May 2-16
Dramatic landscapes strewn with antique
sites and charming villages. Fertile growing lands producing an abundance
of vegetables, fruits, olive and citrus. This is the lovely Aegean
region, our focus of this land/sea adventure. Experience the area's distinctive
regional food preparations, noted for its dishes of wild and cultivated
greens, vegetables specially prepared with olive oil, and fresh fish. Meaty
cranberry beans simmered in fruity olive oil, börek pastries with fillings
of mixed greens and feta, hearty stews of chickpea and tomato, delicate
squash blossoms stuffed with rice and fresh herbs; these are just a few
of the culinary delights of this region.
After our initial exploration of Istanbul (see description) we will
journey to Izmir (Smyrna) a lively cosmopolitan city on the Aegean sea,
where we will explore the fascinating market area and dine in a local restaurant.
The next day we journey south, stopping to explore the dramatic archaeological
sites of Priene and Miletus, enroute to Bodrum, a
charming town with a spectacular Crusader castle situated at the harbour
entrance. Here we will be based for several days as we explore several special
food markets in nearby towns and acquaint ourselves with the local produce,
spices, cheeses and other foods featured in the regional cuisine. Our last
day in Bodrum begins with an extensive tour of the colorful weekly fruit
and vegetable market. In the evening we will board our awaiting gulet in
the harbour, our comfortable home for the rest of the journey, for a delicious
welcome dinner. The next morning we will depart for six days of spectacular
motor-sailing along the coast, stopping to explore ancient ruins and villages,
and enjoying the wonderful food prepared on board. Each day we will focus
on some aspect of the region's cuisine, including discussions on food history
and plant use, demonstrations and participation. Creamy eggplant salad,
fresh purslane with garlic and yogurt sauce, delectable stuffed vegetables
and hearty tomato stews with legumes are just a few of the delicious dishes
we will learn to prepare.
