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How to Tame Cuban Rum
The liquid and smoke appeal of Cuba. We’re talking about rum and cigars, of course, the quintessential symbols of the Caribbean country whose allure has lasted decades and transcended generations. The culture of Cuban rum and cigars has given Cuba that permanent ambience of vintage glamour and decadence. Focusing solely on Cuban-style rum is enough…
Top 5 Tastes of Spain
The cuisine of Spain is a patchwork of influences – Roman, Greek, and even Arab, Persian, and Indian. Owed in part to historical invasions and conquests, Spanish food is a true mixture of flavors. Even more so than other countries, the tastes of Spain are incredibly varied, separated into distinct regional flavors with their own produce and…
What is a sommelier?
While beer sommeliers (or cicerones), sake sommeliers, and even water sommeliers are emerging in the world of beverage professionals, traditional sommeliers are wine experts. They’re absolutely the best of the best, having deeply researched all things wine, from varietals, to aging processes, to serving practices, to pairings. Pronounced soh-meh-lyay, a sommelier can also go by the antiquated term wine steward or wine waiter.…
How to Use Exotic Spices in Everyday Dishes
My number one goal when traveling is to taste something new each day. This usually means I end up with a few edible souvenirs to bring back home, including a variety of spices. With a bounty of exotic ingredients in my spice cabinet I try to challenge myself with new recipes that remind me of…
Whet Your Appetite: Puglia
Puglia, or Apulia, is the heel of Italy’s boot. This region borders the Adriatic Sea, providing gorgeous coastal views, fresh seafood, and a vibrant feel. No wonder it’s a common summer destination for Italians. Puglia is a fantastic place to explore if you’re looking for something truly authentic and a little off the beaten path in…
Chef Chats: Catching up with Stephen Gillanders
Stephen Gillanders is the Executive Chef and Partner at Intro in Chicago, known for its upscale à la carte cuisine. Gillanders started his culinary career young, going into training at the age of fifteen in his hometown of Los Angeles. After receiving his advanced degree in Culinary Arts Management at the University of Nevada, Gillanders went on to win…
How To Give The Perfect Toast
We toast to celebrate, to honor, to send our good wishes and goodwill. At celebrations, ceremonies, holidays, or even just casual dinners with friends or family, the act of toasting has become a crucial social tradition. But where did it come from? How widespread is the practice and what are the different traditions? Read on…
Top 5 Tastes: Vietnam
We prepped your taste buds in Whet Your Appetite: Vietnam, and now we’re delving into our specific top eats of this amazing Southeast Asian gem. Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, excellent use of spices, and all around healthiness. It’s a cuisine influenced by a variety of other cultures. The French impact on Vietnamese cuisine…
