#tapas amiundo

[rabbitcruiser]

National Salad Day

Hey there, salad enthusiasts! Get ready to celebrate National Salad Day, a day dedicated to our leafy green friends and their fellow vegetable companions. Get your forks ready and prepare to dive into some delicious, healthy, and colorful creations. This national day is all about celebrating the wonders of salads and encouraging everyone to incorporate more greens into their diets. So, let's explore the history and delights of National Salad Day!

When is Salad Day?

It's national salad day on the 1st May.

The Birth of National Salad Day

While salads have been around for centuries, National Salad Day is a relatively new addition to the calendar. It started gaining popularity in recent years as people became more conscious of their health and nutrition. The origins of this day are closely tied to the rise of social media and food blogging. Influencers and health-conscious individuals shared their love for salads online, inspiring a wave of salad enthusiasts.

On May 1st, 2015, the internet exploded with mentions of National Salad Day. It became an annual celebration, bringing people together to appreciate the wonders of fresh veggies and creative combinations. From tangy dressings to crunchy toppings, it's a day to experiment and create salads that satisfy both your taste buds and your nutrition goals.

Salads Around the World

Salads come in countless varieties, each reflecting the unique culinary traditions of different cultures. Let's take a whirlwind tour around the world to explore some famous salads:

Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, feta cheese, and olives.

Caesar Salad: A classic made with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a creamy dressing.

Cobb Salad: A hearty salad with a bed of lettuce topped with avocado, bacon, chicken, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, and blue cheese. It's a meal in itself!

Caprese Salad: A simple and elegant combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, drizzled with olive oil.

Tabbouleh: A Middle Eastern salad made with parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and a lemony dressing.

How to Celebrate National Salad Day

Now that you know the history and some famous salad recipes, it's time to celebrate National Salad Day in style. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Organize a salad potluck with friends and family. Each person can bring a unique salad creation to share.

Try out a new salad recipe you've never made before. Challenge yourself to experiment with different ingredients and flavors.

Visit a local farmer's market and stock up on fresh produce for your salads. Supporting local farmers is always a good idea!

Share your favorite salad recipe on social media using the hashtag #NationalSaladDay. Spread the salad love!

Did You Know?

Did you know that the largest salad ever made weighed a whopping 20,100 pounds? It was created in Romania in 2012 and included a mix of lettuce, cabbage, carrots, peppers, and onions. That's one gigantic and healthy serving!

History behind the term 'Salad'

500 BC

The Birth of Salads

Salads have been enjoyed for centuries. The ancient Greeks and Romans were known to eat mixed greens with dressing as a way to cleanse their digestive systems. They believed that the combination of raw vegetables and herbs had medicinal properties.

17th Century

Salad as a Symbol of Wealth

In the 17th century, salads became associated with wealth and nobility. It was considered a luxury to have fresh greens and exotic ingredients on one's table. Salads were often served as a grand gesture to impress guests.

1763

The Word 'Salad' Enters English

The word 'salad' entered the English language in 1763, derived from the French word 'salade.' The French had a significant influence on culinary customs during that period, and the term quickly gained popularity in the English-speaking world.

19th Century

Salads Evolve with New Ingredients

During the 19th century, salads started to incorporate a wider variety of ingredients. Fruits, nuts, and mayonnaise-based dressings became popular additions. Salads also became more decorative, with intricate garnishes and arrangements.

20th Century

The Rise of Salad Bars

In the mid-20th century, salad bars gained popularity in restaurants and cafeterias. Salad bars offered a wide selection of fresh ingredients, giving people the freedom to customize their salads. This concept revolutionized the way salads were served.

21st Century

Salads for Health and Green Living

In the 21st century, salads have become synonymous with healthy eating and green living. As more people seek nutritious options and environmental sustainability, salads have become a popular choice. From kale salads to quinoa salads, there are endless variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Source

[rabbitcruiser]

National Wine and Cheese Day 

Pair complimentary wine and cheeses to satisfy the palate, host a tasting event and see who can create the best combinations on Wine and Cheese Day.

There are some things in the world that were just meant to go together, like Chocolate and Peanut Butter, oil and vinegar, and of course wine and cheese! Since time out of mind wine and cheese have been paired together and served at all the most important of events among the highest class of people. Wine And Cheese Day celebrates this eternal bonding and the elegance it engenders.

Learn about National Wine and Cheese Day

National Wine and Cheese Day is a date that celebrates the ultimate pairing of cheese and wine. For a lot of people, there is nothing that goes together better than a great glass of wine and some premium quality cheese. A lot of wine-producing cultures pair regional wines with local cheeses, and so this is an art that is recognized in many parts around the world. Take the French Brie region as a prime example. This area is noted for their varieties of tannic wines. Beaujolais is produced in the area, and it is often served with local Brie. This is just one example of many.

Not only does National Wine and Cheese Day give you the chance to celebrate this tradition, but it also gives you the opportunity to expand your knowledge in terms of pairing different types of wine and cheese. There are so many different types of wine and cheese – it would be impossible to name them all! This means that there is always something new to learn when it comes to the art of pairing these two treats together. And, of course, while there are some general guidelines to follow in terms of determining what sort of cheese is going to go well with the wine you’re serving, you can also learn a lot by simply trying out different combinations.

History of Wine And Cheese Day

There is an interesting element to all of the pairings mentioned in the introduction, with the possible exception of chocolate and peanut butter. Pairings of food almost universally involve pairing an astringent food, like wine, with a fatty food like cheese. The reason isn’t just incidental, but in fact is one of the secrets of culinary science that’s used in creating truly delectable meals.

Astringent foods have a tendency to bind with the elements in saliva that lubricate and cause them to clump and lose their ability to lubricate. This tends to leave us with a puckered mouth and nobody loves that! Even worse, the more you consume astringent foods the drier they make your mouth! While we all agree that wine and tea are both delicious, no one wants a puckered mouth!

This is where the cheese comes in with its fatty texture and often pungent flavors. Each bite tends to coat our mouths just a little more making it lubricated with fat, often to the point of being slimy! We love the flavors, but the constant build up of flavor can often be overwhelming, and that’s when wine comes to the rescue!

Wine And Cheese Day celebrates this pairing of foods and the ways they interact to make each one even more enjoyable!

How to celebrate Wine And Cheese Day

The best way to celebrate Wine And Cheese Day is by hosting a wine and cheese tasting of your very own! Get together with your friends and plan out the evening with every variety of cheese you can imagine. Bring your Port Wines and your blushes, your champagnes and your reds and whites, and for each of them bring a parade of cheeses to be sampled. We’re not talking simple Sharp Cheddar but exotics like blue cheese and Limburger, Gorgonzola and Mizithra, all the wondrous cheese of the world!

Here are some tips to help you pair wine and cheese together effectively:

When in doubt, a firm and nutty cheese won’t let you down.

Cheeses and wines that come from the same place pair well together. Remember what we said about the French brie earlier?

Sparkling wines work beautifully with creamy, soft cheeses. This is because the wine has high carbonation and acidity, which acts as a palate-cleanser for the sticky and creamy cheeses, like Cremont, Camembert, Muenster, and Brie.

Sweeter wines and funky cheeses go together perfectly. Sweeter wines like Late Harvest dessert wines and Moscato go well with the blue-veined cheeses. This is because the sweetness from the wine helps to balance out the ‘funk’ in the cheese.

Aged cheeses and bold red wines go well together. Look for cheeses that have aged for at least a year when serving a bold red wine. This is because the cheese’s fat content will counteract the high-tannins in the wine. Cheeses you can serve include the likes of Provolone, Gouda, Manchego, and Cheddar.

Pair cheeses and wines that equal intensity. If you were to opt for a Cabernet Sauvignon and Gruyère, for example, the cheese would be overwhelmed by the bold and big flavors of the wine.

With these tips, you should be able to come up with some great wine and cheese pairings that you and your loved ones can enjoy. You could even get everyone to contribute a wine and cheese pairing each, and then you could see who has been able to come up with the best match. After all, there is nothing like a bit of friendly competition, right?

Source

[rabbitcruiser]

National Salad Day

Hey there, salad enthusiasts! Get ready to celebrate National Salad Day, a day dedicated to our leafy green friends and their fellow vegetable companions. Get your forks ready and prepare to dive into some delicious, healthy, and colorful creations. This national day is all about celebrating the wonders of salads and encouraging everyone to incorporate more greens into their diets. So, let's explore the history and delights of National Salad Day!

When is Salad Day?

It's national salad day on the 1st May.

The Birth of National Salad Day

While salads have been around for centuries, National Salad Day is a relatively new addition to the calendar. It started gaining popularity in recent years as people became more conscious of their health and nutrition. The origins of this day are closely tied to the rise of social media and food blogging. Influencers and health-conscious individuals shared their love for salads online, inspiring a wave of salad enthusiasts.

On May 1st, 2015, the internet exploded with mentions of National Salad Day. It became an annual celebration, bringing people together to appreciate the wonders of fresh veggies and creative combinations. From tangy dressings to crunchy toppings, it's a day to experiment and create salads that satisfy both your taste buds and your nutrition goals.

Salads Around the World

Salads come in countless varieties, each reflecting the unique culinary traditions of different cultures. Let's take a whirlwind tour around the world to explore some famous salads:

Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, feta cheese, and olives.

Caesar Salad: A classic made with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a creamy dressing.

Cobb Salad: A hearty salad with a bed of lettuce topped with avocado, bacon, chicken, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, and blue cheese. It's a meal in itself!

Caprese Salad: A simple and elegant combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, drizzled with olive oil.

Tabbouleh: A Middle Eastern salad made with parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and a lemony dressing.

How to Celebrate National Salad Day

Now that you know the history and some famous salad recipes, it's time to celebrate National Salad Day in style. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Organize a salad potluck with friends and family. Each person can bring a unique salad creation to share.

Try out a new salad recipe you've never made before. Challenge yourself to experiment with different ingredients and flavors.

Visit a local farmer's market and stock up on fresh produce for your salads. Supporting local farmers is always a good idea!

Share your favorite salad recipe on social media using the hashtag #NationalSaladDay. Spread the salad love!

Did You Know?

Did you know that the largest salad ever made weighed a whopping 20,100 pounds? It was created in Romania in 2012 and included a mix of lettuce, cabbage, carrots, peppers, and onions. That's one gigantic and healthy serving!

History behind the term 'Salad'

500 BC

The Birth of Salads

Salads have been enjoyed for centuries. The ancient Greeks and Romans were known to eat mixed greens with dressing as a way to cleanse their digestive systems. They believed that the combination of raw vegetables and herbs had medicinal properties.

17th Century

Salad as a Symbol of Wealth

In the 17th century, salads became associated with wealth and nobility. It was considered a luxury to have fresh greens and exotic ingredients on one's table. Salads were often served as a grand gesture to impress guests.

1763

The Word 'Salad' Enters English

The word 'salad' entered the English language in 1763, derived from the French word 'salade.' The French had a significant influence on culinary customs during that period, and the term quickly gained popularity in the English-speaking world.

19th Century

Salads Evolve with New Ingredients

During the 19th century, salads started to incorporate a wider variety of ingredients. Fruits, nuts, and mayonnaise-based dressings became popular additions. Salads also became more decorative, with intricate garnishes and arrangements.

20th Century

The Rise of Salad Bars

In the mid-20th century, salad bars gained popularity in restaurants and cafeterias. Salad bars offered a wide selection of fresh ingredients, giving people the freedom to customize their salads. This concept revolutionized the way salads were served.

21st Century

Salads for Health and Green Living

In the 21st century, salads have become synonymous with healthy eating and green living. As more people seek nutritious options and environmental sustainability, salads have become a popular choice. From kale salads to quinoa salads, there are endless variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Source

[rabbitcruiser]

Goats Cheese Day

Oh, cheese lovers, gather ’round for a tale of creamy delight! Every year on this day, we celebrate something truly special — a day dedicated to the tangy and irresistible world of goat cheese or, as it is called in French, chèvre.

Yes, you heard it right—Goat Cheese Day is a time to revel in the rich and creamy goodness that comes from our caprine friends.

This day is not just about indulging in cheese; it’s a journey through history and flavor. Goat cheese, with its roots tracing back to ancient times, has been a staple in diets across the globe for thousands of years. Its unique flavors and textures have made it a favorite among food enthusiasts and chefs alike.

How to Celebrate Goat Cheese Day

When Goat Cheese Day rolls around, it’s your cue to get cheesy with gusto! Here are some whimsical yet utterly delightful ways to mark this occasion, inspired by a blend of ideas and the spirit of celebration found across our sources​​​​​​​​​​:

Host a Cheese Tasting Bash – Why not gather your pals for a goat cheese tasting? Make it fun by blindfolding guests and having them guess the cheese types. Laughter is guaranteed when someone mistakes chèvre for cheddar!

Embark on a Cheesy Adventure—Find the nearest goat farm and take a tour. Seeing those adorable goats and learning how your favorite cheese is made add layers to your appreciation. Plus, are the samples fresh from the source? Yes, please!

Craft Your Cheese – Roll up your sleeves and make some goat cheese at home. It’s easier than you think and gives you bragging rights at your next dinner party. “This cheese? Oh, I made it myself.”

Goat Cheese in Every Meal – Challenge yourself: Can you incorporate goat cheese into every meal of the day? Goat cheese pancakes for breakfast, a tangy goat cheese salad for lunch, and a goat cheese-topped pizza for dinner. Dessert? Goat cheese ice cream!

Cheese and Chill – Have a cozy night in with your favorite movies and a goat cheese platter. Pair different types of goat cheese with fruits, honey, and a good bottle of wine. It’s a simple pleasure that feels like a treat.

Spread the Cheese Love – Share the joy of goat cheese with friends and family. Gift them a small basket of assorted goat cheeses. It’s a unique gift that introduces them to the flavors of Goat Cheese Day.

Cheese Art – Get creative and use goat cheese as your medium. Create cheese sculptures or simply arrange a beautiful cheese board. Snap a photo, share it on social media, and watch the likes roll in.

Remember, it’s not just about eating cheese; it’s about celebrating the rich, tangy, and utterly delightful world of goat’s cheese. So, on this day, let your cheese flag fly high and savor every creamy, dreamy bite!

Why Celebrate Goat Cheese Day

From the crumbly feta to the smooth and spreadable chèvre, goat cheese adds a special touch to any dish, be it a simple salad or a gourmet meal​​​​​​​​​​.

But why do we celebrate this day? Well, it’s not just for the love of cheese. Goat Cheese Day highlights the versatility and nutritional benefits of goat’s cheese, which is lower in fat and calories compared to cow’s milk cheese, making it a healthier option for cheese lovers.

It’s a day to support local farmers and cheesemakers who pour their skills and passion into crafting these delightful cheeses. By exploring different varieties, hosting tastings, or even trying to make your own goat’s cheese, you’re participating in a tradition that celebrates creativity, culinary exploration, and, of course, the joy of eating cheese​​​​.

So, let’s raise our forks (and maybe a glass of wine) to goat cheese. Whether you’re a seasoned cheese connoisseur or new to the world of goat cheese, there’s no better time to dive into the flavors that make goat’s cheese a true culinary treasure.

Spread the word, share your favorite goat’s cheese dishes, and make Goat Cheese Day a celebration!

History of Goat Cheese Day

Goat Cheese Day has a unique story that takes us back to 1998. This was when the American Cheese Society and a French cheese producer, Bongrain, teamed up. They had a goal in mind: to shine a spotlight on goat cheese.

Their idea was to celebrate this cheese’s unique taste and health benefits. Goat cheese is not just any cheese; it’s known for its tangy flavor and creamy texture. Plus, it’s healthier than many other cheeses, being lower in fat and calories.

The journey of goat cheese itself starts much earlier, around 5000 BCE in ancient Greece. Back then, people discovered the delightful taste of cheese made from goat’s milk.

This cheese stood out for its sour and tangy flavor, thanks to the natural curdling of goat’s milk. Over the years, different countries developed their versions of goat’s cheese, making it a global favorite.

Goat Cheese Day is more than just an annual celebration. It’s a tribute to the diverse and rich flavors of this unique cheese. It also supports the hardworking farmers and cheesemakers who craft this delicious cheese.

From the creamy feta to the firm halloumi, goat cheese varieties are enjoyed worldwide. This day encourages us to explore and appreciate the wide range of goat cheeses available​​​​​​​​.

Goat Cheese Day FAQs

What is the historical significance of goat cheese in ancient civilizations?

Goat cheese dates back to ancient times. Nomadic tribes in the Middle East first domesticated goats over 9,000 years ago, relying on them for milk and cheese.

These early cheeses were simple, made by curdling goat’s milk and pressing the curds. The Greeks and Romans later embraced goat cheese, incorporating it into their diets and culinary traditions.

How do different cultures incorporate goat cheese into their cuisines?

Goat cheese features prominently in various global cuisines. In France, it’s used in salads and tarts.

In Greece, goat cheese varieties like feta are essential in dishes such as spanakopita and horiatiki. Mexican cuisine includes queso de cabra in tacos and enchiladas. Each culture adapts goat cheese to its unique culinary traditions.

What are some common myths about goat cheese?

A prevalent myth suggests that all goat cheese has a strong, gamey flavor. In reality, the taste varies based on factors like the goat’s diet, cheese age, and production methods.

Fresh goat cheese tends to be mild and creamy, while aged varieties develop more robust flavors.

How do people around the world celebrate Goat’s Cheese Day?

Celebrations vary globally. In France, cheese-tasting events feature local goat cheeses.

In the U.S., restaurants may offer special goat cheese dishes. Cheese-making workshops and farm tours are popular, allowing enthusiasts to learn about production and sample fresh cheeses.

What are some unique varieties of goat cheese from different regions?

The Loire Valley in France produces Valençay, a pyramid-shaped cheese with an ash coating. Spain offers Garrotxa, a semi-hard cheese with a nutty flavor.

Norway’s Brunost is a brown, caramel-like goat cheese enjoyed in thin slices. Each region’s cheese reflects its local traditions and environment.

What are the health benefits of consuming goat cheese?

Goat cheese is easier to digest than cow’s milk cheese due to its lower lactose content and different protein structure.

It’s rich in calcium, essential for bone health, and contains beneficial probiotics that support gut health. Additionally, goat cheese provides healthy fats and is a good source of vitamin A.

How has goat cheese production evolved over time?

Traditional goat cheese-making involved simple curdling and pressing methods.

Modern production incorporates advanced techniques to ensure consistency and safety, such as pasteurization and controlled aging environments.

Despite technological advancements, many producers maintain artisanal methods to preserve traditional flavors and textures.

What are some creative culinary uses for goat cheese?

Beyond salads and cheese boards, goat cheese enhances various dishes. It can be whipped into spreads, baked into pastries like tarts, or used as a pizza topping.

Its creamy texture complements desserts, pairing well with fruits and honey. Goat cheese also enriches sauces, adding depth to pasta dishes.

How does the aging process affect the flavor and texture of goat cheese?

Fresh goat cheese is soft, creamy, and has a mild flavor. As it ages, it loses moisture, becoming firmer and developing a more pronounced, tangy taste.

The rind that forms during aging can introduce earthy or nutty notes. Aging transforms the cheese’s characteristics, offering a range of sensory experiences.

What role does goat cheese play in sustainable agriculture?

Goats require less land and water than cows, making them suitable for sustainable farming practices.

They can graze on diverse vegetation, aiding in land management and reducing the need for chemical interventions.

Producing goat cheese supports small-scale farmers and contributes to agricultural biodiversity.

Source

[rabbitcruiser]

World Tapas Day

World Tapas Day, observed annually on the third Thursday of June, is an international holiday celebrating the small Spanish Tapa dish that is usually served with drinks. This year, it falls on June 19. Tapas may be served cold (such as in mixed olives and cheese) or hot. In some bars and restaurants in Spain, South America, Mexico, the United States, and a few other regions across the globe, tapas have evolved into a more sophisticated cuisine than one that is mundanely served with drinks. It can now be served as a full meal if desired. In some Central American countries, tapa snacks are known as ‘bocas,’ and in some parts of Mexico, it is referred to as ‘botanas.’

History of World Tapas Day

The word ‘tapas’ is derived from the Spanish verb ‘tapar,’ which means ‘to cover,’ a variation of the English word ‘top.’ In Spain, before the 19th century, tapas were served in posadas, albergues, or bodegas, which offered meals and rooms to travelers. Because few innkeepers and travelers could read and write, samples of the dishes were made available by innkeepers on a ‘tapa,’ which is a Spanish word for ‘pot cover.’

According to the book “The Joy of Cooking,” the first tapas were thin slices of bread or meat which sherry drinkers used to cover their glasses between sips to prevent fruit flies from hovering over their drink. The meat was normally ham or chorizo, both of which are very salty and activate thirst. This made bartenders and restaurant owners create a variety of snacks to serve with sherry, invariably increasing their alcohol sales. The tapas eventually became as important as the sherry. Tapas have evolved through Spanish history with new ingredients and influences.

The discovery and emergence of the New World birthed the introduction of tomatoes, sweet and chili peppers, which were readily accepted and grown in Spain’s microclimates, further contributing to the culture of tapas as we know it today. Since 2008, the city of Valladolid in Spain and the International School of Culinary Arts have celebrated the International Tapas Competition for Culinary Schools — an annual competition in Spain between global culinary schools to compete for the best tapa concept.

World Tapas Day timeline

1700s Tapas are Served by Innkeepers

Tapas are mostly served as snacks or parts of dishes offered to travelers by innkeepers until the 19th century.

1931 “The Joy of Cooking” is Published

The book “The Joy of Cooking” is published.

2008 The International Tapas Competition

An international competition of tapa concepts between global culinary schools begins in the city of Valladolid, Spain.

2010 World Tapas Day is Created

The holiday, World Tapas Day, is created.

World Tapas Day FAQs

What is the tradition of tapas?

The tradition of tapas dates back to when King Alfonso X of Castile recovered from an illness by drinking wine with small snacks between meals. After regaining his health, Alfonso issued an order prohibiting taverns from serving wine to clients unless it was accompanied by a small snack or “tapa.”

Why are tapas so important to the Spanish culture?

Tapas are important to the Spanish culture as they combine good food with family (or friends) time. This culture has spread throughout the world and become a popular way to put a twist on tradition.

Are tapas expensive?

Tapa prices vary based on size, ingredients used, and the type of bar serving them. While some can be really expensive, others are cheap or even free.

World Tapas Day Activities

Eat some tapas

Visit a Spanish/Mexican-themed bar

Share your experience on social media

What better way to celebrate World Tapas day than to eat some tapas? Either as part of a meal or as a full dish, be sure to share your delicious Spanish dish with your friends and family.

In Spain, South America, Central America, and parts of North America, visiting local bars is part of the tapa culture. But make sure you’re at the legal age to do so.

Whatever your experience is on World Tapas Day, preparing and eating it, or going for a few drinks with friends, be sure to share the fun on social media with the hashtag #WorldTapasDay. It’s a great way to participate!

5 Interesting Facts About Tapas

Tapas are finger food

The word ‘tapas’ means ‘lid’

Tapas are served with alcohol

Some bars offer free tapas

There’s a verb for eating tapas

Tapas aren’t the kinds of dishes you eat with traditional cutlery or utensils; they are eaten with your fingers.

‘Tapas’ is of Spanish origin and literally translates to ‘lid.’

Tapas are usually served with alcoholic beverages, hence their popularity in bars.

If you’re in the right bar at the right time, you might get a free tapa.

Spanish linguists have created a verb for eating tapas, which is ‘tapear’ meaning ‘to eat tapas.’

Why We Love World Tapas Day

Tapas are healthy

Tapas are versatile

A good way to socialize

Tapas can be served as purely vegetables or spices. Both are beneficial to the human body.

Tapas can either be eaten as a meal or in between meals. There are various recipes too!

Tapas are typically served at bars with alcoholic beverages. This makes them a good way to socialize.

Source

[rabbitcruiser]

Goats Cheese Day

I’ve always wanted to open up a brewery/goat farm. Brew some beer, make some goat cheese, but that’s kind of dreamy. - Adam Lamberg

See what goats cheeses are local to your area, and give them a try. Find a recipe, or simply taste-test a few to see what you like best and diversify your food.

Typically when we think of cheese, we imagine fields of cows and massive dairy operations or juicy hamburgers topped with delicious and flavorful cheese. What if we told you that cows are not the only animals whose milk can be used to make cheese? They are by far the most popular, in part due to their ability to produce impressive quantities, but there are other forms of milk that can be made into cheese, and many of them are surprisingly delicious… Goats Cheese Day celebrates one such cheese, and one of the secrets that modern science has hidden in the milk it’s made from.

History of Goats Cheese Day

Goat’s milk has been used to make cheese for centuries, and there are examples of it all over the world. In fact, with every new country that it springs up in new and unique varieties appear by local craftsmen and women. Goat cheese can be made from an incredibly simple process, simply allowing the milk to curdle naturally and then pressing the whey out so only the curds remain. There are certainly other techniques that can be used, such as used some form of acid to help curdle the milk or the traditional rennet that’s used in many other cheesemaking processes.

Like most cheese, goat cheese comes in both hard and soft varieties, but unlike cow’s milk cheese it doesn’t quite melt the same way when heated. Goat cheese can be served with crackers or fruit, though with the firmer cheese contained in rinds heating is often necessary, often baking in an oven, to create a texture with a rich thick texture capable of being spread.

How to celebrate Goats Cheese Day

The best way to celebrate goats cheese day is to get out there and try the cheeses that are local to your area. If you’re in a country where goats cheese is produced, it’s likely that you’ll find a goat farm near your home that produces this delicious dairy treat. You’ll likely be surprised at the sheer variety that’s available, like Chevre with lavender and wild fennel, or the Grecian mizithra cheese. Goats Cheese Day celebrates this delicious cheese and all the varieties it comes in, as well as raising awareness that cows certainly do not reign supreme as a source for delicious cheeses.

Source

[rabbitcruiser]

World Tapas Day

World Tapas Day, observed annually on the third Thursday of June, is an international holiday celebrating the small Spanish Tapa dish that is usually served with drinks. This year, it falls on June 20. Tapas may be served cold (such as in mixed olives and cheese) or hot. In some bars and restaurants in Spain, South America, Mexico, the United States, and a few other regions across the globe, tapas have evolved into a more sophisticated cuisine than one that is mundanely served with drinks. It can now be served as a full meal if desired. In some Central American countries, tapa snacks are known as ‘bocas,’ and in some parts of Mexico, it is referred to as ‘botanas.’

History of World Tapas Day

The word ‘tapas’ is derived from the Spanish verb ‘tapar,’ which means ‘to cover,’ a variation of the English word ‘top.’ In Spain, before the 19th century, tapas were served in posadas, albergues, or bodegas, which offered meals and rooms to travelers. Because few innkeepers and travelers could read and write, samples of the dishes were made available by innkeepers on a ‘tapa,’ which is a Spanish word for ‘pot cover.’

According to the book “The Joy of Cooking,” the first tapas were thin slices of bread or meat which sherry drinkers used to cover their glasses between sips to prevent fruit flies from hovering over their drink. The meat was normally ham or chorizo, both of which are very salty and activate thirst. This made bartenders and restaurant owners create a variety of snacks to serve with sherry, invariably increasing their alcohol sales. The tapas eventually became as important as the sherry. Tapas have evolved through Spanish history with new ingredients and influences.

The discovery and emergence of the New World birthed the introduction of tomatoes, sweet and chili peppers, which were readily accepted and grown in Spain’s microclimates, further contributing to the culture of tapas as we know it today. Since 2008, the city of Valladolid in Spain and the International School of Culinary Arts have celebrated the International Tapas Competition for Culinary Schools — an annual competition in Spain between global culinary schools to compete for the best tapa concept.

World Tapas Day timeline

1700s Tapas are Served by Innkeepers

Tapas are mostly served as snacks or parts of dishes offered to travelers by innkeepers until the 19th century.

1931 “The Joy of Cooking” is Published

The book “The Joy of Cooking” is published.

2008 The International Tapas Competition

An international competition of tapa concepts between global culinary schools begins in the city of Valladolid, Spain.

2010 World Tapas Day is Created

The holiday, World Tapas Day, is created.

World Tapas Day FAQs

What is the tradition of tapas?

The tradition of tapas dates back to when King Alfonso X of Castile recovered from an illness by drinking wine with small snacks between meals. After regaining his health, Alfonso issued an order prohibiting taverns from serving wine to clients unless it was accompanied by a small snack or “tapa.”

Why are tapas so important to the Spanish culture?

Tapas are important to the Spanish culture as they combine good food with family (or friends) time. This culture has spread throughout the world and become a popular way to put a twist on tradition.

Are tapas expensive?

Tapa prices vary based on size, ingredients used, and the type of bar serving them. While some can be really expensive, others are cheap or even free.

World Tapas Day Activities

Eat some tapas

Visit a Spanish/Mexican-themed bar

Share your experience on social media

What better way to celebrate World Tapas day than to eat some tapas? Either as part of a meal or as a full dish, be sure to share your delicious Spanish dish with your friends and family.

In Spain, South America, Central America, and parts of North America, visiting local bars is part of the tapa culture. But make sure you’re at the legal age to do so.

Whatever your experience is on World Tapas Day, preparing and eating it, or going for a few drinks with friends, be sure to share the fun on social media with the hashtag #WorldTapasDay. It’s a great way to participate!

5 Interesting Facts About Tapas

Tapas are finger food

The word ‘tapas’ means ‘lid’

Tapas are served with alcohol

Some bars offer free tapas

There’s a verb for eating tapas

Tapas aren’t the kinds of dishes you eat with traditional cutlery or utensils; they are eaten with your fingers.

‘Tapas’ is of Spanish origin and literally translates to ‘lid.’

Tapas are usually served with alcoholic beverages, hence their popularity in bars.

If you’re in the right bar at the right time, you might get a free tapa.

Spanish linguists have created a verb for eating tapas, which is ‘tapear’ meaning ‘to eat tapas.’

Why We Love World Tapas Day

Tapas are healthy

Tapas are versatile

A good way to socialize

Tapas can be served as purely vegetables or spices. Both are beneficial to the human body.

Tapas can either be eaten as a meal or in between meals. There are various recipes too!

Tapas are typically served at bars with alcoholic beverages. This makes them a good way to socialize.

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World Vegetarian Day

Explore the vegetarian cuisine for a day, and see if this lifestyle could help you improve your health, happiness, and the environment all at once.

Every year there are thousands of people making the move to a healthier, more socially responsible way of living. These people care about the lives of animals and want cruelty to come to an end, they want to live long healthy lives and avoid the perils of heart disease, and they want to have beautiful bodies sustained by living in tune with the Earth. Who are these people? They’re vegetarians, and World Vegetarian Day celebrates their decision to eliminate meat and animal products from their diet and live a more conscientious life.

Learn about World Vegetarian Day

Did you know that roughly every one in ten people around the world is a vegetarian? That figure often shocks people. It’s more than you would probably expect, right? A lot of people are also surprised to learn the fact that India is the country that has the lowest meat consumption per capita around the globe.

On World Vegetarian Day, we celebrate all of the good things that are associated with being a vegetarian. It is a good day to show people that you can still enjoy eating food by going meat-free! It is not boring, and there are some amazing recipes out there.

Even if you are not a vegetarian yourself, you can celebrate World Vegetarian Day. Why not go vegetarian for this day and see how you manage? From veggie burgers and cheese pizza to tofu and carrot sticks; there are a lot of amazing meat-free delights that you can enjoy on this day. Plus, you never know, it may inspire you to have more meat-free days in the future.

There are a number of different benefits that are associated with going meat-free. Firstly, you have the benefits for your body. Vegetarian diets tend to involve consuming a lot of the good stuff that you cannot typically find in meat. This includes a large number of phytochemicals, unsaturated fat, magnesium, vitamins E and C, folic acid, and fiber. This translates into a healthier weight, lower blood pressure, reduced risk of heart disease, and also lower cholesterol.

If that was not enough, going veggie also offers a number of different benefits in terms of the environment. Not only does this spare animals, but it conserves fossil fuel too. For example, one calorie of beef requires 78 calories of fossil fuel! This is something that a lot of people don’t realize. For soybeans, only one calorie of fossil fuel is needed for one calorie of beef. This means that it is 780 percent more efficient when compared to the production of meat.

History of World Vegetarian Day

World Vegetarian Day was established by the North American Vegetarian Society (NAVS) in 1977 to help promote the vegetarian way of life, and educate people on the health and social benefits of making the move to eliminate meat from their diets. As omnivores, humans are capable of surviving in complete health on a diet that contains no animal meat or products of any kind, but are there other benefits than merely a clean conscience?

As it turns out, the answer is an unequivocal yes. Vegetarian diets are significantly more healthy than diets that contain animal products, especially when you are conscientious about your fat intake. With a low-fat vegetarian diet you can completely avoid any issues with cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in the United States alone.

Not only do vegetarian diet remove animal fat and cholesterol from their diets (especially true for vegans), but they consume more fiber and anti-oxidants, well known for their ability to fight cancer! So profound is the effect of vegetarianism on our health it has statistically been shown to add 13 healthy years to our lives.

Need more proof? Just look at Okinawa, where the people with the longest life-span in the world live. Guess what their diet primarily consists of?

How to celebrate World Vegetarian Day

Even if you have no desire to live a Vegetarian lifestyle every day, give yourself a chance to explore the world that is vegetarian cuisine on World Vegetarian Day. Explore the health benefits and find out how delicious and healthy eating no animal products can be by eliminating them from your diet for just one day.

It can even give you an opportunity to try out new restaurants and dishes, just stop in at your local vegetarian restaurant or order off the vegetarian menu at your favorite restaurant. Recruit some friends to go with you and have a wonderful night out, without hurting any animals!

There are a number of other ways that you can celebrate World Vegetarian Day as well. Aside from opting for a meat-free day, you can also enrich your knowledge and/or share your knowledge about the benefits of being a vegetarian online. Educate your friends, followers, and family members about the advantages of going vegetarian. You will find a lot of resources online about this. Especially on World Vegetarian Day, there are going to be a lot of infographics, videos, and other pieces of content that are going to be going around, so why not share these with people you connect with online so that you can be part of this movement?

Another way to observe World Vegetarian Day is by shopping at your local farmer’s market. Farmer markets tend to have some of the most delicious and freshest fruits and vegetables. With fall in the air, you should have no trouble finding a good selection of meat-free foods that appeal to your mood and your tastebuds.

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