite. Prepared nectars andpurees can be found year round making it easier to enjoy outside the primepeach harvest months. We love them served in a champagne flute.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Peach nectar or puree
  • 4 oz Chilled Prosecco
  • Peach slice and fresh mint for garnish

Instructions 

  • Fill champagne flute with peach nectar or puree.
  • Add chilled Prosecco slowly (it will bubble up as you add it).
  • Stirgently and top with 1 slice fresh peach and sprig of mint garnish, if desired.

Notes

Options And Variations

You can punch up the sweetness, fruitiness, or booziness of this classic Bellini in a variety of ways. Here are some options you can choose from to make the drink your own.
  1. Add 1 oz. peach schnapps for more potent peachy goodness.
  2. Add 1 oz. of vodka for a stronger drink.
  3. Mash fresh peach slices and add to the nectar or puree for more fruit forward flavor.
  4. Add 1 oz. of simple syrup to sweeten the cocktail.
  5. Choose a demi-sec Prosecco or sparkling wine instead of Brut to make it sweeter.
Course: Drinks

Frozen Bellini

Sometimes an icy, frosty beverage is what calls to us in the heat of the day. This frozen version of the Bellini cocktail is the perfect choice for chilling out all the way. You’ll need to do this one in your blender and probably want to enjoy this with a friend, so here’s a recipe for two.

Frozen Sparkling Bellini

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 Cup Frozen Peach Slices
  • 1/2 Cup Peach Nectar of puree
  • 1 Cup Prosecco Chilled
  • Raw sugar and lime wedge to rim the glasses, optional
  • Fresh peach slices and mint sprigs for garnish, optional

Instructions 

  • If youwant to add a little jazz to your glass, spread some raw sugar on a smallplate, rub the edges of the champagne flutes with the lime, then dip the rimsin the raw sugar to coat evenly. You can set aside the flutes while you makethe drinks or skip this step.
  • Putthe frozen peach slices, nectar, and Prosecco into the blender and blend until smooth.
  • Pourfrozen mixture into the champagne flutes and garnish as desired.
  • Add a splash of vodka, light rum, or cachaça to kick up the punch
  • Add some simple syrup to sweeten.
  • Add afresh strawberry, raspberry, or cherry garnish.
Course: Drinks

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Bellini Pin

One of our favorite ways to get the vitamins and minerals our bodies need to be healthy is through fun and easy recipes that put the veggies in the background. Healthy zucchini bread has to be near the top of our list. This super tasty and fun way to sneak in the ubiquitous zucchini that summer brings is a real winner that pleases even the most demanding non-veggie eaters. Try this easy zucchini bread recipe at home and you’ll be surprised by how many requests you get to make it again and again.

Healthy Zucchini Bread
Healthy Zucchini Bread

You can adjust the spices to suit your tastes. Some people double up on cinnamon and that’s all they use. Others include a variety of cinnamon, allspice, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and more. We even know some folks who like to use pumpkin pie spice to give their zucchini bread a bit of fall flavor.

Whatever you do, be sure that when you shred your zucchini that you leave all the juice with it for this zucchini bread recipe. That’s part of what makes it so nice and moist.

We enjoy topping our healthy zucchini bread with light cream cheese, ricotta, Sun Butter, tahini, or other nut butters.

Add Your Favorite Toppings
Add Your Favorite Toppings

Zucchini bread is great for breakfast or a snack, even just all by itself. It’s filling with fiber, making it a good way to avoid the hunger monster between meals.

This is a pretty quick and easy way to enjoy zucchini with a touch of sweetness. Let us know what you think!

Easy Zucchini Bread Is A Great Snack
Easy Zucchini Bread Is A Great Snack

Healthy Zucchini Bread

Enjoy this moist and tasty, slightly sweet zucchini bread recipe at breakfast, for a snack, or any time of day.

Zucchini Bread Is Nice For Breakfast
Zucchini Bread Is Nice For Breakfast

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup neutral oil (vegetable, macadamia nut, etc.)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
About 2 cups grated zucchini, 1 medium-large squash

Make A Delicious Loaf In No Time
Make A Delicious Loaf In No Time

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Generously grease the bottom and sides of a 9×5 loaf pan.
3. Grate the zucchini into a bowl using a box or straight grater with medium or large holes. Do not peel the zucchini and do retain all of the liquid that results from shredding.
4. Combine flour, spices, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl and stir to blend.

Moist And Delicious
Moist And Delicious

5.  In a medium bowl, use a whisk or fork to thoroughly combine the oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
6.  Add in the grated zucchini to the wet mixture and stir to integrate.
7.  Pour the wet zucchini mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined – don’t overmix or your zucchini bread will turn out rubbery.
8. Place batter into the greased loaf pan.
9. Bake on center rack in oven for 60-70 minutes until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. When fully baked leave to cool thoroughly before removing from pan or it might stick to bottom or sides.

A Favorite Among Zucchini Recipes
A Favorite Among Zucchini Recipes

You can also add other things to this easy zucchini bread recipe if you like. A few popular additions include chocolate chips, golden raisins or other dried berries and fruit, chopped nuts, and coconut flakes. Make it however you like it.

If you like zucchini, try out our Zucchini Spaghetti recipe too!

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We loved exploring Amsterdam food in the capital city of the Netherlands. Many Dutch specialties like Pannenkoeken (formerly spelled Pannekoeken) and Poffertjes have names that twist the tongue. But trying all these amazing treats is worth the challenge. We want to share a few of our favorite Amsterdam food finds. And if the Food Travelist in you wants to enjoy these delicious bites at home, we’ve included links to our recipes for some of the best so you can give them a try.

Pannenkoeken

If you like pancakes, then Pannenkoeken will take you to your happy place. These Dutch pancakes are large and can take up a whole plate if left flat. They’re thinner than an American pancake but not as thin as a French crepe and either served with toppings or rolled with fillings. Oddly enough, they’re not particularly a breakfast dish. With Dutch pancakes Amsterdam diners eat them all day long.

Pannenkoeken

Pannenkoeken can be served as a savory or sweet dish. When we were exploring Amsterdam food in the fall, we saw a wide variety of toppings. Two of our favorites were a combination of apples, bacon, and cheese for a savory touch and bananas, strawberries, and chocolate sauce for a bit of the sweet treatment. Stroop syrup is found all over Amsterdam and provides a wonderful thick, sticky, sweet drizzle that works well as complement to any pannenkoeken style. We got the best pancakes Amsterdam has to offer at Upstairs Pannenkoekenhuis, a fun and funky spot where your climb up the narrow stairway is an experience in itself.

To make this treat at home, try our easy Pannenkoeken Recept (Dutch for recipe). (link)

Frietjes

We love fried potatoes and so do the Dutch. Many of us grew up with someone asking, “Would you like fries with that?” But Amsterdam fries or frietjes can be the main attraction. With so many Amsterdam restaurants offering sandwiches and burgers, it surprised us to learn that there were stands everywhere selling literally nothing but fries and sauces. Though food historians debate whether fries originated in France or Belgium, in Amsterdam they have been given a special place among Dutch foods to be enjoyed by all.

Frietjes at Mannekin Pis in Amsterdam

Frietjes, sometimes called patatjes by locals, are a serious matter and heated debates have been known to erupt when discussing the best fries Amsterdam makes. While Canadians have their poutine, loaded fries with cheese curds and gravy, the Dutch have patatje oorlong or “war fries.” These Dutch fries are topped with mayo and satay, an Indonesian sweet and salty peanut sauce. Then the whole thing is topped with diced raw onions. The fries themselves are cut rather thick and fried twice, giving them a great crisp outside and tender inside. We loved the sauce dispensers at Mannekin Pis, with over two dozen sauces to try. It’s easy to get obsessed with frietjes, a great street food Amsterdam visitors should try.

Bitterballen

A favorite Amsterdam food especially at snacktime, bitterballen are bite-sized fried meatballs. At the center they have a mixture of meat stew thickened with roux, which when cooled is rolled into balls, breaded, and deep fried. Often served with a mustard dipping sauce, bitterballen are a favorite accompaniment to a nice cold beer. The texture of the soft inside makes a surprising contrast with the crunchy coating. These little bites are easy to pop in your mouth after taking a bike ride or while relaxing by one of the picturesque canals in the city.

Bitterballen

Traditionally, bitterballen use beef. But they could be made with other meat such as pork or even turkey. Sometimes other kroketten (Dutch croquettes) are served with bitterballen. These are typically made in a log shape containing, cheese, potato, vegetables, shrimp, or other ingredients then breaded and friend the same way. If you’re a grazer then a bowl full of bitterballen together with some kroketten and frietjes would make a perfect meal.

Enjoy bitterballen wherever you are with our easy bitterballen recipe. (link)

Gouda Cheese And Edam Cheese

There’s no doubt that any exploration of Amsterdam food has to include some of its amazing cheese. And two of the most famous types, Gouda cheese, and Edam cheese come in an infinite variety of styles and flavors worth tasting. Aged and smoked Gouda adds a deliciously rich dimension to the cheese flavors. And both Edam cheese and Gouda cheese can be found with additional flavors such as herbs and spices. Smoked Gouda has a unique flavor that many people enjoy too.

Amsterdam has no shortage of places to try or buy these great cheeses, and many others. One of our favorites is the Old Amsterdam cheese store. Like many other Amsterdam cheese shops, they offer plenty of free tastes so you can try them before you buy. The one cheese that most tickled our tastebuds was the aged Gouda. Full of crystals that result from the aging process and with a rich, buttery flavor, this cheese remains one of our favorite Dutch snacks.

Poffertjes

For a different take on Amsterdam pancakes, poffertjes are bite-sized fun. A poffertje may be described as a fluffy little pancake or like a small yeast donut. They make a wonderful dish for Sunday brunch or a great as snack or dessert anytime. A popular treat, poffertjes can be found at Amsterdam food markets and Amsterdam restaurants alike.

Poffertjes

Commonly made with buckwheat flour in the Netherlands, they can be made with all-purpose flour as well, and are most often topped with good butter and powdered sugar, but more recent versions can add toppings like fruit jam or Nutella.  Any survey of Amsterdam food should include at least one version of these tiny but mighty sweet bites.

Traditionally, these little round puffy pancakes are made using a poffertjespan (a dimpled poffertjes pan), but our recipe offers some suggestions for how to get around that if you don’t have one available.  (link)

Stamppot

The national dish of the Netherlands, stamppot is the ultimate comfort food. There are a lot of variations depending on whether it includes meat, vegetables, or a combination. But common to all varieties is a mashup of potatoes and something. Hollandse pot includes potatoes, vegetables, and meat, while hutspot includes potatoes and carrots. Sometimes the stamppot will be served with rookworst, a smoked sausage. We tried several versions of stamppot at De Blauwe Hollander, a traditional restaurant in Amsterdam’s Leidesplein neighborhood. It’s a great place to try many Dutch specialties in one place, and the atmosphere is charming. It’s a very popular place, though so be sure to make your reservation in advance.

Stamppot
Stamppot


It is said that Stamppot originated when Spanish troops occupying the Netherlands in the 1500s were defeated and abandoned their food, a stamppot of meat, potatoes, and vegetables which the hungry Dutch ate with pleasure. The end of the war came with the Liberation of Lieden, and the day is still celebrated on October 3rd every year, including this traditional dish.

There’s no need to wait for a holiday to enjoy stamppot, though. Try our recipe for this hearty Dutch dish anytime you like. (link)

Stroopwafel

Recently it seems that stroopwafels are everywhere. They have shown up on airplanes as a snack, in coffeeshops as a sweet side addition, and on the shelves of stores with cookies and treats. And we’re happy that the stroopwafel has broken through into the global cuisine scene. At their best, the stroopwafel is gooey caramel sandwiched between thin waffle-like wafers. Served hot and freshly made at places like Albert Cuypmarkt (Albert Cuyup Market) and other markets, stands, shops, and cafés all over, it’s hard to resist this sweet combination.

Stroopwafel

Sometimes, the stroopwafel is a small, bite-size treat, other times it’s the perfect size to put over your cup of tea or coffee, which then heats it up so that the caramel becomes warm again. The fresh stroopwafels made at the markets, however, tend to be big, ooey gooey monsters, that require a whole lot of napkins to capture the hot caramel before it gets all over. Originally created in the city of Gouda, stroopwafels can be found all over the Netherlands, and increasingly around the world. The combination of crispy, chewy, and gooey textures with the buttery sweet flavor make for an undeniably rich treat. They’re messy but they’re good!

A popular brand of stroopwafel you can try at home is Daelman’s. (amazon affiliate link) They come in various packages and different sizes, so you can choose what looks good to you. We like to warm the original caramel ones over our coffee and tea mugs for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up or sweet treat before bed. Some of the cute packages also make for a great gift!

Pannenkoeken, frietjes, bitterballen, Gouda cheese and Edam cheese, poffertjes, stamppot and stroopwafel are just a few of the great flavors we enjoyed while we were in Amsterdam. There are so many flavors to explore that we will be back to Amsterdam in the spring so we can try even more dishes on the great Amsterdam food scene. In the meantime, we hope you’ll give some of our recipes a try and let us know how you like them. Remember, wherever you are in the world, you can always treat yourself to the tastes of travel at home and enjoy the world on your plate.

On our visit to Amsterdam, we discovered that many Dutch food specialties have been brought to the Netherlands through an interesting history. 

Certain tasty snacks, such as crispy-coated, meat-filled, round bitterballen that are enjoyed all over the country and by visitors as well are actually the result of food challenges during wartime.

As Food Travelists, we explore the cultural cross-connections we find in food around the world. And how to make delicious Dutch bitterballen is an interesting example.

How To Make Delicious Dutch Bitterballen

Bitterballen History

The history of the bitterbal (singular) reveals that it actually wasn’t the Dutch who invented it. During the 16th century when the Dutch battled the Spanish for independence during the 80 Years war, ingredients for their usual Spanish tapas were hard to find. Innovative as chefs need to be sometimes, these kitchen warriors experimented with ingredients they could get their hands on.

They learned about ragout, the meat and bread mixture inside the bitterballen, which had been around since ancient times. Then through ingenuity and a desire for that special crunch that everyone loves, they rolled ragout in breadcrumbs, popped it into a pan full of oil, and gave them a good fry. In the best tradition of pantry cooking they created a tasty snack with what they had and bitterballen were born.

How Are Bitterballen Served

Traditionally, bitterballen were served with jenever, a Dutch juniper and herb-flavored liquor similar to gin. Now you will often find beer to be a favorite beverage to accompany them. Bitterballen, which contain meat, have become part of the snack scene along with “kroketten,” croquettes of cheese or vegetables. 

While kroketten are in a log shape, bitterballen have a meatball-like appearance. They make a great snack or an appetizer along with your favorite dipping sauces. Mustard is a time-honored choice, but you could mix things up with difffernt dips like satay, bbq, spiced ketchup, aioli, or whatever you like.

Bringing The Taste of Travel Home

Being highly experienced food travelers, we always try to find ways of bringing the tastes of travel home. And we think that Dutch bitterballen make an interesting appetizer for any dinner or party. In this article, we’ll provide you with a detailed recipe on how to make delicious Dutch Bitterballen you can create these savory bites of goodness in the comfort of your own home.

Bitterballen

Servings 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter
  • 3/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 cups Beef Broth
  • 1/2 cup Chopped Cooked Beef
  • 1/4 cup Each Finely diced onion, celery, and carrot.
  • 2 tbsp Finely Chopped Parsley
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • 2 Eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups Fine Breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable Oil for frying

Instructions 

  • Start by melting the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and stir constantly until the mixture turns golden brown, which should take about 5 minutes.
  • Gradually whisk in the beef broth until the mixture is smooth.
  • Add the cooked beef, onion, celery, carrot, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined.
  • Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it becomes thick and bubbly, which should take about 10 minutes.
  • Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Once it has cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until it is firm.
  • Beat the eggs in a shallow dish. Place the breadcrumbs in another shallow dish.
  • Using a spoon, scoop out small balls of the chilled mixture and roll them into balls. Dip each ball into the beaten eggs, then coat it in the breadcrumbs.
  • Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the balls in batches until they are golden brown, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
  • Remove the balls from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels.

Notes

Tips for Success

  • It’s important to chill the mixture thoroughly before rolling it into balls. This will make it easier to handle and prevent the balls from falling apart.
  • A high-quality beef broth will give your bitterballen the best flavor.
  • Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the bitterballen. If it’s not hot enough, the balls may fall apart or become greasy.
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: Dutch
Keyword: Bitterballen

 See our serving suggestions below and enjoy!

Tips for Success

  • It’s important to chill the mixture thoroughly before rolling it into balls. This will make it easier to handle and prevent the balls from falling apart.
  • A high-quality beef broth will give your bitterballen the best flavor.
  • Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the bitterballen. If it’s not hot enough, the balls may fall apart or become greasy.

Variations and Allergen-free Alternatives

  • While traditional bitterballen are made with beef, you can substitute any meat you like, such as pork, turkey, or chicken.
  • Feel free to add some herbs or spices to either the filling or the coating. Thyme, nutmeg, and bay leaf are popular choices.
  • For a vegetarian version, use cheese, mushrooms, or your favorite root vegetables and treat them like stewed meat. Be sure to remove excess water from the cooked veggies to keep the filling from being too moist. You can use vegetable broth and vegetarian egg substitute in the recipe for a vegan option and it will still taste great.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute your favorite gluten-free flour and coating mixes.


Bitterballen Serving Suggestions

If you want to have a fun Dutch dinner, serve bitterballen with some cubes of Dutch Edam cheese and Gouda cheese along with some pickles and a variety of sauces. Beer makes a great beverage accompaniment as well.

For a great main course, check out our authentic Dutch stamppot recipe. And finish off your meal with the sweet little pancakes called poffertjes. Add to the atmosphere with tulips, blue and white plates, and windmill or bicycle decorations.

Beer and gin drinks to go along with the appetizers and the meal. Some Dutch beers like Heineken, Amstel, and Grolsch are widely available in many other countries.

We hope you enjoyed learning how to make delicious Dutch bitterballen at home.

How To Make Delicious Dutch Bitterballen

 

​Try Some Of Our Other Dutch Recipes!

Dutch food is as much fun to make as it is to eat. That’s why were inspired to try our hand at some other traditional Dutch dish recipes like stamppot (a hearty mashed potato and vegetable dish), pannenkoeken  (large, thin pancakes served savory or sweet), and poffertjes (tasty puffy mini-pancakes).

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Bitterballen recipe pin

When visiting Amsterdam we fell in love with many of the local dishes, and wanted to share the little Poffertjes Dutch mini-pancakes recipe. Poffertjes are a traditional Dutch treat that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. These mini pancakes are light, fluffy, and delicious.

They’re typically served with powdered sugar and butter, but you can also add other toppings like fruit, Nutella, or whipped cream.

Jump to Recipe

History Of Poffertjes

Poffertjes have a long and fascinating history in Dutch food culture. The exact origin of poffertjes is somewhat shrouded in mystery, but it’s believed that they were first created in the Netherlands in the 17th century. At the time, Dutch bakers were experimenting with new types of pancakes, and poffertjes were born out of this culinary innovation.

Early versions of poffertjes were made by pouring batter onto the hot plates of a stove and flipping them with a fork. Over time, the recipe evolved to include yeast and other ingredients, and the distinctive poffertjes pan was developed to make them into the small, round distinctive shape we now recognize.

In Amsterdam, poffertjes are closely associated with the city’s rich culinary traditions. They’re a popular street food, sold by vendors at markets and festivals throughout the year.  

Small but tasty poffertjes.

One of the most famous places to enjoy poffertjes in Amsterdam is at the Poffertjeskraam in the Albert Cuyp Market. This iconic food stall has been serving up delicious poffertjes for more than 100 years and is a great spot for anyone looking to experience the true flavor of Amsterdam.

Despite their popularity in the Netherlands, poffertjes remained relatively unknown outside of the country until the mid-20th century. However, with the rise of international travel and the growth of global cuisine, poffertjes have since gained a following around the world.

In recent years, Dutch expats have been introducing the treat to new audiences. Today, you can find poffertjes in cities from London to New York, often served with creative twists on the traditional preparations and toppings.

Whether you’re enjoying poffertjes on the streets of Amsterdam or in your own kitchen, this beloved Dutch treat is a delicious reminder of the country’s rich culinary heritage.

Poffertjes Recipe

To make poffertjes, you’ll need a special pan that has small, shallow cavities. You can find these pans online or at specialty kitchen stores. To make poffertjes without a poffertjes pan, see our expert recommendations for alternatives below the recipe.

Here’s our easy and delicious poffertjes recipe just for you.

Poffertjes Dutch Mini-Pancakes Recipe

Servings 2 people
These delightfully small pancakes are delicious and fun to eat.

Ingredients

  • 1 Cup All-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 3/4 cup Warm Milk
  • 2 tbsp Melted Butter
  • 1 Egg
  • Powdered Sugar and butter. (For serving.)

Instructions 

  • In alarge bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and egg.
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
  • Cover the bowl with a clean dish towel and let the batter rest in a warm, draft-freeplace for about 30 minutes. The batter should rise and become bubbly.
  • Heat the poffertjes pan over medium heat. Brush each cavity with melted butter.
  • Use a small spoon or a piping bag to fill each cavity about 2/3 full with batter.
  • Cook the poffertjes for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they're goldenbrown and cooked through.
  • Remove the poffertjes from the pan and serve them hot with powdered sugar and butter.

Notes

Enjoy your delicious poffertjes! They’re best served fresh and hot, so be sure to eat them right away. You can also experiment with different toppings and flavors to create your own unique twist on this classic Dutch treat.
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Dutch
Keyword: Breakfast, Mini-Pancakes, Pancakes, Poffertjes

No Pan? No Problem!

If you’re craving poffertjes but don’t have a poffertjes pan, don’t worry! There are a few substitute options that you can try.

Mini Muffin Pan

One option is to use a mini muffin pan. While the shape won’t be exactly the same, you can still achieve a similar size and texture.

Grease the muffin cups with butter and fill them about 2/3 full with batter. Bake them in the oven at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Ebelskiver Pan

Another option is to use an ebelskiver pan, which is similar to a poffertjes pan but with deeper cavities. The ebelskiver pan will give you a similar shape and texture to poffertjes. Fill the cavities with batter and cook them according to the poffertjes recipe instructions.

Griddle or Frying Pan

If you don’t have either of the above pans, you can use a griddle or frying pan and go for it free-form. Heat the pan over medium-high heat and melt some butter in the pan. Use a small spoon or piping bag to drop the batter onto the pan in small rounds. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

No matter which substitute option you choose, be sure to watch the poffertjes carefully as they cook, since cooking times may vary based on the type of pan you use. And don’t forget to serve them hot with powdered sugar and butter for a delicious treat!

Poffertjes Dutch Mini-Pancakes Recipe Variations

Poffertjes are often made with all-purpose flour and served with butter and powdered sugar, but there are also many delicious variations on this classic recipe. Here are some of our favorite suggestions to mix things up a bit.

Different Flour

One variation is to use different types of flour in the batter. Buckwheat flour gives the poffertjes a slightly nutty flavor. Try whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. You can also combine flours to get a unique texture and taste.

Sweet Variations

If you’re a fan of poffertjes, you’ll be delighted to know that there are many variations of this delicious Dutch treat to explore. You can make additions to the batter itself or change up the toppings. For something really different, go for both! Here are a few of our favorite creative suggestions. Try some of these or come up with your own ways to enjoy poffertjes.

Chocolate

For a decadent twist on the classic recipe, add cocoa powder or chocolate chips to the batter. Top with whipped cream and chocolate syrup for an indulgent treat.

Apple Cinnamon

Add grated apple and a dash of cinnamon to the batter for a cozy fall-inspired version of poffertjes. Top with a drizzle of maple syrup or caramel sauce.

Lemon Poppy Seed

For a tangy and refreshing twist, add lemon zest and poppy seeds to the batter. Serve with a dollop of lemon curd and fresh berries.

Matcha Poffertjes

Add matcha powder to the batter for a trendy and delicious variation. Top with a scoop of green tea ice cream and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.

Red Velvet Poffertjes

Add red food coloring and cocoa powder to the batter for a vibrant and decadent version of poffertjes. Top with cream cheese frosting and sprinkles for a fun and festive treat.

Coconut 

Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist. Top with sliced bananas and a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Peanut Butter

Swirl creamy peanut butter into the batter for a nutty and satisfying version of poffertjes. Top with chopped peanuts and a drizzle of honey.

Blueberry Lemon 

Add fresh blueberries and lemon zest to the batter for a bright and fruity variation. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Pumpkin Spice 

Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice to the batter for a cozy fall-inspired version of poffertjes. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Honey Lavender 

Infuse the batter with dried lavender and drizzle with honey for a fragrant and elegant twist on the classic recipe.

Savory Variations

While poffertjes are traditionally served sweet, they can also be made into a delicious and savory treat. Here are some ideas for savory poffertjes.

Cheese

Add grated cheese to the batter for a savory and satisfying twist. Top with a dollop of sour cream and chives for an appetizer that’s sure to please.

Bacon

Add chopped bacon to the batter for a smoky and savory version of poffertjes. Top with a fried egg and a drizzle of hot sauce for a breakfast-inspired treat.

Spinach and Feta

Add chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese to the batter for a Mediterranean-inspired version of poffertjes. Top with a dollop of tzatziki sauce for a refreshing finish.

Mushroom and Thyme

Add sautéed mushrooms and fresh thyme to the batter for a savory and earthy twist. Top with a dollop of crème fraîche for a luxurious finish.

Herb and Garlic

Add fresh herbs and garlic to the batter for a flavorful and aromatic variation. Serve with a dollop of herb butter for a rich and indulgent treat.

These are just a few ideas for savory poffertjes. You can even combine several ingredients like bacon and cheese together for fun. With their soft, fluffy texture and versatile flavor profile, poffertjes can be customized to suit your tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, there’s a poffertjes recipe out there that’s sure to delight you.

Poffertjes For Special Diets

Even if you have food allergies, restrictions, or sensitivities, you can still make tasty poffertjes at home.

For vegan versions, substitute your favorite nondairy products for the milk, butter, and egg in the recipes. Almond and oat milk are popular choices.

If your diet is gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend to create a version of the dish that’s suitable for your dietary restrictions.

Where To Try Poffertjes In Amsterdam

If you’re visiting Amsterdam and want to try authentic Dutch poffertjes, there are many places where you can indulge in this delicious treat. Here are a few suggestions for where to try poffertjes in Amsterdam.

The Pancake Bakery

Located in the heart of Amsterdam, The Pancake Bakery is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. They serve a variety of sweet and savory pancakes, including traditional poffertjes. Their poffertjes are made fresh to order and served with butter and powdered sugar.

Albert Cuyp Market

This vibrant outdoor market is a great place to sample a variety of Dutch treats, including poffertjes. There are several vendors selling freshly made poffertjes, served hot off the griddle with your choice of toppings. Albert Cuyp Market is regularly open Monday through Saturday 9:30am to 5:00pm, and is closed Sundays and holidays.

Lanskroon Bakery

The historic Lanskroon Bakery has been serving delicious Dutch pastries since 1902. In addition to their famous stroopwafels, they have wonderful pastries and serve poffertjes topped with whipped cream and powdered sugar.

The Pancake Club

What started as a seasonal food market stall in 1993 has blossomed into a full-time family business. The Pancake Club serves a variety of Dutch specialties including little puffy mini-pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar. For extra indulgence you can order them with strawberries and cream. Or go for broke and order “the pancake club version” that adds ice cream as well.

Whether you’re enjoying poffertjes while traveling in Amsterdam or bringing the tastes of travel to your table at home, we hope you have fun with our easy-to-make and even easier-to-enjoy recipe. Try some of the variations and let us know what flavors you like the best!

Check Out More Dutch Recipes!

If you are looking for some other fun recipes to try at home, check out our recipes for other traditional Dutch dishes like stamppot (a hearty mashed potato and vegetable dish), pannenkoeken (large, thin pancakes served savory or sweet), and bitterballen (crispy little meatballs).

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