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September 30th is the official day of Austrian beer

For this reason, we have compiled 10 facts from the beer country Austria. And since the beer that is so popular in Austria not only tastes great from the glass, but also from the plate, we also have the right recipes for cooking and baking with beer!

1. Regionality
Austria has 243 domestic breweries, 123 of which are pubs and house breweries.

2. Varieties
There are over 1000 different beers in Austria – the variety and variety of tastes are unique.

3. Brewery density
There is one brewery for every 37,000 inhabitants, which means that Austria has one of the highest concentrations of breweries in the world.

4. Total output
In 2016, the total output of beer was around 9.5 million hectoliters. That’s the equivalent of 1.9 billion jugs (0.5 liters)!

5. Brewing New Year’s Eve
Based on the historic Brausilvester, September 30th is the official day of Austrian beer.

6. Thirst for beer
On average, every Austrian drinks around 103.2 liters of beer a year. This puts us in second place behind the Czechs in terms of per capita consumption.

7. Nation’s Favorite
The most popular type of beer among Austrians is the Maerzen/Lager beer.

8. Beery knowledge
Austria, more precisely the Association of Breweries, was the first country to develop a certified three-stage training program for beer sommeliers.

9. Treasury

Austria’s brewers let the cash register ring. In 2016, beer flushed around €700 million into the domestic state coffers.

10. Natural product
Local raw materials are trumps! In 2016, around 180,000 tons of malting barley and around 480 tons of hops from Austrian agriculture were processed.

The East African country is not only one of the main producers of delicious coffee beans, but also cultivates its own special coffee culture. The typical Ethiopian coffee ceremony, the so-called jebena buna, is not for coffee drinkers in a hurry. Here you drink three cups of deep black coffee in a row within one session.

And the preparation of the coffee ceremony can also take a lot of time: the green beans are often washed extensively by the women before they are roasted over hot coals. The almost burnt, pitch-black beans are roughly ground by hand with a mortar and pestle before being placed in a clay pot, the jebena. The coffee is then mixed with water in the pot and placed on the fire until steam forms. The dark, sometimes bitter coffee is typically sweetened with sugar and usually served with popcorn in handleless cups.

Every country has its typical coffee traditions and even in Germany a special coffee culture is still cultivated: coffee and cake and the coffee gossip! The classic coffee and cake day is still Sunday in many places.

On this day, the family often meets at the coffee table or friends are invited home in the afternoon. This ancient custom stems from a time when coffee was increasingly drunk at home, as public cafes and coffeehouses were too expensive or even too far away to spot as meeting places.

These special days were and are still used today to get together as a family, perhaps to invite relatives who are further away and to exchange news. A typical German coffee gossip.

Introduction: Chilean cuisine

Chilean cuisine is a delicious and diverse mix of flavors influenced by its geography, history, and different cultures. The cuisine has a strong emphasis on seafood, meat, and vegetables, and it is known for its unique blend of indigenous ingredients and Spanish colonial cooking techniques. The country’s culinary scene varies across different regions, each offering distinctive dishes and ingredients that reflect the local culture, climate, and geography.

The North: desert flavors

The North of Chile is known for its arid climate and unique flavors that reflect its desert landscape. The cuisine is characterized by the use of traditional ingredients such as quinoa, corn, and various types of potatoes. A popular dish is the chairo soup, a hearty soup made with beef, potatoes, and corn. Another local favorite is the humitas, a type of tamale made with fresh corn, onion, and basil.

Central Chile: seafood and wine

Central Chile is home to the capital city, Santiago, and it is the country’s largest wine-producing region. The cuisine of central Chile is strongly influenced by seafood, and a popular dish is the chupe de mariscos, a creamy seafood casserole made with clams, mussels, shrimp, and cheese. The region is also famous for its wine, especially its red wines such as Carmenere and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The South: traditional dishes

The South of Chile is known for its traditional dishes and ingredients, which are heavily influenced by the Mapuche culture. A popular dish is the curanto, a type of barbecue made with meat, seafood, potatoes, and vegetables, cooked in a large hole in the ground and covered with leaves. Another traditional dish is the milcao, a type of potato pancake made with boiled potatoes, pork fat, and flour.

Easter Island: fusion cuisine

Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, is a small island located in the Pacific Ocean, and it has a unique, fusion cuisine influenced by Polynesian and South American cultures. A popular dish is the curanto Rapa Nui, a variation of the curanto dish made with sweet potatoes, taro, and fish, cooked in a pit covered with banana leaves.

The Andes: mountain specialties

The Andes mountains offer a unique range of ingredients and flavors, including different types of potatoes, quinoa, and various types of herbs and spices. A popular dish is the pachamanca, a type of barbecue where meat, potatoes, and vegetables are cooked in a pit covered with hot stones. Another specialty is the guatitas, a hearty stew made with beef tripe, potatoes, and peanuts.

Patagonia: seafood and lamb

Patagonia is a vast, sparsely populated region located in the southern part of Chile, known for its rugged landscape and unique gastronomy. The cuisine of Patagonia is characterized by the use of lamb and seafood, such as the curanto al hoyo, a type of barbecue made with lamb, pork, seafood, and vegetables, cooked in a hole in the ground.

Conclusion: diverse and flavorful cuisine

Chilean cuisine is a delicious and diverse mix of flavors and ingredients influenced by its geography, history, and different cultures. The country’s cuisine varies across different regions, each offering distinctive dishes and ingredients that reflect the local culture, climate, and geography. From the arid desert landscapes of the North to the rugged Patagonian coastline, Chilean cuisine is a unique and flavorful experience that should not be missed.

Introduction: Colombian cuisine

Colombian cuisine is a rich and diverse blend of indigenous, African, European, and Asian influences. It is characterized by its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients such as plantains, yucca, corn, beans, and tropical fruits. Colombian cuisine varies greatly across the country according to the region’s geography, climate, and cultural traditions.

The Caribbean cuisine of Colombia

Located on the northern coast of Colombia, the Caribbean region is known for its seafood dishes and vibrant culinary culture. The cuisine is heavily influenced by African, Spanish, and indigenous traditions. Popular dishes include fried fish, coconut rice, sancocho (a hearty soup made with meat and root vegetables), and arepas de huevo (deep-fried corn cakes filled with egg).

The Pacific cuisine of Colombia

The Pacific region of Colombia, which borders the Pacific Ocean, is renowned for its seafood dishes and Afro-Colombian culture. Local ingredients such as plantains, yucca, and coconut are heavily used in dishes such as encebollado (a fish soup with onions and yucca), arroz con coco (coconut rice), and cangrejo (crab).

The Andean cuisine of Colombia

The Andean region of Colombia is known for its hearty stews, roasted meats, and potato-based dishes. The cuisine is influenced by European and indigenous traditions. Popular dishes include ajiaco (a chicken and potato soup), lechona (a roasted pig stuffed with rice and peas), and bandeja paisa (a platter of rice, beans, meat, and fried plantains).

The Orinoquía cuisine of Colombia

The Orinoquía region of Colombia, located in the eastern plains, is known for its cattle ranches and meat-based dishes. The cuisine is heavily influenced by indigenous and Spanish traditions. Popular dishes include carne a la llanera (grilled beef with yucca and plantains), mondongo (a tripe soup), and chigüiro (a type of rodent).

The Amazonian cuisine of Colombia

The Amazonian region of Colombia, located in the southeast, is known for its exotic ingredients and indigenous culinary traditions. Local ingredients such as fish, yucca, and plantains are used in dishes such as maito (grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves), tacacho (fried plantain balls), and juanes (a type of tamale made with chicken and rice).

Influences on Colombian cuisine

Colombian cuisine has been shaped by a variety of cultural influences, including indigenous, African, European, and Asian. The Spanish introduced ingredients such as rice, wheat, and beef, while African slaves brought their culinary traditions and techniques. Indigenous communities introduced local ingredients and cooking methods, while Asian immigrants introduced new flavors and ingredients such as soy sauce and ginger.

Conclusion: Diversity in Colombian cuisine

Colombian cuisine is a reflection of the country’s diverse cultural heritage and geography. Each region has its own unique culinary traditions and flavors, from the seafood dishes of the Caribbean to the meat-based dishes of the Orinoquía. Colombian cuisine is a testament to the country’s rich history and cultural diversity, and is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Introduction: Croatian Cuisine

Croatian cuisine is diverse and influenced by various neighboring countries such as Italy, Hungary, and Austria. The cuisine is known for its use of fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The cuisine also varies greatly across different regions of the country, each with its unique flavors and specialties.

Coastal Croatia: Seafood Paradise

Coastal Croatia, with its long coastline and numerous islands, offers a plethora of seafood dishes. The cuisine is characterized by the use of fresh seafood such as prawns, squid, and octopus, usually grilled or served in stews. The dishes are often accompanied by olive oil, garlic, and parsley. Notable seafood dishes include black risotto, a dish made with squid ink and rice, and buzara, a seafood stew with tomatoes, garlic, and white wine.

Inland Croatia: Meat and Dairy

Inland Croatia is known for its meat dishes, particularly pork and lamb, often roasted or grilled. The cuisine also features dairy products such as cheese and sour cream, used in dishes like strukli, a pastry filled with cottage cheese and sour cream. Inland Croatia is also known for its hearty stews such as cobanac, a spicy meat stew with vegetables.

Zagreb: Fusion of Traditions

Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, offers a fusion of traditional Croatian cuisine and international flavors. The cuisine features dishes such as ćevapi, a grilled dish of minced meat served with flatbread, and schnitzel, a dish of breaded meat usually served with potatoes. The city is also known for its street food, including the popular dish of langos, fried dough topped with cheese, sour cream, and garlic.

Dalmatia: Mediterranean Influence

Dalmatia, a region on the Adriatic coast, is influenced by Mediterranean cuisine. The cuisine features fresh seafood dishes such as octopus salad and grilled sardines, often accompanied by olive oil and vegetables. The region is also known for its wine, particularly red wines made from indigenous grape varieties.

Slavonia: Spicier and Heartier

Slavonia, a region in eastern Croatia, features spicier and heartier cuisine. The dishes are often made with pork, paprika, and garlic. Popular dishes include kulen, a spicy sausage, and čobanac, a stew made with various meats and vegetables. Slavonia is also known for its wine, particularly white wines made from local grape varieties.

Istria: Italian Flavors

Istria, a region in the northwest of Croatia, is influenced by Italian cuisine. The region features dishes such as fuži, a pasta dish served with a sauce made with truffles, and maneštra, a vegetable soup with beans and potatoes. The region is also known for its olive oil, wine, and truffles.

Conclusion: The Diversity of Croatian Cuisine

Croatian cuisine is diverse and influenced by various neighboring countries. Each region of the country has its unique flavors and specialties, from seafood dishes in coastal Croatia to hearty stews in Slavonia. Whether it’s meat, seafood, or vegetables, Croatian cuisine offers a range of delicious dishes for food lovers to savor.

Introduction: The culinary culture of Suriname

Suriname is a small country located in South America, nestled between Guyana, French Guiana, and Brazil. Suriname is known for its beautiful landscapes, diverse culture, and mainly its flavorful cuisine. Surinamese cuisine is a reflection of the country’s diverse population, with influences from African, Indonesian, Indian, Chinese, Dutch, and indigenous cuisines.

Suriname’s cuisine is a combination of spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients that create a unique and exotic taste. Surinamese dishes are a fusion of various cuisines, making it challenging to distinguish which dishes are unique to Suriname. However, Suriname’s cuisine is known for its flavorful dishes that have a combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.

Influences from the Surinamese cuisine

Surinamese cuisine has its roots in the slave trade that brought Africans to Suriname, where they mixed with the indigenous population. The arrival of indentured workers from Asia brought new ingredients and cooking techniques to Suriname. However, the Dutch colonial period had a significant impact on the country’s cuisine. The Dutch introduced new spices, vegetables, and cooking techniques, which are still used in Surinamese cuisine today.

Indian and Chinese influences are also evident in Surinamese cuisine. The use of spices such as cumin, turmeric, and coriander, and cooking techniques such as stir-frying, are prevalent in Surinamese cuisine.

The traditional Surinamese dishes

Suriname has several traditional dishes that are popular in the country. One of the most popular dishes is roti, a flatbread made with wheat flour and filled with curried vegetables and meat. Another popular dish is pom, a casserole made with chicken and cassava root. Other traditional dishes include moksi meti, a dish consisting of rice and mixed meats; and saoto soup, a chicken soup with noodles and vegetables.

Unique Surinamese dishes

While Suriname’s cuisine is influenced by various cuisines, there are several dishes unique to Suriname. One of these dishes is bara, a fried dough made with split peas, onion, and garlic. Another unique dish is gado-gado, a salad made with boiled vegetables and a peanut sauce. Suriname’s cuisine also features a unique dessert, called doksa, a sweetened grated coconut mixed with cinnamon and nutmeg.

The significance of Surinamese cuisine

Suriname’s cuisine reflects the country’s diverse population and cultural heritage. Surinamese cuisine is an essential part of the country’s identity, and it has become a way to preserve the culture and traditions of the country. Surinamese cuisine is also an excellent way to introduce the country’s culture to the rest of the world.

Conclusion: The cultural richness of Suriname

Suriname’s cuisine is a reflection of the country’s diverse population and cultural heritage. Surinamese cuisine has influences from various cuisines, making it difficult to distinguish which dishes are unique to Suriname. However, Suriname’s cuisine is known for its flavorful dishes that have a combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. Surinamese cuisine has become a way to preserve the culture and traditions of the country and introduce it to the rest of the world.

Introduction: Exploring Swedish Cuisine

Swedish cuisine is characterized by its simplicity, freshness, and the use of locally sourced ingredients. It has a rich history and is deeply influenced by the country’s geography, climate, and culture. Swedish cuisine is often associated with meatballs, salmon, and potatoes, but there is more to it than these popular dishes.

Traditional Swedish Dishes

Traditional Swedish cuisine is based on simple, hearty, and wholesome dishes that have been passed down from generation to generation. Some of the most iconic Swedish dishes include meatballs with lingonberry jam, gravlax (cured salmon), pea soup with pork, and pickled herring. These dishes are typically served with potatoes, bread, and dill. Swedish cuisine also includes a variety of bread, both sweet and savory, such as limpa bread, crispbread, and cinnamon buns.

The Role of Ingredients in Swedish Cooking

The ingredients used in Swedish cooking are largely influenced by the country’s geography and climate. Sweden’s long coastline provides an abundance of seafood, such as salmon, herring, and crayfish. The country’s forests are rich in berries, mushrooms, and game, while the fertile farmland produces potatoes, root vegetables, and dairy products. The use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients is at the heart of Swedish cooking, and many traditional dishes are made with simple, whole foods.

Influences on Swedish Cuisine

Swedish cuisine has been influenced by a variety of cultures throughout its history. The Vikings, who were known for their seafaring and trading, brought new ingredients and techniques to Sweden, such as salted fish and fermented foods. Later, in the 17th and 18th centuries, French cuisine became popular among the Swedish aristocracy, leading to the introduction of more elaborate and refined dishes. Today, Swedish cuisine continues to evolve and is influenced by global food trends and multiculturalism.

Unique Swedish Dishes

While Swedish cuisine shares many similarities with other Scandinavian countries, there are some dishes that are unique to Sweden. One such dish is “surströmming,” which is fermented herring that is typically eaten with potatoes and onions. Another unique dish is “blodpudding,” a type of black pudding made from pork blood, flour, and spices that is often served with lingonberry jam and fried bacon. Other unique Swedish dishes include “kroppkakor,” potato dumplings filled with pork or bacon, and “smörgåstårta,” a savory sandwich cake made with layers of bread, cheese, and toppings.

Conclusion: The Importance of Preserving Culinary Heritage

Swedish cuisine is an important part of the country’s cultural heritage and should be preserved and celebrated. While there are many unique Swedish dishes, it is also important to remember and honor the traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations. By valuing and promoting Swedish cuisine, we can help preserve and promote the country’s rich culinary heritage for future generations to enjoy.

Introduction: Exploring Swiss Cuisine

Switzerland, a country known for its stunning mountains and picturesque landscapes, is also home to a diverse cuisine. Swiss cuisine is a reflection of the country’s regional diversity, with each region boasting its own unique dishes. From hearty meat dishes to decadent chocolates, Swiss cuisine has something to offer for everyone.

If you’re a food lover, Switzerland is a must-visit destination. The country’s cuisine is a blend of influences from German, French, and Italian cuisines, making it a melting pot of flavors. Swiss cuisine is known for its use of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, making it a treat for your taste buds.

Swiss Dishes: What’s on the Menu?

Swiss cuisine offers a wide range of dishes that are unique to the country. Some of the most popular dishes include Cheese Fondue, Rösti, and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes. These dishes are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, and they are a must-try when visiting Switzerland.

Cheese Fondue: A Swiss Classic

Cheese Fondue is a classic Swiss dish and is considered a national dish of Switzerland. It is made using a blend of cheeses such as Gruyère, Emmental, and Appenzeller, melted together with white wine and garlic. The melted cheese is served in a communal pot, and diners use long forks to dip pieces of bread into the cheese. Cheese Fondue is a great dish to share with friends and family, and it’s perfect for a cozy night in.

Rösti: A Comforting Potato Dish

Rösti is a Swiss potato pancake that is a popular breakfast dish in Switzerland. It is made by shredding potatoes and frying them into a pancake-like shape. Rösti is served with a variety of toppings, including bacon, cheese, and eggs. It is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for a cold winter morning.

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: Zurich’s Specialty

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes is a specialty from Zurich and is made using thin strips of veal, sautéed with mushrooms and onions in a cream sauce. It is typically served with Rösti or pasta. This dish is a favorite among locals and is a must-try if you’re visiting Zurich.

Basler Läckerli: A Sweet Treat from Basel

Basler Läckerli is a sweet treat from the city of Basel and is a type of gingerbread. It is made using honey, almonds, and spices such as cinnamon and cloves. Basler Läckerli has a chewy texture and is typically served during the Christmas season. It is a great souvenir to take home as a reminder of your trip to Switzerland.

In conclusion, Swiss cuisine has a lot to offer, and these dishes are just a small sample of the country’s culinary delights. Whether you’re a cheese lover or have a sweet tooth, Switzerland has something to offer for everyone. So, the next time you’re in Switzerland, make sure to try these dishes and explore the country’s unique cuisine.

Introduction: Syrian Cuisine

Syrian cuisine is known for its rich blend of spices and flavors, featuring dishes that reflect the country’s diverse cultural history. The cuisine of Syria has been influenced by various civilizations that have ruled the region over the centuries, including the Greeks, Romans, Persians, and Ottomans. Syrian cuisine is a fusion of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Asian culinary traditions, making it a unique and vibrant cuisine that has become popular around the world.

Traditional Syrian Dishes

Syrian cuisine is famous for its meze, a selection of small dishes that are served as appetizers or snacks. Some of the most popular meze dishes in Syria include muhammara, a spicy red pepper dip with walnuts and pomegranate molasses, and hummus, a chickpea dip that is blended with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. Other traditional Syrian dishes include kibbeh, a meatball made with minced lamb or beef, bulgur wheat, and spices; and shawarma, a sandwich made with marinated meat that is roasted on a spit and served in pita bread.

Similarities with Other Middle Eastern Cuisines

Syrian cuisine shares many similarities with other Middle Eastern cuisines, such as Lebanese, Turkish, and Palestinian cuisine. For example, Syrian meze dishes are similar to the Lebanese meze, and shawarma is a popular street food across the region. However, Syrian cuisine has its own unique flavors and ingredients that set it apart from other Middle Eastern cuisines.

Unique Syrian Culinary Traditions

Syrian cuisine has several unique culinary traditions that are specific to the country. One of these traditions is the use of sour cherry syrup as a flavoring agent for sweet and savory dishes. Another unique tradition is the use of za’atar, a spice blend made with dried herbs, sesame seeds, and sumac, which is used to flavor bread, meat, and vegetables. Additionally, Syrian cuisine is known for its use of bulgur wheat in a variety of dishes, such as kibbeh and tabbouleh.

Dishes with Ancient Roots

Many of the dishes in Syrian cuisine have ancient roots and are steeped in history and tradition. For example, kibbeh has been eaten in the region for thousands of years and was mentioned in ancient Assyrian texts. Similarly, maqluba, a one-pot dish made with rice, vegetables, and meat, has been a staple of Syrian cuisine for generations.

Conclusion: The Richness of Syrian Cuisine

Syrian cuisine is a rich and diverse cuisine that reflects the country’s cultural history. With a wide range of spices, flavors, and ingredients, Syrian cuisine offers a unique culinary experience that is both delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying traditional meze dishes or exploring the cuisine’s ancient roots, Syrian cuisine is a must-try for anyone interested in Middle Eastern cuisine.