Ukrainian Côtelette de Volaille

Ukrainian Côtelette de Volaille

Ukrainian Côtelette de Volaille

Ukrainian Côtelette de Volaille

SpiceBreeze
Côtelette de volaille is popular in Eastern Europe influenced by the French cuisine. It combines a crisp crust around thin meat, filled with butter, garlic, and herbs. Newer variations add cheese or vegetables to the filling. Our spice blend includes six herbs, including tarragon, chervil, and dill.
Don't prick the chicken, and cut the served rolls carefully to avoid splattering the golden goodness.
Stock up culinary spice kits - Limited time only!
hands-on time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Ukrainian
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

Protein

  • 1.5 chicken breast [1]

Dairy

  • 3 oz butter room temperature
  • 2 eggs whisked

Packaged Goods/Staples

  • 1.5 cups flour [2]
  • 1.5 cups breadcrumbs [3]
  • 1 cup oil
  • salt & pepper

Côtelette de Volaille Culinary Spice Kit

  • Garlic, onions, chervil, chives, tarragon, marjoram, dill, rosemary, orange peel, lime peel, celery  

Optional

  • 1 tbsp parsley freshly chopped
  • fresh garlic to taste grated
  • 1-2 slices cheese cheddar, for instance
  • 1-2 tbsp broccoli mashed
  • chili or paprika powder

Suggested Sides

  • mashed or boiled potatoes
  • rice steamed or cooked
  • asparagus, peas, cauliflower, broccoli, or carrots steamed or cooked
  • a fresh salad with a lemon dressing over tomatoes cucumber, watercress, and/or lettuce.
  • berry sauce see our cranberry sauce recipe ***

Instructions
 

1. Prepare the Herb Butter

  • In a BOWL, mix butter, Côtelette de Volaille spices, and optionally fresh garlic and/or parsley with a fork until well combined.
  • Shape a 1-inch thick log. Wrap it with cling wrap.
  • Freeze it for 20 minutes.

2. Flatten the Chicken

  • Cut each breast lengthwise in half. (How to)
  • Place each breast between two cling wraps.
  • Pound the breasts with a meat hammer until evenly thin.
    Be careful not to create holes in the breast.

3. Fill & Close Logs

  • Season each breast with salt & pepper to taste.
  • Cut the herb butter into equal parts, one for each chicken breast half.
  • Place one butter part on a chicken breast.
  • Optionally, add 1 tbsp broccoli or cheese to taste.
  • Roll, press, and fold until all sides are closed.
  • Wrap the rolled chicken breast into a cling wrap and close it tight.
  • Keep wrapped chicken rolls in the freezer for 20 minutes.

3. Prepare Chicken Rolls for Frying

  • Prepare 3 PLATES, one each for flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
  • Optionally, add chili powder to taste or 1/2 tsp paprika powder to the flour.
  • Roll each chicken roll on each PLATE until evenly covered.

4. Fry the Chicken Rolls

  • In a small PAN, heat 1 cup oil to 350°F.
  • Fry each chicken roll for about 2 minutes, turning frequently, until all sides are golden. Drain on a paper towel.

5. Bake the Chicken Rolls (after the Frying!)

  • Preheat OVEN to 350°F.
  • Bake chicken rolls for 15 minutes.
  • Take them out and let them rest for 5 minutes.

Serve

  • Serve chicken rolls with your preferred sides. Enjoy!

VARIATION - Skip the Roll - for 2 Chicken Breasts

  • Follow step 1.

2. Prepare Chicken Pockets

  • Cut lenghtwise into the chicken breast to create a pocket.
  • Season each breast with salt & pepper to taste.
  • Cut herb butter in half. Cut each half into small slices.
  • Place each half of the herb butter into one chicken breast.
  • Optionally, add cheese to taste.
  • Wrap each chicken breast into a cling wrap and close it tight.
  • Keep wrapped chicken breasts in the freezer for 20 minutes.
  • Continue with step 3 and 4.
  • You can skip step 5 if you fry the chicken breast in step 4 until the chicken is done.

VARIATION - EASIEST - with Fried Chicken Strips

  • Follow step 1.
  • Cut chicken into 1/2 inch thin x 1 inch long strips.
  • Follow step 3. Optionally, you can skip step 3 if you really need to. The chicken will still taste good but not be crisp.
  • Follow step 4. Fried until the chicken is done.
  • Cut the butter into 1/4 inch slices.
  • Serve fried chicken strips with potatoes or rice topped with the butter slices. Add your preferred sides. Enjoy!

VARIATION - VEGETARIAN

  • Follow step 1.
  • Cut vegetables of your choice, for instance, eggplant, portbello, or zucchini, into 1/2 inch slices.
  • Follow step 3 and 4. Fry the strips until done.
  • Cut the butter into 1/4 inch slices.
  • Serve fried vegetables slices with potatoes or rice topped with the butter slices. Enjoy!

Notes

[1] Substitute chicken breast with a large boneless pork or veal cutlet.
[2] All purpose flour or a gluten free alternative.
[3] For a crust with more crunch, use freshly grated breadcrumbs or panko. 
Alternatively, substitute breadcrumbs with coarse ground nuts.
*** Cranberry sauce recipe - To substitute cranberries with raspberries, cut the recipe down to 1/3, reduce spices to a pinch cinnamon, and boil the sauce only for a few minutes.
Marceline Reid-Jaques
Marceline Reid-Jaques
2022-12-14
Karen Jones
Karen Jones
2022-12-05
Wonderful, flavorful meals using readily available ingredients!
ann davis
ann davis
2022-11-29
My daughter gave me a subscription as a Christmas present while our families were quarantining together. It was so much fun! It introduced us to several cuisines that were totally new to us. The recipes were easy to follow and the spices were transformative - fresh and pungent and delicious.
Jessica Brown
Jessica Brown
2022-05-22
The best way to try new dishes!

Enter the Culinary World

Be Inspired | Explore your boundaries and creativity

 

Ukrainian Côtelette de Volaille

Ukrainian Côtelette de Volaille

Côtelette de volaille is popular in Eastern Europe influenced by the French cuisine. It combines a crisp crust around thin meat, filled with butter, garlic, and herbs. Newer variations add cheese or vegetables to the filling. Our spice blend includes six herbs, including tarragon, chervil, and dill.

Don't prick the chicken, and cut the served rolls carefully to avoid splattering the golden goodness.

Stock up culinary spice kits – Limited time only!

Protein

  • 1.5 chicken breast*

Dairy

  • 3 oz butter (room temperature)
  • 2 eggs (whisked)

Packaged Goods/Staples

  • 1.5 cups flour
  • 1.5 cups bread crumbs**
  • 1 cup oil
  • salt & pepper

Côtelette de Volaille Culinary Spice Kit

  • Garlic, onions, chervil, chives, tarragon, rosemary, marjoram, parsley, dill, lime peel, orange peel, celery  

Optional

  • 1 tbsp parsley (freshly chopped )
  • fresh garlic to taste (grated)
  • 1-2 slices cheese (cheddar, for instance)
  • chili or paprika powder

Suggested Sides

  • mashed or boiled potatoes; rice (steamed or cooked)
  • asparagus (peas, cauliflower, broccoli, carrots (steamed or cooked))
  • a fresh salad with a lemon dressing over tomatoes (cucumber, watercress, and/or lettuce.)
  • berry sauce (see our cranberry sauce recipe ***)

1. Prepare the Herb Butter

  1. In a BOWL, mix butter, Côtelette de Volaille spices, and optionally fresh garlic and/or parsley with a fork until well combined.

  2. Form a 1-inch thick roll. Cover with cling wrap. Freeze it for 20 minutes.

2. Prepare the Chicken Rolls

  1. Cut each breast lengthwise in half.

  2. Place each breast between two cling wraps.

  3. Pound the breasts with a meat hammer until evenly thin. Be careful not to create holes in the breast.

  4. Season each breast with salt & pepper to taste.
  5. Cut herb butter in four equal parts.
  6. Place one butter part on a chicken breast.

  7. Optionally, add cheese to taste.

  8. Roll and fold until all sides are closed.

  9. Wrap the rolled chicken breast into a cling wrap and close it tight.
  10. Keep wrapped chicken rolls in the freezer for 20 minutes.

3. Prepare Chicken Rolls for Frying

  1. Prepare 3 PLATES, one each for flour, eggs, and bread crumbs.
  2. Optionally, add chili powder to taste or 1/2 tsp paprika powder to the flour.

  3. Roll each chicken roll on each PLATE until evenly covered.

4. Fry the Chicken Rolls

  1. In a small PAN, heat 1 cup oil to 350°F.

  2. Fry each chicken roll for about 2 minutes, turning frequently, until all sides are golden. Drain on a paper towel.

5. Bake the Chicken Rolls (after the Frying!)

  1. Preheat OVEN to 350°F.

  2. Bake chicken rolls for 15 minutes.

  3. Take them out and let them rest for 5 minutes.

Serve

  1. Serve chicken rolls with your preferred sides. Enjoy!

VARIATION – Skip the Roll – for 2 Chicken Breasts

  1. Follow step 1.

2. Prepare Chicken Pockets

  1. Cut lenghtwise into the chicken breast to create a pocket.

  2. Season each breast with salt & pepper to taste.

  3. Cut herb butter in half. Cut each half into small slices.

  4. Place each half of the herb butter into one chicken breast.

  5. Optionally, add cheese to taste.

  6. Wrap each chicken breast into a cling wrap and close it tight.

  7. Keep wrapped chicken breasts in the freezer for 20 minutes.

  8. Continue with step 3 and 4.

  9. You can skip step 5 if you fry the chicken breast in step 4 until the chicken is done.

VARIATION – EASIEST – with Fried Chicken Strips

  1. Follow step 1.

  2. Cut chicken into 1/2 inch thin x 1 inch long strips.

  3. Follow step 3. Optionally, you can skip step 3 if you really need to. The chicken will still taste good but not be crisp.

  4. Follow step 4. Fried until the chicken is done.

  5. Cut the butter into 1/4 inch slices.

  6. Serve fried chicken strips with potatoes or rice topped with the butter slices. Add your preferred sides. Enjoy!

VARIATION – VEGETARIAN

  1. Follow step 1.

  2. Cut vegetables of your choice, for instance, eggplant, portbello, or zucchini, into 1/2 inch slices.

  3. Follow step 3 and 4. Fry the strips until done.

  4. Cut the butter into 1/4 inch slices.

  5. Serve fried vegetables slices with potatoes or rice topped with the butter slices. Enjoy!

Stock up culinary spice kits – Limited time only!

* Substitute chicken breast with a large boneless pork or veal cutlet.

** For a crust with more crunch, use freshly grated bread crumbs or panko. 
Alternatively, substitute bread crumbs with coarse ground nuts.

*** Cranberry sauce recipe – To substitute cranberries with raspberries, cut the recipe down to 1/3, reduce spices to a pinch cinnamon, and boil the sauce only for a few minutes.

 

Main Course
Ukrainian
chervil, chives, dill, orange peel, tarragon
Indonesian Martabak

Indonesian Martabak

Indonesian Martabak

Indonesian Martabak

SpiceBreeze
Martabak is a cherished Indonesian street food delicacy defined by its thin, crispy pancake enveloping a savory filling of eggs, minced meat (usually beef or chicken), or vegan alternatives, combined with vegetables and our unique Indonesian spice blend. Typically served with a side of dipping sauce, Martabak is relished as a delectable breakfast choice throughout Indonesia and beyond. Additionally, it can be enjoyed as a dinner option paired with a variety of side dishes.
hands-on time 30 minutes
Course Breakfast, Main Course
Cuisine Indonesian
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

Filling - Protein

  • 1 lb ground beef or finely chopped poultry [1]

Filling - Fresh Produce

  • 2-4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped [2]
  • 3 green onions , finely sliced [2]
  • 2-3 tbsp fresh chopped celery leaves, parsley, or cilantro optional

Filling - Eggs & Soy Sauce

  • 4 eggs, whisked [3]
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce [4]

Option1: "Pancake" Dough Sheets. Choose One.

  • eggroll wrappers
  • phyllo dough

Option 2: Original Dough for the "Pancakes"

  • 2 cups flour
  • 3 tbsp oil
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Martabak Culinary Spice Kit

  • Galangal, coriander, cumin, ginger, yellow mustard, fenugreek, turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, chili

Suggested Sides

  • Indonesian pickled veggies (see recipe)
  • Indonesian nut chili dip (see recipe)
  • a bed of rice and lettuce or mashed cauliflower
  • cucumber salad with lemon dressing
  • double the filling and pour it over the pancakes

Instructions
 

Optional: Prepare the Dough

  • Mix together all the dough ingredients, kneading until well combined.
  • Cover the dough and let it rest at room temperature for 2 hours.
  • Afterward, divide the dough into quarters and shape each portion into a ball.
  • Roll out each ball into a large, thin circle sheets about the size of a dinner plate.

Fry the Meat

  • In a PAN, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium heat.
  • Stir-fry the garlic for a few seconds until fragrant.
  • Add meat and stir-fry until it changes color and is crumbled.
  • Add onions, soy sauce, and Martabak spices. Stir-fry for approximately 5 minutes.
  • Transfer the mixture to a plate to cool.

Mix the Filling

  • In a BOWL, combine the eggs, green onions, herbs (optional), and the cooled fried meat. Mix thoroughly until evenly incorporated.

Fry the Pancakes

  • Heat a PAN over medium heat until hot.
  • Place one sheet in the pan and spread a quarter of the filling in the center.
  • Fold the sides over to fully enclose the filling and create a package.
  • Fry until golden brown, approximately 2 to 3 minutes per side.
  • Repeat this process three more times.

Serve

  • Serve Martabak with your preferred sides for breakfast or dinner.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

[1] Alternatives:
- 1/2 lb sausages or ham or bacon, diced
- 1 cup dry lentils, 12 oz of cauliflower rice, 1/2 lb diced mushrooms or crumbled tempeh
[2] Alternative: Substitute onions with 1 large leek, finely sliced, or with two cups of chopped kale or spinach.
[3] Alternative: Substitute each egg with
- 1 tbsp ground flax seeds soaked in 3 tbsp of water for 5 minutes.
[4] See our blog for soy sauce substitutes.
Marceline Reid-Jaques
Marceline Reid-Jaques
2022-12-14
Karen Jones
Karen Jones
2022-12-05
Wonderful, flavorful meals using readily available ingredients!
ann davis
ann davis
2022-11-29
My daughter gave me a subscription as a Christmas present while our families were quarantining together. It was so much fun! It introduced us to several cuisines that were totally new to us. The recipes were easy to follow and the spices were transformative - fresh and pungent and delicious.
Jessica Brown
Jessica Brown
2022-05-22
The best way to try new dishes!

Enter the Culinary World

Be Inspired | Explore your boundaries and creativity

Mexican Mole Chicken

Mexican Mole Chicken

Mexican Mole Chicken

Mexican Mole Chicken

SpiceBreeze
The dark mole sauce is made with several chili peppers, nuts, and chocolate. It is such a fabulous combination. Think of a chocolate bar with nuts and chili flavor. Preparing the mole sauce is usually labor-intensive and time-consuming.
This recipe is a delicious shortcut with three important ingredients: ancho chili, pasilla chili, and raw cacao. Unlike the common roasted cocoa, cacao is pure chocolate and higher in minerals.
 
hands-on time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

Protein

  • 1.25 lbs chicken thighs or breast cut into bite size pieces

Fresh Produce

  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2-4 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • 1 cup peas and diced carrots frozen**

Dairy

  • 4 tbsp butter

Packaged Goods/Staples

  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp vinegar
  • 1/4 cup almond*** butter raw, unsalted
  • 4 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp sugar brown recommended
  • 3 cups cooked rice
  • salt & pepper

Mole Culinary Spice Kit

  • Pouch [1] Cacao, oregano, cinnamon
  • Pouch [2] Ancho chili, pasilla chili

Optional

  • 1 cup sesame seeds
  • sour cream
  • tortillas for variation

Instructions
 

Chicken*

  • Season chicken with salt & pepper to taste.

Mole

  • In a POT, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium-low heat.
  • Cook onions until they turn slightly brown. Stir occasionally.
  • Add garlic. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
  • Add chicken. Stir-fry for 2 minutes.
  • Add broth, vinegar, nut butter, tomato paste, sugar, and Mole [1] spices. Mix well.
  • Cover. Bring to a boil.
  • Cook 10 minutes over low heat.
  • Add Mole [2] spices to taste. Mix well.
  • Cook 30 minutes over low heat.
  • Stir occasionally.

Rice

  • In a SMALL POT, cook peas & carrots in 2 tbsp butter 5 minutes** over low heat.
  • Add salt to taste. Add the cooked rice. Mix well.

Serve

  • Serve mole chicken with rice.

Optional

  • Alternatively, serve mole sauce as enmoladas****.
  • Optionally, sprinkle with sesame seeds and drizzle with sour cream. Enjoy!

Notes

Notes/ Variations
* Substitute chicken with any ground meat or with  2 cans beans with our online recipe.
** If you prefer fresh vegetables, cook them longer with a little added water.
*** Substitute with hazelnut or cashew butter.
**** Alternative: Reheat tortillas. Fill them with the chicken. Roll them up. Pour mole sauce on top.
 
Marceline Reid-Jaques
Marceline Reid-Jaques
2022-12-14
Karen Jones
Karen Jones
2022-12-05
Wonderful, flavorful meals using readily available ingredients!
ann davis
ann davis
2022-11-29
My daughter gave me a subscription as a Christmas present while our families were quarantining together. It was so much fun! It introduced us to several cuisines that were totally new to us. The recipes were easy to follow and the spices were transformative - fresh and pungent and delicious.
Jessica Brown
Jessica Brown
2022-05-22
The best way to try new dishes!

Enter the Culinary World

Be Inspired | Explore your boundaries and creativity

Chinese Soy Sauce Chicken

Chinese Soy Sauce Chicken

Chinese Soy Sauce Chicken

Chinese Soy Sauce Chicken

SpiceBreeze
Soy Sauce Chicken is a savory and flavorful dish that originates from Chinese cuisine. It features tender pieces of chicken cooked in a fragrant sauce made with soy sauce, green onions, and a blend of spices. This dish is beloved for its simplicity, yet rich and satisfying taste, making it a popular choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its enticing aroma and delicious flavors, Soy Sauce Chicken is sure to delight your taste buds and become a staple in your recipe collection.
hands-on time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

Protein

  • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs [1]

Fresh Produce

  • 5 green onions cut into 1-inch slices
  • 1-2 tbsp orange or lemon juice (optional)

Packaged Food/Staples

  • 1-2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1-2 tbsp cooking wine (optional)
  • 1-2 tbsp sugar or syrup

Culinary Spice Kit

  • 1 pouch ginger, garlic, orange peel, tangerine peel, cinnamon, fennel, star anise

Suggested Sides

  • rice cooked
  • thin long egg noodles
  • bok choy, broccoli, broccolini cooked
  • leafy greens (kale, chard, spinach) blanched

Instructions
 

  • In a PAN, heat 2 tbsp oil over high heat.
  • Add the chicken and fry it until all sides turn brown. Stir frequently.
  • Take the chicken out.
  • Reduce the heat to medium.
  • Add the green onions and fry them until they are fragrant.
  • Return the chicken to the pan.
  • Add 1/2 cup of water, and 1 tbsp each of soy sauce, wine, and sugar, or more to taste.
  • If using salmon, add one more tbsp soy sauce.
  • Add the Soy Sauce Chicken spices. Mix well.
  • Add a little bit more water, soy sauce, wine, or sugar to adjust the seasoning to your taste.
  • Cover. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
  • Let it cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
  • Serve the Soy Sauce Chicken with your preferred sides.
  • Optionally, sprinkle a bit of orange or lemon juice over the plated meat.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

[1] Alternatively, you can substitute beef stew or salmon for the chicken.
If opting for beef, double the amount of water and soy sauce. Cook it covered over low heat for approximately 1.5 hours, ensuring it becomes tender.
Marceline Reid-Jaques
Marceline Reid-Jaques
2022-12-14
Karen Jones
Karen Jones
2022-12-05
Wonderful, flavorful meals using readily available ingredients!
ann davis
ann davis
2022-11-29
My daughter gave me a subscription as a Christmas present while our families were quarantining together. It was so much fun! It introduced us to several cuisines that were totally new to us. The recipes were easy to follow and the spices were transformative - fresh and pungent and delicious.
Jessica Brown
Jessica Brown
2022-05-22
The best way to try new dishes!

Enter the Culinary World

Be Inspired | Explore your boundaries and creativity

Hawaiian Kalua

Hawaiian Kalua

Aloha Feast

Hawaiian Kalua Pig or Chicken with a Bounty of Sides

Embark on a culinary journey to the shores of Hawaii as we explore the vibrant flavors of Kalua Pig or Chicken, paired with an array of delectable sides. Traditionally cooked in an underground imu pit, Kalua is a beloved Hawaiian dish known for its succulent, smoky flavor and tender texture. But fear not, you don’t need to dig a hole in your backyard to enjoy this island favorite! In this recipe, we’ll show you just how easy it is to recreate the magic of Kalua in your own kitchen, using simple cooking methods that yield mouthwatering results. From tender shredded pork or chicken to an abundance of savory sides, get ready to savor the taste of Hawaii in every bite, all without breaking a sweat—or digging a hole. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to mastering Kalua at home!

Hawaiian Coleslaw
Hawaiian Coleslaw
Hawaiian Kalua Sliders
Hawaiian Kalua Sliders
Hawaiian Lomi Salmon
Hawaiian Lomi Salmon
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Hawaiian Kalua

Hawaiian Kalua

SpiceBreeze
Kalua, a traditional Hawaiian delicacy, offers a tantalizing blend of smoky flavors and tender meat, embodying the essence of island cuisine. This beloved dish, typically made with pork, undergoes a slow cooking process, resulting in succulent, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Whether prepared in the oven or the convenience of a slow cooker, Kalua promises a taste of Hawaii's rich culinary heritage, making it a delightful addition to any table.
hands-on time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Hawaii
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

Protein

  • 1.5 lb pork butt or chicken thighs

Culinary Spice Kit

  • 1 pouch Smoked Alderwood sea salt, smoked paprika, Hawaiian black lava salt, garlic  

Suggested Sides

  • Hawaiian Coleslaw recipe
  • Hawaiian Macaroni Salad recipe
  • Hawaiian Lomi Salmon recipe
  • steamed vegetables for instance: cabbage or green beans
  • mixed salad of your choice with a lemon or vinegar dressing tips
  • grilled pineapple slices
  • cooked rice
  • Hawaiian bread rolls

Instructions
 

Prepare the Meat

  • Cut the meat on all sides with 1/4- inch-deep slits about 1 inch apart.
  • Rub the meat on all sides with the Kalua spice blend.

Cooking Option 1 - In the Oven

  • Preheat the OVEN to 270°F.
  • Line a roasting pan with aluminum foil. If using chicken without skin, add 2 tbsp oil.
  • Place the meat in the center. Add 1/4 cup of water. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.
  • Roast the chicken for about 2 hours or the pork for 4-5 hours until it is tender and easily shreds with a fork. If using pork, check every hour and add some water if necessary.

Cooking Option 2 - In the Slow Cooker

  • Place the meat with 1/4 cup of water into the cooker. Cover with the lid.
  • Cook on low for 4-10 hours or until the meat is tender and shreds easily.

Shred the Meat

  • Once cooked, remove the meat. Shred the meat into smaller pieces by hand or with two forks.

Serve

  • Serve Kalua with your choice of traditional Hawaiian sides. Enjoy!
Marceline Reid-Jaques
Marceline Reid-Jaques
2022-12-14
Karen Jones
Karen Jones
2022-12-05
Wonderful, flavorful meals using readily available ingredients!
ann davis
ann davis
2022-11-29
My daughter gave me a subscription as a Christmas present while our families were quarantining together. It was so much fun! It introduced us to several cuisines that were totally new to us. The recipes were easy to follow and the spices were transformative - fresh and pungent and delicious.
Jessica Brown
Jessica Brown
2022-05-22
The best way to try new dishes!

Enter the Culinary World

Be Inspired | Explore your boundaries and creativity

Carnival Venice boat

Carnival – Culinary Traditions

Unveiling the Flavors of Carnival

A Culinary Adventure Through Tradition and Taste

Share this post:

Carnival, a time of vibrant colors, lively music, and exuberant celebrations, is much more than just a festivity—it’s a cultural phenomenon that transcends borders and unites people in joyous revelry. Originating from ancient pagan rituals and later evolving into a Christian tradition, Carnival has become synonymous with extravagance, merriment, and of course, delectable cuisine. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the fascinating origins of Carnival and tantalize your taste buds with mouthwatering dishes from around the world.

The Origins of Carnival

Carnival traces its roots back to ancient times when pagan societies celebrated the arrival of spring with fertility rites and feasts. Over time, these celebrations evolved into elaborate spectacles marked by parades, masquerades, and indulgence in food and drink. With the spread of Christianity, Carnival became intertwined with the pre-Lenten festivities leading up to Ash Wednesday, providing a final opportunity for revelry before the solemn period of Lent.

Fun Fact: The word “Carnival” is believed to derive from the Latin phrase “carne vale,” meaning “farewell to meat,” reflecting the traditional practice of abstaining from meat during Lent.

Spring Tulips

Culinary Delights of Carnival

No Carnival celebration is complete without an array of mouthwatering dishes that reflect the unique flavors and traditions of each region. Whether you’re indulging in the rich and savory delights of Brazil or savoring the classic Italian pasta dishes, Carnival is a feast for the senses.

While Germany may not be as famously associated with Carnival as some other countries, it does have its own culinary traditions, especially in regions like Rhineland and Bavaria where Carnival, or “Karneval” and “Fasching,” respectively, is celebrated with gusto. One iconic Carnival food from Germany is “Berliner Pfannkuchen,” which are essentially Berliner doughnuts or jam-filled doughnuts.

Fasching - Berliner Pfannkuchen

Mustard-Filled Surprise

In Germany, particularly in regions like Berlin and Rhineland, there’s a playful tradition associated with Berliner Pfannkuchen during Carnival celebrations. As part of the festivities, some of the doughnuts are secretly filled with mustard instead of the traditional fruit jam. This tradition adds an element of surprise and mischief to the enjoyment of these sweet treats. When unsuspecting revelers take a bite, they’re met with the unexpected tanginess of mustard instead of the anticipated sweetness, resulting in laughter and playful reactions. It’s all in good fun and adds an extra layer of excitement to the Carnival festivities, showcasing the playful spirit of the season.

Bucatini with Anchovies (Italian Delight)

Transport yourself to the streets of Italy with a comforting bowl of bucatini pasta tossed in a flavorful anchovy sauce. This classic dish showcases the simplicity and elegance of Italian cuisine, with the umami richness of anchovies adding depth of flavor to every bite.

Doubles (Trinidadian Treat)

Experience the bold and vibrant flavors of Trinidad and Tobago with doubles, a beloved street food delicacy. These delightful sandwiches feature curried chickpeas sandwiched between two soft bara bread, topped with chutneys, cucumber, and pepper sauce. A true explosion of taste in every bite!

Vatapá (Brazilian Bliss)

Journey to the shores of Brazil with vatapá, a creamy and spicy dish that captures the essence of Brazilian cuisine. Made with bread, shrimp, coconut milk, peanuts, and palm oil, vatapá tantalizes the taste buds with its rich and exotic flavors. Perfect for savoring during Carnival festivities!

Brazilian Coxinha

Coxinha (Savor the Flavor of Brazil)

Embrace the culinary delights of Brazil with coxinha, a popular street food snack that’s sure to please. These deep-fried dough balls are filled with flavorful shredded chicken, shaped like drumsticks, and enjoyed by revelers of all ages. Add a touch of Brazilian flair to your Carnival celebrations with this delicious treat!

As Carnival sweeps across the globe, it brings with it a riot of colors, music, and culinary delights that unite people in celebration and joy. From the historic streets of Venice to the bustling cities of Brazil, Carnival is a time to indulge in the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions that make our world so wonderfully diverse. So, why not join in the festivities and embark on a culinary adventure of your own? Try your hand at these delicious dishes and immerse yourself in the magic of Carnival wherever you may be. Buon appetito!

Discover the world with hand selected videos on our new YouTube channel