Wales

Like much of the U.K., Wales has outgrown a reputation for not being an eating destination. Today, you can find great restaurants all over the country, ranging from those that serve locally inspired meals to Chinese and French food. For traditional Welsh food, order Welsh lamb, a delicacy here but also exported and enjoyed outside of the country. Bacon is highly prized, with a national dish made in its honor. Seaweed is even cooked with bacon to create a healthful dish called Laverbread. Welsh Black Beef is also famous as are the delicious cheese selections.

Celtic laws in the 10th century allowed only two vegetables to be grown—leeks and cabbage—so you’ll find these in many dishes. The Welsh people are focused on keeping their traditions alive. Cawl, a soup that was cooked over an open fire in ancient times, is still popular. The tradition of cooking cakes on a “bakestone, ” which is a simple, primitive oven, still turns out a variety of Welsh pancakes, teacakes, breads and oatcakes. For a taste of the bakestone cooking technique, try Bara Brith (Welsh bread), Tease Cinnamon (cinnamon cake), or the spicy cakes. Every year the Lampeter Food Festival draws importers from all over the world to this beautiful part of Wales. It’s an enjoyable way to see and taste what famous Welsh chefs are creating and pick up an ingredient or two.—Denise Shoukas

0 comments