For unique foodie experiences head to Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo On my last couple of visits to Buenos Aires my time was limited, so naturally I wanted every meal to count, I wanted it to be great, not just good. I talked to nearly every local I knew to get their restaurant recommendations and I found that on almost everyone’s list was a closed door restaurant. Although they are not a new phenomenon I noticed that there is still a buzz about town for the mysterious puerta cerrada, as it’s known in Argentina. After the economic crisis of 2001, these home-grown businesses became an entrepreneurial trend, and one that has spread to other cities such as the gastronomic hub of Sao Paulo. In my opinion these off-the-beaten-track culinary experiences offer more than the average restaurant. Firstly, the food is just like home cooking, made by passionate and friendly locals…
It’s that time again! Who else is hungry? This week I will be teaching you about the good old South American empanada (and its closest relatives). The Lowdown In Argentina the empanada is a firm favourite for filling a rumbling belly, adults and kids alike. The typically savoury snack (if you need a visual, it resembles a small Cornish pasty) dates back centuries and was originally brought over from Galicia, Northwest Spain where it was invented as a portable lunch for workmen. I have to say that a visit to Argentina is not complete until you have tried a locally baked (or deep fried) empanada with any of the various fillings. The flavoursome pastries are most commonly stuffed with either ham and cheese, spinach and ricotta, minced beef or shredded chicken and accompanied by chopped onion and a mixture of spices. A plate of warm empanadas is ideal shared as…
