My Greek Culinary Adventure
Greece has always been of my dream backpacking destinations. I am just so lucky to have found deals online offering cheap holidays to Greece. The deal included a 4-day stay in Greece, accommodations at a budget hotel, free breakfasts for all four days, a city tour, an adventure in an amusement park, and transfers. This isn't totally bad for a bundled tour which isn't that expensive, at all. Not surprising as this was extremely comfortable and elegant than what I am used to; considering I have slept in more uncomfortable sleeping conditions. Thus, for me, it's a new experience with a little bit of opulence.
When backpacking in some other nation, I always make it a point to try out local dishes. When touring another country, one should try getting into a region's cuisine. To be able to complete a soulful experience in a region, one has to indulge in local dishes as food is a fundamental element of culture. Backpackers are known to be a daring lot; and they are more willing to try out strange but interesting food than mainstream tourists who usually have doubts over the local dishes' preparation and nutrition. So, during my stay in Greece, I frequently visited traditional Greek tavernas. These are tiny restaurants serving traditional Greek dishes. Al fresca dining is what most tavernas offer, giving diners a glimpse of the sunshine as they dine. Tavernas are symbolic of Greek culture and culinary history. I have tried a number of Greek dishes. Like any other cuisine, there are Greek dishes which are simply divine, but there are some which made my stomach turn. Maybe they're cooked poorly or I don't have the palate or stomach to appreciate them. Whatever the case, I appreciate the culinary experience. I don't think it is right to label meals as "good" or "bad," as what some tourists do. Remember that people have acquired tastes; what may be bad to you may be good to others. Greek meals are almost always prepared with olive oil, herbs, vegetables, meat and grains. Staple in Greek cuisine are lamb, rabbit and poultry. Always present are eggplant, zucchini, olives and a different kinds of cheeses. Typically, Greek dishes are served in mezes style. What this translates to basically, are that meals are served in small portions. Every meal is normally followed by wines: anise-flavore liquers or homemade tsipouro. There are many Greek dishes that I tasted. Here are some of the best dishes I ever tasted. * Tirokafteri is a cheese spread that is both spicy and salty and served with slivers of flat bread. The cheese often includes hot peppers, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, and yoghurt. It is a pleasant entree to whip up your appetite for much heavier dishes. * Souvlaki is the Greek form of American barbecue. It is made up of a meat, usually pork, chicken, or lamb, which is skewered and barbequed. The dish may be served plain, but I ordered mine in a pita sandwich. Some backpackers also order a few skewers of souvlaki with a side dish of fried potatoes. * Choriatiki is a delicious and filling Greek salad. It's possibly the best salads I've ever eaten. Choriatiki is composed of chopped up tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and olives. It is then garnished with diced feta cheese, berries, and capers. Find great offers for a culinary backpacking holiday to Greece or affordable family holidays to Malta now.