Smak Ukrainski

No, that title isn’t a further command from the Fuhrer in the Kremlin. Smak Ukrainski happens to be something you really should do the next time you happen to be in Krakow in Poland.

Whilst many fabulous Polish restaurants were tried and loved, I simply couldn’t resist an opportunity of my first Ukraine culinary experience.

We seem to be struggling and stumbling to fully support their fight for survival against a vicious aggressor. Yet, it turns out they are supporting us in quite delicious ways. The following is just a selection from the full menu…

Plums with Bacon turns out to be something of a sweet and sour taste explosion that leaves your pigs in blankets thrashing about in the proverbial…

Then there is the option of Potato Cakes & Goulash with a side of Young Fried Cabbage. Meat and two veg will never be the same.

But, if Ukraine cuisine came as a pleasant surprise, that was nothing compared to the first discovery of Ukrainian red wine.

After perusing five pages of Georgian wines I was already in liquid heaven. Then the final page delivered up the beautiful surprise.

The dry Merlot instantly opened my eyes to a hitherto unexpected source of the desired nectar. It’s smooth and bold enough to open up peace negotiations with anyone. Well, probably not with intransigent psychopathic Russians.

Until we speak again, it seems Ukraine has a high class offer for us. It’s about time we reciprocated with more than the current warm words and promises.

Memories of Krakow

It’s difficult to address the subject of Krakow without a mention of Auschwitz Birkenau

Or even the Wieliczka Salt Mines

But an abiding memory of my recent visit is of Kazimierz… the vibrant Jewish quarter before everyone was either murdered or herded into the smaller neighbouring Podgorze ghetto. All that remains of the ghetto walls is the tombstone-like section in Podgorze

As for Kazimierz, it’s now once again a thriving area of young people and tourists enjoying cafes, restaurants, and music venues.

However, many signs of its Jewish history haunt the atmospheric streets…

As for eating, the choice is abundant. My recommendation goes for some traditional fine Polish cuisine at Zalewajka. The pork knuckle terrine, potato cakes with wild boar goulash, and house Polish red wine provided a fine feast to mark my visit.

Until we speak again, Kazimierz offers a warm welcome… but don’t forget an umbrella!