Nyummy Gnocci Time

I enjoyed gnocci (pronounced na-yoe-kee) twice in Switzerland. Each dish was delightfully different from the other. Gnocci are small potato balls boiled and drenched in a delightful sauce. This dish was a mild curry with a saffron accent.

Beautiful Bruschetta

Fresh bread, firm tomatoes, and just the right seasoning. The proprietor of this Swiss Pizzeria spoke no English , but we communicated in the language that is universal.

Eating Well in Basel

Restaurants in Switzerland are very expensive and slow. The average dinner is 35 CHF and takes between an hour and a half and two hours. For a quick low cost meal look for a tiny market and pick up a loaf of bread, some cheese and fruit. On a warm day enjoy a picnic BT the Rheine river. Bon appetite.

Tomato Time - Think Global

Last year I had an abundant garden full of Archie Millet's AGE tomatoes - Archie's Good Eat in'. This year I patiently tended the little plants, watching the green tomatoes start to grow. Sadly, upon my return from Europe I found that Bambi, his mother, sister, aunts and cousins had stripped my tomatoes down to the stems.

But God provides. At Church this week two friends invited me to share in their bounty. Rachel's garden gave me tomatoes from France, China, Japan, Russia, and plenty from the USA. Beth's garden is overflowing with AGE. Break out the canning jars.

Netherlands Specialty

Croquettes are a hot, hearty Netherlands dish. You can choose a variety of fillings from beef and gravy to more spicy chicken fillings. Be careful on that first bite!

International Pizza and Soda Pop

When traveling by train from Amsterdam to Basel one does get thirsty. While local wines are plentiful, I prefer to enjoy the local soda pop. Bionade is a lightly sweetened orange and ginger drink. Like most European drinks, it is lightly carbonated and served only slightly cooler than room temperature.

Dining on a budget? In Switzerland?

Basel is a beautiful city. Ir's a lovely mix if old and new. A McDonalds sits across the street from the train station. And the price of Royal Burger combo with fries? A mere 13 Swiss Franks - about $13.50 U.S.

Southwest Eggrolls?

Different. Spicy. Sweet. Claim jumpers has blended East and Southwest into a tasty appetizer.

Lima - City of Three Surprises

Three things surprised me about Lima.

1. As I sit typing this block entry, a short fireworks show began across the street, for no apparent reason.

2. When you order pineapple juice (jugo de pina), the waiter asks if you want it chilled or fresh.

3. Tuna is a green fruit, not a big fish.