Top 5 Best Mediterranean Side Dishes and Appetizers You Should Try

Food

As you make your journey into the world of Mediterranean cuisine, it’s important to have a good knowledge of which side dishes and appetizers can take your culinary experience to the next level. Here are five Mediterranean side dishes and appetizers you should try next time you go to a Mediterranean restaurant.

Tabbouleh

This famous salad has a bold, but satisfying taste due to its use of dynamic ingredients including parsley, tomatoes, mint, olive oil, and lemon juice. It is popular in countries such as Lebanon and Syria, as well as other parts of the Eastern Mediterranean. Tabbouleh is great for pairing with falafel, another popular Middle Eastern dish.

Baba Ganoush

Baba ganoush, also spelled “baba ghanoush,” is a popular dip that uses an eggplant and olive oil base paired with seasonings such as lemon juice and tahini. It is best enjoyed by dipping pita bread or pita chips into it before the main entree comes out. This savory dip will whet your appetite and get you ready to enjoy the heavier meat-based dishes in Mediterranean cuisine.

Hummus

Hummus is an icon of Mediterranean cuisine worldwide. Its popularity as a condiment and dip for pita bread and even regular crackers cannot be understated. This chickpea-based blend is a versatile addition to your meal, and chances are that you’ll be dipping both your meat and your bread into a dish of hummus throughout your lunch and dinner.

Moutabal

Moutabal is similar to baba ganoush because it is an eggplant-based dip, but its ingredients are slightly different and its spice levels are considerably higher. Moutabal is made using ingredients such as salt, garlic, and yogurt. If you’re looking for a dip that is creamier and slightly more intense than baba ganoush, look no further than moutabal.

Labneh

Contrary to the image of yogurt as a sweet snack in the Western world, Labhneh blends strained yogurt, dried mint, and olive oil for a mix of salty, savory, and creamy flavors. You can eat it on its own as a dip or as part of dishes like shawarma bowls or kebab plates.

You can sample some of the best Mediterranean side dishes at restaurants like Manakish Oven & Grill, a restaurant providing Middle Eastern food in Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, and Concord, CA. Manakish also offers catering for Mediterranean food in Concord, CA and neighboring cities.

Meatless Wonders: Embracing Vegetarianism While Discovering New Cultures

Food

The allure of exploring new cultures and cuisines is a captivating aspect of travel, and for those who choose a vegetarian lifestyle, this journey becomes an opportunity to savor the flavors of the world while staying true to their dietary choices. Guided by the expertise of healthcare professional Cody Moxam, embarking on this meatless adventure unveils a world of possibilities that blend culture and culinary exploration. With his guidance, the path to embracing vegetarianism while discovering new cultures becomes a seamless and enriching experience. Here are some valuable insights to consider:

Research and Cultural Immersion

A successful journey starts with meticulous research. Cody Moxam advises delving into the cultural and culinary customs of each destination. Understanding the essence of local ingredients, preparation methods, and traditional dishes enables vegetarian travelers to engage more deeply with the culture.

Celebrating Plant-Based Traditions

Across the globe, diverse societies have cultivated plant-based culinary traditions that offer a range of delectable options for vegetarians. Cody Moxam suggests embracing these traditions as a gateway to authentic experiences. Sampling indigenous vegetarian dishes allows travelers to forge connections with local communities and savor the true essence of a place.

Communication and Customization

Effectively communicating dietary preferences is integral to savoring meatless wonders abroad. Cody Moxam emphasizes learning key phrases in the local language to convey vegetarian choices. Engaging with chefs and servers to customize dishes not only ensures a satisfying meal but also fosters cultural exchange.

Local Markets and Fresh Ingredients

Exploring local markets is a cherished activity for travelers seeking genuine encounters. Cody Moxam recommends visiting farmers’ markets and food markets to discover a treasure trove of fresh produce, spices, and ingredients. Incorporating these elements into meals allows for an immersive and authentic dining experience.

Embracing Street Food

Street food is a vibrant aspect of many cultures, and vegetarians need not miss out on this culinary adventure. Cody Moxam advises seeking out street vendors who offer meatless options. Exploring local street food allows for an unfiltered taste of regional flavors and a chance to connect with the daily lives of locals.

Balancing Nutritional Needs

As a healthcare professional, Cody Moxam encourages travelers to maintain a balanced approach to vegetarian exploration. While indulging in local delights is a highlight, ensuring nutritional adequacy remains a priority. Incorporating a variety of nutrient-rich foods ensures a holistic and satisfying culinary experience.

In closing, the pages of this culinary adventure are inscribed with Cody Moxam’s wisdom, echoing the harmonious blend of cultural discovery and vegetarian values. With each bite, each shared conversation, and each market exploration, travelers intertwine with the world’s diverse offerings.

Vodka’s Remarkable Voyage: Unveiling its Global Evolution and Enduring Influence

Food & Drinks

The captivating tale of vodka’s origins continues to fuel both scholarly discussions and passionate discourse. Yet, its inception transcends the familiar borders of Russia and Poland, shrouded in the veils of history.

Derived from the Slavic term “voda,” signifying water, the very essence of “vodka” signifies a profound connection to Eastern European heritage. Historical records trace back the ancient art of vodka’s craftsmanship and consumption to the medieval epochs of places like Russia and Poland. In its nascent form, it emerged as a distilled beverage born of grains or potatoes, valued not only for its potential medicinal attributes but also esteemed for its perceived healing qualities, rather than just for recreational indulgence.

In those distant times, rudimentary distillation methods yielded spirits often infused with harsh and unrefined traits. To refine these raw essences, early vodka artisans ventured into the realm of flavors, infusing their creations with aromatic herbs, spices, or the succulent essence of fruits.

As the march of time persisted, distillation underwent an evolution, elevating vodka to a more refined and coveted spirit. It secured the admiration of Russian nobility and seamlessly integrated itself into cultural customs and joyous gatherings. Enchanted by its unadulterated taste, the Russians embarked on an unwavering quest for perfection, fine-tuning production techniques to achieve unprecedented clarity and velvety smoothness.

A transformative juncture in vodka’s narrative arrived in the 19th century, catalyzed by the visionary endeavors of Dmitri Mendeleev, a Russian chemist. His introduction of a standardized system for quantifying alcohol content sparked a scientific revolution, propelling vodka into a new era of precision in distillation methods. This advancement elevated its quality and bestowed upon it an aura of sophistication.

The 20th century ushered in a complex tapestry of challenges and opportunities for the vodka realm. The era of Prohibition in the United States, spanning from 1920 to 1933, paradoxically bore witness to a surge in clandestine vodka consumption among Eastern European immigrants, further embedding its presence within the mosaic of American culture.

In the modern panorama, vodka stands as a symbol of diverse cultures, with distilleries worldwide weaving their unique interpretations. Whether embodying the smooth neutrality of Russian and Polish iterations or radiating the refined elegance of Scandinavian wheat-based variations, the kaleidoscope of vodka’s expressions continues to broaden into a spectrum of flavors, hues, and inspirations.

In the world of vodka, there are many remarkable brands, but one shines particularly brightly – NEFT Vodka from Austria. It has received praise from around the world for its incredibly smooth taste and unique range of flavors. It even won the prestigious Double Gold award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. But NEFT Vodka offers more than just great taste; it is also committed to being eco-friendly by using sustainable packaging and practices. As you explore the exciting world of vodka, consider NEFT Vodka as your trusted companion, guiding you to new and delightful taste experiences.

 

Traveling Green: A Guide to Sustainable Vegetarian Travel by Cody Moxam

Food

In an era where conscious choices can make a significant impact on the environment, sustainable travel has emerged as a priority for many globetrotters. At the forefront of this movement is Cody Moxam, a passionate advocate for sustainable vegetarian travel. With his comprehensive approach to exploring the world while minimizing his ecological footprint, Cody Moxam offers a guide that harmonizes ethical dietary choices with responsible travel practices.

Embracing a Plant-Based Lifestyle:

Cody Moxam’s journey towards sustainable vegetarian travel began with a commitment to a plant-based lifestyle. Recognizing the environmental toll of meat consumption, Cody Moxam adopted a vegetarian diet to align his actions with his values. This choice not only reduces his carbon footprint but also serves as an inspiration to others aspiring to make ethical dietary decisions on the road.

Research and Planning:

A key aspect of Cody Moxam’s approach is thorough research and meticulous planning. Before embarking on a journey, he extensively researches local vegetarian eateries, ensuring he can savor authentic cuisines that align with his dietary preferences. This approach not only enriches his culinary experience but also supports local businesses that prioritize sustainable practices.

Eco-Friendly Accommodations:

Cody Moxam’s commitment to sustainable travel extends beyond food choices to accommodation. He seeks eco-friendly lodgings that prioritize energy efficiency, waste reduction, and responsible water usage. By supporting such establishments, he encourages the hospitality industry to adopt greener practices, setting an example for a more sustainable future.

Minimal Carbon Footprint Transportation:

To reduce his carbon footprint, Cody Moxam prefers low-emission modes of transportation such as trains and buses whenever feasible. He acknowledges that air travel is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, and by opting for alternative means of travel, he actively contributes to curbing the impact of his journeys.

Cultural Immersion:

Cody Moxam’s approach to sustainable travel places a strong emphasis on authentic cultural experiences. He engages with local communities, participates in eco-friendly tours, and learns about indigenous lifestyles. By immersing himself in diverse cultures, he fosters cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, contributing to a more interconnected world.

Zero-Waste Practices:

Mindful consumption is a hallmark of Cody Moxam’s travel philosophy. He carries reusable water bottles, utensils, and eco-friendly toiletries to minimize single-use plastic waste. His commitment to leaving no trace behind sets a precedent for responsible tourism, encouraging others to adopt similar practices.

Advocacy and Education:

Beyond his personal travels, Cody Moxam is dedicated to advocacy and education. He shares his experiences and insights through social media platforms, blogs, and workshops. By spreading awareness about sustainable vegetarian travel, he empowers others to make informed choices that positively impact the environment.

In conclusion, Cody Moxam’s approach to sustainable vegetarian travel showcases how ethical dietary choices can seamlessly integrate with responsible travel practices. Through meticulous research, eco-conscious accommodations, and a commitment to reducing his carbon footprint, Cody Moxam demonstrates that exploring the world while prioritizing the environment is not only possible but also deeply rewarding. As we navigate the path toward a more sustainable future, Cody Moxam’s guide serves as an invaluable resource for travelers eager to make a positive difference on their journeys.

Special Afternoon Feast at the Angelina Tearoom

Travel

Article submitted by Cécile Zarokian

The Angelina Tea House on rue de Rivoli is a great place to have afternoon tea, as it is a place that offers a wide variety of scrumptious meal options, especially if you go for a combination of hot chocolate, bread and dessert.

The Angelina Hot Chocolate has been a popular choice among people in Paris. This hot chocolate is quite similar to the well-loved Belgian drinking chocolate. It is just as rich and velvety-smooth but has a deeper and more complex chocolate flavor.

For bread, you can order the Brioche Toasts for the afternoon feast. It comes with butter, jam, honey, and their famous chestnut cream. Although, their bread is in great competition with some of Paris best bread, it is actually the chestnut cream that is the highlight of this order. This unique spread is made from the highest quality chestnuts in France and superior Madagascar vanilla beans. This makes it so unique and delicious that jars of the cream are sold at all Angelina salons.

For dessert, you should definitely try the chestnut-based Mont-Blanc. The Trocadéro is also an excellent choice. Although, it is not popular as the Mont-Blanc, it is equally delightful. It is made of two types of hazelnut biscuits and both chocolate and hazelnut cream. It is finally encased in milk chocolate with ground almonds and topped with whipped milk chocolate cream.

With an afternoon feast that is as luxurious as this, it is no wonder that the Angelina Tearoom is always associated with luxury and heavenly treats, thus attracting a number of people to try their mouth-watering feast.

 

Scrumptious Breakfast at the Angelina Tearoom

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Article submitted by Cécile Zarokian

Breakfast is a great time in Paris at breakfast time as the unmistakable aroma of coffee mixed with the divine scent of freshly-baked buttery bread is enough to jolt any one’s appetite. Although, a number of French cafe and bakery provide good quality product, but none of them offer the same experience as the Angelina Tearoom.

The Angelina Tea House on rue de Rivoli is the perfect place to enjoy a typical Parisian breakfast. The gilded frescoes, leather-backed chairs, marble-topped tables, and intricate crown-moldings of Angelina Tearoom, offer a magnificent ambiance in which people can enjoy their scrumptious breakfast.

The Parisian Breakfast available at Angelina is an excellent choice. It allows you to enjoy a hot beverage of your choice (tea, coffee, or their world-famous hot chocolate), freshly pressed fruit juice (either orange, grapefruit, or lemon), mini viennoiseries (butter croissant and their famed pan au chocolat), and bread rolls served with butter, jam, honey, and their celebrated chestnut cream.

If you are ravenously hungry and prefer a heavier meal, then you can try the Angelina Breakfast instead. The Angelina Breakfast also includes eggs prepared any way you want (scrambled, fried, soft-boiled, or omelet) as well as a fruit salad.

For people who prefer a lighter breakfast option, you can try the Angelina Croissant with ham and scrambled eggs. You can either order Angelina hot chocolate, or one of the tea selections or even coffee. It does not matter what you order, be assured that the Angelina Tearoom is one of the best places where you can have a scrumptious and delightful breakfast.

 

An Afternoon Feast at the Angelina Tearoom

Food and Travel

Article submitted by Cécile Zarokian

If you’re ever in Paris, make your way to the Angelina Tea House on rue de Rivoli. Afternoon tea is a good time to visit even if you might have to contend with a queue. While the tearoom offers a wide variety of scrumptious meal options, it’s best to go for a combination of hot chocolate, bread, and dessert.

The Angelina Hot Chocolate has consistently made its way to virtually all lists of must-tries in Paris. After a single sip, it’s easy to understand why. This hot chocolate is akin to the well-loved Belgian drinking chocolate. It’s just as rich and velvety-smooth but with a deeper, more complex chocolate flavor.

For bread, order the Brioche Toasts which comes with butter, jam, honey, and of course, their famed chestnut cream. While their bread is truly on par with some of Paris’ great boulangeries, it’s really the chestnut cream that’s the highlight of this order. This popular spread is made from the highest quality chestnuts in France and superior Madagascar vanilla beans. It’s so unique and delicious that jars of the cream sell very well at all Angelina salons.

For dessert, the chestnut-based Mont-Blanc is a definite must. The Trocadéro is also an excellent choice. While not as popular as the Mont-Blanc, the Trocadéro is equally delightful. It is made of two types of hazelnut biscuits and both chocolate and hazelnut cream. It is encased in milk chocolate with ground almonds and topped beautifully with whipped milk chocolate cream.

With an afternoon feast like this, it’s no wonder the Angelina Tearoom is always associated with luxury, opulence, and the joy of living.

Jamaican Climate and When to Go

Climate Holidays Travel

There is never a good time not to travel to Jamaica. The island’s year round balmy climate makes this a travel mecca for people all over the world. The American dollar conversion is usually to our advantage, and I have always found souveneirs and activity packages to be more than reasonable.

As with any popular vacation destination, there are high and low seasons for tourism, knowing the ebb and flow of seasonal demands will help. High season means tourism is at its peak, and nearly all hotels will be booked. Meanwhile, during the low season, big-ticket items such as accommodations and even airfare can be deeply discounted.
The months of December through April are usually high season since travellers want to escape from the winter blues. With miles of sandy beaches calling your name, and temperatures averaging between 71 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit year round, travellers find this to be the most ideal time for their Jamaican vacation. Expect higher prices on vacation packages and the possibility of over booked hotels. Holidays, such as New Years Eve, require booking a room as much as one year in advance. Beaches will be mor corwded and reservations will be a necesity for popular activities such as golf or dinner reservations.
High sea
Still, there’s a reason why people choose to visit during the high season. Not only is Jamaica a nice change of pace from winter weather, but many festivals also take place. Carnival is one of the Caribbean’s best known festivals; it takes place the week following Easter in either March or April. Junkanoo is Jamaica’s traditional Christmas celebration, and several yacht races take place in the early months of the year.
Ironically, summertime is the low season in Jamaica and the Caribbean. Though Jamaica is always a popular destination, the slower summer season from mid-April to mid-December means less travellers. Although vacation packages can be cheaper, services in the hotels may not be full-service. Restuarants and bars tend to close earlier and resorts may be expeiencin removations at this time.
May and June and October and November are Jamaica’s rainy seasons.
This is also hurricane season, so you may want to inquire about hurricane season when planning your Jamaican vacation. Hurricans are usually no real threat in the Caribean, but this could be an inconvenience for your travel plans. On a positve note, some of the above inconveniences may be worth it with discounts up to 50% on some hotels.
As always, the choice is yours. Visitors travel during both the low and high seasons regularly, and Jamaica is always popular. For some, the difference between the two seasons may not be as noticeable as it may be for others.

Popular Jamaican Destinations

Climate Holidays Places Travel

Jamaica is one of the most exotic and diverse travel destinations. Maybe you are planning to vacation in Jamaica, these are some of the most popular destinations in Jamaica.

Most visited vacation destinations in Jamaica

Kingston

Kingston is the capitol of Jamaica and the most Americanized part of the island. Many of the islanders who live in Kingston are very into American fashion and culture. McDonalds and other fast food chains are super popular in Kingston. If you are looking for the true, Authentic Jamaican culture, Kingston is a location you may want to visit for a day only.

Montego Bay

Montego Bay, Jamaica will be one of the most relaxing vacations you could possibly take. With it’s year round warm weather, swimming, snorkelling at Doctor’s Cave and Fletcher Beach. Dive in the ominously named Widowmaker’s Cave or play golf on courses such as Half Moon and Tryall. When the sun goes down, feast like kings on jerk chicken, dance to a reggae beat and gamble on Gloucester Avenue.

Negril

Negril Jamaica is for the young at heart who like to party 24-7. Negril’s Seven-Mile Beach is just that: seven miles of perfect, unbroken sand. People watching is grand here, as strollers mix with the local vendors in an unending, sun-washed dance. There is no end to the plethora of restaurants and bars along the beach, one hotel after the other.

Ocho Rios

Port Antonio

Runaway Bay

Jamaican Stuffed Roast Beef Recipe

Food Holidays Travel

Jamaican Stuffed Roast Beef is a delicious meal that is usually prepared in Jamaican households for special occassions. I hope you enjoy my father’s special recipe.

Ingredients you will need:
1 medium rib eye
1 small onion
Thyme
Scallion
Crushed pimiento seeds
½ hot scotch bonnet pepper
Pick-a-pepper sauce
Paprika
Corn starch
Soy Sauce
Ketchup
Oil
Salt & Black pepper
Preperation:
Dice all of the seasoning and mix with a little pick-a-pepper sauce and salt.
Make small holes in roast and stuff the mix seasoning in the holes, all around, leaving enough seasoning to make gravy.
Add Soy sauce, ketchup, salt, black pepper, paprika, pick-a-pepper and rub along meat.
Let stand for a while.
Heat oil in skillet, shake excess seasoning off. Add meat.
Cook over medium heat, turning constantly to prevent sticking. Let it brown on each side. Do not add a lot of water. Just a little each time it dries out.
Keep adding water until cooked.
When cooked, remove from skillet to make gravy.
Make corn starch in a paste and add to stock to make gravy. Serve over a bed of white rice or rice and peas 2 gloves garlic.