Remember that time you backpacked through Europe, experiencing all the epicurean offerings of the various regions? Back at home, you’re lucky if you get to sit down to eat dinner together. Take a vacation from your daily life and relive those delicious memories by recreating your favorite travel meals right in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Remember that time you backpacked through Europe, experiencing all the epicurean offerings of the various regions? Back at home, you’re lucky if you get to sit down to eat dinner together. Take a vacation from your daily life and relive those delicious memories by recreating your favorite travel meals right in thee comfort of your own kitchen.
Ease into the day with a simple, yet delightful Italian colazione (breakfast). Let your espresso machine caffeinate you luxuriously with a hot cappuccino or caffè latte, pair it with a buttery crostata or cornetto from your local bakery (or the international aisle in your grocery store!), and take your meal on the patio, waking up with nature.
When it’s time for a snack, turn to Belgium, where waffles are not considered a breakfast food and also receive a huge flavor upgrade. Whether you opt for the soft sweetness of the Liège waffle or the crisp Brussels waffle topped with Belgian chocolate, kick up your feet and give yourself a minute to savor your snack.
The traditional ploughman’s lunch is a perfect way to take your mid-day meal. Combine high-quality British cheeses and meats with some crusty bread, pickles, chutney, and seasonal fruit for a substantial yet simple lunch. Amp up the authenticity by enjoying your ploughman’s lunch with a cold pint, preferably in your basement pub.
Stick around the U.K. for this delightful pm snack, and stay true to the tradition’s history by inviting some friends to enjoy it with you. Not to be confused with the more formal high tea, the loose leaf teas, finger sandwiches, tarts, cakes, and scones of afternoon tea are taken at a low table, perfectly suited to your living room table.
After retiring to the bedroom for a short siesta (not just a Spanish tradition!), you’ll be ready for the day’s main meal, Dalmatian Pašticada. The popular Croatian stew of garlicky beef, bacon, and vegetables over gnocchi is best served around a big table of family and friends. Pair it with a bottle of Dalmatian Plavac Mali and savor every minute of your dinner
If you need a walk after dinner, gather your friendly neighbors and organize a progressive tapas stroll.Head from house to house, gathering in living and dining rooms to nosh on small plates of tortilla espanola, garlic shrimp, and patatas bravas with bright Spanish wines and sangria.
All the best days end with something sweet. Wind down from your European adventure with a French macarona scrumptious cookie sandwich of meringue and buttercream — and a glass of Cognac or other digestif. After this epic day of eating and pleasure, the only hankering you’ll have is for your bed.