Travel to Europe to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work,

or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

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 Europe

Intro

Backpacking or traveling in Europe?

  • Backpacking: Europe is the region where you can best get your first backpacking experience as a backpacker, island hopping, interraveling, hitchhiking or flixbusing.
  • Travel: perhaps the most versatile travel area with a wide variety of culture, impressive architecture, varied nature and diverse climates.
  • Checking: all the countries of Europe
  • Activity spotting: hiking in one of the many beautiful mountain ranges such as the Alps, Pyrenees, Dolomites, take pictures in tulip fields, discover Roman, Ottoman and Greek history, drink the most delicious wines and live the Burgundian life, relax on the Mediterranean beaches, visit pubs and listen to Celtic music, admire medieval castles, ski and climb in the wilderness of Scandinavia, behold the northern lights, discover Eastern European culture and hospitality etc...  
  • Animal spotting: brown bear, Iberian wolf, lynx, dolphins, flamingos, basking shark, wisents, wild cats, reindeer.... 

Studying in Europe?

  • In Europe you will find a huge choice of studies, with renowned universities and educational institutions scattered across the continent. Because of the Bologna system, it is easy to compare and transfer studies and qualifications.  
  • You can study anywhere in Europe. In general, the quality of education is better in the richer countries (Western Europe and Northern Europe). For example, if you want a good technical education, look in Germany. Studying here is also free in many cases. England has some of the most famous universities in the world. There is a big focus on research and humanities, law, medicine and business studies are particularly popular. Then again, the cost is incredibly high. 
  • The Netherlands is known for studies in water management, environmental sciences, international relations and design. The focus is on research and international programs. Costs are average (and relatively high for foreign students). 
  • In France, you can go for art, fashion, literature, philosophy, as well as business administration! The quality is good and there are many historical institutions, especially in Paris. Also, studying does not cost much. 
  • Sweden and Denmark are known for innovation, sustainable development and design. Universities have a progressive and innovative approach. Education for EU students is free! 
  • Italy, of course, is known for fashion, design, art history and architecture. Costs are reasonably low, as is living expenses. 
  • Eastern Europe has good universities with growing reputations. Often with international programs as well. Tuition and living costs are low, making it popular for budget-conscious students. 

Internship in Europe?

  • There are an awful lot of options. Some sector-specific options are: 
  • Germany for IT, engineering and the automotive industry, the UK for finance, marketing, media, consulting, the Netherlands for internships in water management, environmental and sustainability projects, France and Italy for fashion, art, culture and the culinary sector, Scandinavia for sustainable development, tech and design. 
  • Language: depends on the country - in the UK and Ireland it can of course be in English. In countries like Spain, Italy, and France, mastering the local language can increase the chances of getting an internship placement, especially in customer-facing sectors. In countries like Belgium, Luxembourg, and Switzerland, internships may require you to speak multiple languages, depending on the region.
  • Formal Culture: In Germany and Switzerland, the work culture is often formal and structured, with clear expectations and procedures.
  • Informal Culture: Scandinavian countries and the Netherlands have a more informal work culture, with a focus on work-life balance and open communication.

Volunteering in Europe?

  • Volunteering in nature parks, forest management, and biodiversity projects is popular in countries such as Spain, Italy, and the Nordic countries. Projects can range from protecting endangered species to restoring natural areas.
  • In many European countries, you can volunteer to work with children and youth, for example by teaching English, organizing youth activities, or being a mentor in after-school programs.
  • In countries such as Germany, France, and the Netherlands, there are many opportunities to work with vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, refugees, or people with disabilities, often in cooperation with NGOs and local organizations.
  • Volunteering in museums, cultural festivals, or in restoration projects of historical heritage is an option in countries rich in history such as Greece and France.
  • Language: in tourist and international cities, such as Amsterdam, Berlin, or Barcelona, there are many volunteer opportunities that require only English. For volunteering in more remote or small-scale communities, it may be helpful to speak or be prepared to learn the local language, especially in social care or education projects.

Working in Europe?

  • You can find jobs all over Europe in all sectors. 
  • Countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and France have strong economies with diverse industries, including automotive, finance, technology, and engineering. 
  • Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Denmark are known for their focus on technology, sustainability, and design, and offer many opportunities in these innovative sectors. 
  • In cities such as Paris, Milan, and Barcelona, there are numerous opportunities in the fashion, art, and cultural sectors. 
  • Southern European countries such as Spain, Italy, and Greece have large tourism sectors, with many employment opportunities in hospitality, recreation, and tourism. 
  • In Eastern Europe, it can be more difficult to find work because of the weaker economy. 
  • Work culture: Work cultures vary widely across Europe. Germany and Switzerland tend to have more formal work cultures with a strong emphasis on punctuality and efficiency. In contrast, countries such as the Netherlands and Sweden have a more informal and egalitarian work atmosphere, with a focus on work-life balance. Many Eastern European countries have a relatively hierarchical work culture, where respect for authority and clear structures are important. Employees are expected to follow the instructions of their superiors without much contradiction.
  • Working conditions: Europe generally has good labor laws that protect workers, such as legal vacation days, parental leave, and health insurance. Working conditions are often well regulated with clear rights and obligations for employees.

Working as a digital nomad in Europe?

  • Europe is an incredibly comfortable continent for digital nomads. You have all the comforts, the Internet is excellent, the climate wonderful (depending on the country, of course) and there are many travelers, expats and locals to make friends with. It can be quite pricey, though, depending on where you are. 
  • Favorite locations: Lisbon, Barcelona, Tallinn, Budapest, Prague, Amsterdam, Krakow, Tbilisi, Berlin, Valencia. 

Living in Europe?

  • Language: almost every country in Europe has its own language or accent. When you want to integrate you will have to learn about the local language and culture.
  • Living environment: countries that score high with expats and emigrants are (varying) in order: Spain, Portugal, Finland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden, and Greece.
  • Healthcare: the quality of healthcare in most countries is good.
  • Health care costs: once you start working in another country, your local health insurance often expires, then you will have to insure locally. Seek advice on insurances that provide sufficient coverage for proper care and also repatriation in case of emergency.

Supporting content

Supporting content:
Travel, living and working in Europe
Emigration, moving and living abroad: in countries in Europe

Emigration, moving and living abroad: in countries in Europe

Questions and answers per country about emigration, moving and living abroad in Europe

Why live in Luxembourg, why emigrate to Luxembourg or stay for a long time?

Why live in Luxembourg, why emigrate to Luxembourg or stay for a long time?

Why should you live in Luxembourg as an expat, emigrant or working nomad?

  • Because the quality of life can be very good in Luxembourg, provided you have a well-paid job. 
  • Because you can learn a lot about other cultures. 
  • Because the economy is stable.
  • Because you can develop your language skills in multiple areas.
  • Because you can learn a lot about intercultural communication. 
  • Because you can further develop your professional skills and gain an international network. 
  • Because living in a country with a strong economy and financial sector can increase your knowledge of it. 
  • Because there is a lot to experience for all ages.

What should you pay attention to?

  • That Luxembourg can be bureaucratic. 
  • That the cost of living is high.
  • That housing can be hard to find. 
  • That you may need (basic) knowledge of German, French and Luxembourgish.
 
Why to live in Portugal, why to emigrate to Portugal or stay for a long time?

Why to live in Portugal, why to emigrate to Portugal or stay for a long time?

Why live in Portugal as an expat, emigrant or working nomad?

  • because conditions in Portugal are good in terms of security and safety, climate, nature and history.
  • because Portuguese are community people and value friendships.
  • because the cost of living is relatively low.
  • because the work culture is hierarchical and formal. 
  • because Portuguese are open to ideas from foreigners.

What should you pay attention to?

  • that it is difficult to find a job if you don't speak Portuguese.
  • that local wages are generally low.
  • that the Portuguese are generally more flexible with deadlines.
Why to live in Spain, why to emigrate to Spain or stay for a long time?

Why to live in Spain, why to emigrate to Spain or stay for a long time?

Why should you live in Spain as an expat, emigrant or working nomad?

  • because of the fact that Spain has more than 300 sunny days a year, so you can enjoy the outdoors to the fullest.
  • because of the relaxed and social lifestyle.
  • because of its fascinating traditions and delicious gastronomy.
  • because the cost of living is relatively low.
  • because there is less focus on sticking strictly to fixed working hours, which gives flexibility.
  • What to look out for?

What should you pay attention to?

  • that bureaucracy can be cumbersome and slow.
  • that finding a job can be challenging.
  • that siesta at noon is still common in many places
What are typical European habits, food customs and remarkable philosophies?

What are typical European habits, food customs and remarkable philosophies?

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Habits in Albania

  • Superstitousness - Albanian are very superstitious people. The evil eye is a superstitious belief. The evil eye means that someone could become jealous or envious of you and your family and do a black magic ritual to bring you bad luck.
  • Other Albanian beliefs are don't point at a graveyard with your finger.
  • One for good luck: Throwing salt or sugar to the ground will bring good luck.
  • When you enter a friend's house step inside with your right foot first.
  • When you are in Albania, you can see Dordolec - That is a protective doll or stuffed animal placed on a house or property. It acts as a charm to ward off the evil eye – a curse believed to be brought on by envy. Essentially, it's a decoy to attract envious gazes, the homeowner's possessions will be protected from misfortune this way. Or Dordolec can also mean "scarecrow" which protects crops from birds.
  • Besa - An unique concept which means "keeping the promise" and forms the structure of Albanian social life. It emphasizes honor, loyalty and hospitality. It forms the moral code that guides interactions in daily life.

Habits in Austria

  • People in Austria love their sweets, breakfast most of the time consists of sweet breads, or with honey or jam. Apfelstrudel is an all time Austrian favorite served with coffee.
  • It is normal to drink alcohol in Austria, also during lunchtime. Schnaps is a common drink, it is a drink with fruits, without any additional sugar in it.
  • To add (flat or sizzling) water with the wine, literally is very common. 
  • Costume is socially completely accepted in everyday life in Austria. Besides the famous Lederhosen and Dirndls, there are many other forms of authentic costume that you can find, not only in villages but also in cities. By the way the woman's apron is tied, you can tell if she is single or married.
  • In 1685 the first coffeehouse was opened. Austrian coffeehouses are famous. Did you know that Vienna's coffee houses are officially recognized cultural heritage and have also been recognized as such with UNESCO.
  • Yodeling is an ancient tradition found not only in Austria, but also in other Alpine countries. The history of yodeling goes back to prehistoric times, making it one of the oldest means of communication. With yodeling, people communicate with each other between two different mountains, always switching between chest and head voice. 
  • Almabtrieb - Once the days get shorter and temperatures drop, it is time for the shepherds and shepherdesses to take the livestock back from the alpine pastures to the stables. During Almabtrieb, people celebrate the success of summer and the fact that the animals have returned safely. There are parades with decorated cattle, farmers' markets and live music. Almabtrieb takes place every year between September and October.

Habits in France

  • France is the land of liberté, égalité and fraternité. And every year the French show this by going on strike if they disagree with something. This often takes place in March and April. 
  • La Bise - It is quite normal in France to greet someone with some kisses. In some areas they give two kisses, in others even four. Moreover, this is also regularly done when you see someone for the first time and want to introduce yourself.
  • Both at noon and in the evening they eat warm food, and often go for three courses. It is therefore quite normal at lunch to order an appetizer and dessert, and it is certainly customary to drink a glass of wine with it. 
  • Think France, think cheese, baguette, madeleine cookies, champagne, escargos, crepes all bought on the marche (market).
  • Apéro: Around drinking time (between 6 and 8 p.m.), the terraces fill up with people enjoying an "apéro." This is a time to relax with a drink and some tasty snacks.
  • Chansons -  French music, or chanson, is loved around the world. Enjoy the beautiful melodies and lyrics of artists such as Edith Piaf, Jullette Greco and Charles Aznavour.

Habits in Poland

  • Food, food, food and food. Love goes through the stomach. A lot of plates and a lot of food is meant as a warm welcome. Food like bigos, zurek, rosol and pierogi. There are a lot of choices of sausages and ham.
  • Poland is very proud of their culture and traditions. 
  • Wodka is the drink of the country, and special wodka bars. Many wodka with spices and flavors are served.
  • Wigilia (Christmas Eve) is an important celebration. 12 dishes without meat stands for the 12 apostles.
  • Name days are celebrated, you can compare it to celebrate a birthdays. Each day of the year is associated with specific names (of saints). Name days are celebrated with parties and family of course.
  • Kapcie are offered to you, once you enter a house or a hotel. Kapcie are your house shoes. You dont want to walk around in your shoes or on your socks.
  • Family is important, time is spent with family. 

Habits in Portugal

  • The Portuguese are traditional and conservative. Innovation and major changes within the family or community are not easily accepted. Life in Portugal revolves around the family and even now in the 21st century, old customs and traditions can be seen daily.
  • Fado is a typical Portuguese music movement from the 19th century and the life song of the locals. While Fado used to be popular only in bars and brothels of the poorer neighborhoods in Lisbon and Coimbra, nowadays it is very popular and you come across it in many places.
  • Typically Portuguese are azulejos, Portuguese tiles that you find a lot on and in railway stations, churches and houses. Often they are blue and white, but they can also be richly colored.
  • Ginja - The liqueur is always served in a shot glass, with a spirit at the bottom. 
  • Port is also a typical Portuguese drink.
  • A lot of fish is eaten, which is not surprising given the coastline of 850 kilometers. Popular fish dishes are the bacalhau recipes used to prepare dried cod. It is said that there is a bacalhau recipe for every day of the year. Besides dried cod, grilled sardines and caldeirada, stew with potato and different types of fish, are favorites. The Portugese love their meat as well: chicken piri-piri or arroz de sarrabulho (rice with pigblood).
  • Most towns and villages in Portugal have their own traditional festas or romarias. Romarias are local religious festivals that honor the saints of a particular area in Portugal.
  • Time is relative and being late for appointments is very common. 

Habits in Spain

  • Siesta-Nap and relax time (shops are generally closed) when the sun is shining between 2.30 and 4.30 PM.
  • Tapas-Shared with drinks and in company, small dishes. In many ways served from the counter or from the menu: grilled pimiento, manchego, chorizo, patatas bravas, tortilla.
  • Dinner is eaten late during the evening, 9 PM is general time to start. 
  • Flamenco-Dance from Andalusia, with costumes and music with a soul.
  • Eat a grape, every hour the clock makes a sound on new year's eve. Twelve times and it will bring you prosperity.
  • Kisses (two) are common as a greeting, also when you don't know each other well.
  • Manana, manana means tomorrow, in general do not stress out and take it easy. Do not worry the Spanish are not so strict with their punctuality, being late is common.
  • Cursing and talking loud is part of the culture. Often you can just follow conversations on the street.
Europe: Updates & Travel

Europe: Updates & Travel

Travel in Europe?

  • Europe is still the number one holiday destination for most people living in Europe. Since all countries are relatively close to each other. France and Spain quickly emerge as top destinations. They are almost a model for everything Europe has to offer with rustic (camping) surroundings, beautiful mountain areas, large lakes, a beautiful coastline, lots of culture and culinary delights. Those who want more or something different can go to the far north in Scandinavia, visit the Balkans or visit the Greek islands. The classic among novice travellers, or among Australians and Americans, is the 'Europe in one month' trip. 
  • The Cyclades (Greek islands), Barcelona, ​​Southern Spain, London, Paris and Berlin. 
  • Berlin, Lapland, French-Swiss Alps, Prague, London, Paris, Barcelona, ​​Corfu, Mykonos, Istanbul, Tuscany & Umbria, Rome, the lakes in Northern Italy, Croatian coast, Budapest, Avignon, Vienna..

Updates Europe

  • More about Europe, updates and contributions, see the link below.

 

     

    Europe Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

    Europe Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

    Content about Europe on WorldSupporter

    Europe: Updates & Travel

    Europe: Updates & Travel

    Travel in Europe?

    • Europe is still the number one holiday destination for most people living in Europe. Since all countries are relatively close to each other. France and Spain quickly emerge as top destinations. They are almost a model for everything Europe has to offer with rustic (camping) surroundings, beautiful mountain areas, large lakes, a beautiful coastline, lots of culture and culinary delights. Those who want more or something different can go to the far north in Scandinavia, visit the Balkans or visit the Greek islands. The classic among novice travellers, or among Australians and Americans, is the 'Europe in one month' trip. 
    • The Cyclades (Greek islands), Barcelona, ​​Southern Spain, London, Paris and Berlin. 
    • Berlin, Lapland, French-Swiss Alps, Prague, London, Paris, Barcelona, ​​Corfu, Mykonos, Istanbul, Tuscany & Umbria, Rome, the lakes in Northern Italy, Croatian coast, Budapest, Avignon, Vienna..

    Updates Europe

    • More about Europe, updates and contributions, see the link below.

     

       

      Image ACTIVITIES

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      ACTIVITIES
      placki - polish pancake

      Using the coarse side of a box grater, grate the potatoes and place them into a sieve or colander over a bowl. Using the finer side of the grater, grate the onion and add it to the potato. Using the back of a spoon, or even your hands, squeeze out any excess water/juice from the potatoes and onion....

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      Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes

      1. Boil the potatoes in a large pan of salted water until very soft. Drain and set to one side to cool down and steam dry. Once cool, mash until smooth.
      2. Put the cold mashed potato into a large bowl. Add the flour, egg and a good pinch of sa...

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      When traveling is your hobby and want to keep your personal stuff safe in the airplane, train, bus, boat or when u sleep in a hostel. Use a travelsafe! Find out what kind of travelsafe is usefull for you, click here!  

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      Activities abroad: home bundle

      Main content and contributions for activities abroad

      ,,,accommodations, adventure activities, courses, internships, jobs and volunteer projects

      ...to help another, travel with care, work together , learn

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      Activities abroad: home page

      Activities abroad: home page

      From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

        What social activities can you do abroad?

        • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.

        What work related activities can you do abroad?

        • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.

        What sports activities to do abroad?

        • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
        • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

        Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

          Activities Abroad: for work and intern abroad

          Activities Abroad: for work and intern abroad

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          1. What are the issues to bear in mind when emigrating?

          • Keep track of the emigration process; for example write down what to do and what you are going through in an emigration diary.
          • Make use of the media and guidebooks when researching possible destinations.
          • Get an i...

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          The world has embraced the concept of drones used for military purposes in the 21st century. It seemed like science fiction and how drones operated was shrouded in controversial secrecy. It did not take long before consumer drones were introduced in the market to replace the spy photography weapons ...

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          Europe: country bundles

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          ORGANIZATIONS
          Snowminds

          At Snowminds the entire team shares the same passion: Snow

          • Everyone on the team has done winter seasons, ranging from one winter season to more than nine.
          • Snowminds guides its ski and snowboard instructors from the trip to the ski pass, from the hotel to your contract.
          • At ...

          We Are Travellers

          We Are Travellers is een online travel magazine opgericht voor en door reizigers die een liefde hebben voor verre reizen en mooie bestemmingen

          Maarja Village

          In deze woongroep voor gehandicapte kinderen kun je als vrijwilliger helpen bij de lessen en het organiseren van kleine events.

          Internationale Bouworde (IBO)

          IBO-Nederland bemiddelt in vrijwilligerswerk en stages met name in Europa, maar ook daarbuiten. De stichting richtte zich in het verleden met name op bouwprojecten, maar houdt zich tegenwoordig ook bezig met sociale projecten. Vrijwilligers kunnen enkele dagen tot enkele weken meehelpen bij een proj...

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          SPOTLIGHT & FAVORITES

          SPOTLIGHT
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          1. What are the issues to bear in mind when emigrating?

          • Keep track of the emigration process; for example write down what to do and what you are going through in an emigration diary.
          • Make use of the media and guidebooks when researching possible destinations.
          • Get an i...

          FAVORITES
          placki - polish pancake

          Using the coarse side of a box grater, grate the potatoes and place them into a sieve or colander over a bowl. Using the finer side of the grater, grate the onion and add it to the potato. Using the back of a spoon, or even your hands, squeeze out any excess water/juice from the potatoes and onion....

          Image

          Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes

          1. Boil the potatoes in a large pan of salted water until very soft. Drain and set to one side to cool down and steam dry. Once cool, mash until smooth.
          2. Put the cold mashed potato into a large bowl. Add the flour, egg and a good pinch of sa...

          Image
          • TRANSNACIONALIDAD de un PROYECTO
          • TRANSNACIONALIDAD de un PROYECTO Para un buen proceso de nuestro proyecto consideramos que es importante communicar con otros socios, otros organizaciones, cualquier trabajo suelen del nuestro y que pueden apoyar nos en el desarrollo del proyecto...

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          Happiness quotes & statements from Europe

          Happiness quotes & statements from Europe

          Quotes & statements from all over Europe

          Are you lost? A caterpillar in your hand will show you the way - Happiness quotes & statements from Spain
          Give someone a bouquet of nine sorts of flowers and grasses. You will bring luck to the other person - Finland
          Save the cork of a champagne bottle on New Year’s Eve. You will have the whole year of luck - Happiness quotes & statements from Italy

          Save the cork of a champagne bottle on New Year’s Eve. You will have the whole year of luck - Happiness quotes & statements from Italy

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          Save the cork of a champagne bottle on New Year’s Eve. You will have the whole year of luck.

          When red underwear is gifted to you and you wear it on New Year’s Eve, it will bring luck the whole new year - Italy

          You may make a wish when you see four identical numbers on a digital clock - Happiness quotes & statements of Denmark
          You may make three wishes if you eat twelve grapes or twelve raisins at twelve o 'clock on New Year's eve. - Portugal
          If you sit between two people who have the same name, you may make a wish - Russia
          Happiness quotes and statements from around the world - Theme
          Recipes from Europe or with a local twist by WorldSupporters- Bundle

          Recipes from Europe or with a local twist by WorldSupporters- Bundle

          Recipes from Europe shared by WorldSupporters

          Recipe: Hungarian Street Food: Lángos

          Recipe: Hungarian Street Food: Lángos

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          This deep fried flatbread is a common street food in Hungary where it is served warm with sour cream and grated cheese, rubbed with garlic or garlic butter, or doused with garlic water.

          Instructions

          1. In a mug dissolve the salt in the water. In a bowl combine the sifted flour with the yeast. Add salty water to it and stir through (if it’s very sticky, add a little bit more flour). Work the dough with a wooden spoon or with your hands until the dough comes off the bowl and gets smooth. Leave the dough in the bowl, cover with a clean cloth and let it rise for 30-40 minutes or until it has doubled in bulk.
          2. Once it is rested, carefully tip out the dough onto a floured surface, stretch out into a square and cut out about 10 cm (3,93 inch) round shapes with a big glass (big cookie cutter also good). Stretch out each piece with your fingers into a rund shape with the centre being thinner than the edges. Let the pieces rest for another 30 minutes on the floured surface.
          3. In a saucepan heat sunflower oil. Place lángos into the hot oil, fry it on one side until golden brown then turn. Repeat with the remaining lángos dough.
          4. Serve while it’s hot. You can eat it simple or sprinkle with chopped garlic or douse with garlic water and top with grated cheese and sour cream.
          5. Enjoy!

          Ready In: 55 min.

          Ingredients:

          • 300 g all-purpose flour
          • 7 g dried (instant) yeast
          • 250 ml water
          • ½ teaspoon salt
          • sunflower oil for frying
          • toppings: sour cream, grated cheese, garlic
          Recipe: Polish potato pancakes

          Recipe: Polish potato pancakes

          placki - polish pancake

          Using the coarse side of a box grater, grate the potatoes and place them into a sieve or colander over a bowl. Using the finer side of the grater, grate the onion and add it to the potato. Using the back of a spoon, or even your hands, squeeze out any excess water/juice from the potatoes and onion. Discard the liquid, and then put the onions and potatoes into the bowl. Add the egg, two tablespoons of flour and season with sea salt and pepper, then stir everything together – the mixture should be quite thick.

          Heat a little vegetable oil in a large, flat frying pan. Drop three or four mounds of the mixture into hot oil, and flatten to make small pancakes.

          Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown. Transfer the pancakes to a plate lined with a paper towel. Repeat until all the potato mixture is used, adding a little fresh oil if necessary. You can serve the pancakes immediately, or keep them warm, wrapped in tin foil in a low oven.

          To make a quick mushroom sauce to serve with the pancakes, heat a little oil in a clean frying pan. Fry the chopped onion on a low heat for ten minutes until golden and soft. Add the mushrooms and cook for a further few minutes, until soft. Pour in the stock and simmer for one minute, then pour in the double cream and stir in the sour cream. Allow to bubble and simmer, then serve with the potato pancakes, along with some fresh dill and extra sour cream on the side.

          Smacznego!

          Ready In: 25 min.

          Ingredients:

          • Ingredients:
          • 6-8 medium-sized potatoes, peeled
          • 1 onion, peeled
          • 1 egg, beaten
          • 2 tablespoons plain flour
          • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
          • Oil for shallow frying
          • For the mushroom sauce:
          • 1 onion, peeled, finely chopped
          • 250g chestnut mushrooms
          • 125ml/½ cup vegetable stock
          • 125ml/½ cup double or heavy cream
          • 1 tablespoon sour cream
          • Extra sour cream to serve
          • Fresh dill to garnish
          Recipe: Sarmale Recipe - Romania

          Recipe: Sarmale Recipe - Romania

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          Recipe for Sarmale (Stuffed cabage rolls)

          Ingredients:

          • 800g of minced pork and beef (mixed well together)
          • 3 big onions
          • 2 tablespoons of oil (vegetable or sunflower)
          • 100g of rice
          • 150g of smoked meat (preferable pig but beef is also fine)
          • 100ml of tomato juice
          • 2 tablespoons of dill
          • 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
          • Thyme, salt and pepper
          • Pickled cabbage leaves

          How to prepare:

          1. Finely chop the onions and cook them until see trough with 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the tomato paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes, while stirring. Now add the onion and tomato paste mix to the minced meats, then add salt, pepper, thyme, the washed rice and the very fine chopped dill.

           

          1. Remove the leaves from the cabbage very carefully, now divide the leaf in two parts. Fill the leaves with the meat component and roll them until completely closed. Now fold the sides, of the roll, in so the sarmale is done. Now continue until all of the sarmale are rolled. Now moving to the pan you will cook the sarmale in, before putting in all the delicious rolls you just prepared we will have to make a bed for the rolls. We will do this by laying pickled cabbage leaves on the bottom of the pan or even chopped pickled cabbage can be used instead.

           

          1. Now lay your sarmale in the pan, do this by following a spiral form and make sure the sarmale are put together with not too much space in between them. After you finished one spiral row you can lay another bed of pickled cabbage on top before continuing with sarmale. When all the cabbage rolls are laying in the pan, Fill the pan with the tomato juice until it reaches the upper sarmale. You can ad additional pickled cabbage on top and put the smoked meat also dispersed in the pan. Now its time to turn on the fire and let your sarmale simmer for about 3 to 4 hours. Make sure to keep the lit

          Tips:

          • Optionally you can decide to make the sarmale in the oven in a cooking pot if you own one.
          • To be sure that the sarmale are cooked well you can taste some of the pickled cabbage.
          • You can use more rice and less meat if you desire, or you could even go for fully rice with chopped paprika and mushrooms to make the dish fully vegan.

          Ready In: 350 min.

          Romanian Traditions & Foods

          Romanian Traditions & Foods

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          Holidays & religion
          Romania is a country where most of the population is following the orthodox-christian religion. The orthodox religion is derived from Christianity but is much stricter in some ways like fasting without any animal product (milk, eggs, butter), church service takes about 4 hours on a Sunday instead of the hour and a half like in the catholic church. Romania knows multiple holidays that are comparable with the western holidays and some that are just celebrated by Romanians.

          New Years eve (Revelion)
          New years eve or Revelion as it is known in Romania is a very important holiday and is the first holiday celebrated in Romania. The celebration of new years eve dates back to 2000 years before Christ. During the celebration the Romanian people give each other symbolic gifts, like sweets and honey as a sign of peace, money and gold as a sign of welfare or a lantern for a year full of light.

          New Years day (Anul nou)
          In the cities New Years day is being celebrated by having people over at home or go out to bars, pubs and continue the party that New Years Eve offered. However the date of New Years day corresponds with the celebration of saint Vasile the great (Sfantul Vasile). In the countryside this is being celebrated on the first day of the year. On this day children will go out caroling a carol called Socrova. With the carol they wish everyone a rich, fruitfull year.

          Christmas (Craciun)
          During Christmas the Romanians prepare the Christmas tree with beautiful ornaments, just like in most countries Christmas day is spent with family and friends. The celebration is in name of Jesus Christ who was born on Christmas. In addition to the usual tree ornamenting, gifting to others and gathering of friends and family the Romanians also go door to door and carol for sweets, fruit or money. This is mostly being done by children who have been practicing weeks beforehand to impress the people.

          Martisor
          In Romania on the first of march there is a celebration named Martisor (literally translated; small march). The men give woman a gift consisting of a red and white thread or a more expensive version is a piece of jewellery with the red and white thread involved in the appearance. After the woman received the gift from a man they will wear this accessory until the end of March. This tradition symbolizes the beginning of spring and it is believed to bring strength and health during the coming year. Image

          Easter (Pastele)
          Easter is being celebrated on a different date than when the Christens and Catholics are celebrating the rise of Christ. Eastern is being celebrated after ‘the seven weeks of fasting’. During this time it is prohibited to eat any animal related food. This includes butter, milk, eggs and fish. During the last night of fasting everybody wakes up around midnight, washes themselves put on clean (usually new cloths) and heads towards the church. At the church there will be a ceremony where the priest will, with a cross and a lit candle in his hands, come out of the church followed by all the believers. The priest will then shout:
          ‘’Christos a inviat’’, meaning christ has risen, To which everybody will respond with: ‘’Adevarat a inviat’’, meaning he really has. The fire from the candle the priest brought out is being used to light everyones candles. After which everyone will return to there homes with the lit up candle by the church its flames. When arriving home instead of going to sleep, everybody sits down at the table and has the first meal in seven weeks that consists of animal products.

          Bear parade
          When winter is nearing its end there is another unique tradition exclusive to Romania known as the bear parade. During this period there will be a parade of dancing bears which stand for bringing luck . The participants dress themselves with real bear hides and go door-to-door while growling and accompanied by percussion and singing to wear off all the evil.Image

           

          Romanian traditional foods
          Cozonac
          This type of cake has been made for years and is a very old tradition in Romania. It is being said that the Cozonac is originated from ancient Egypt and then taken over by the Greek. Eventually it found its way to Romania. It is being made for special occasions like Christmas or easter but its also being enjoyed on a wedding day. Its made by using flower, eggs, milk, butter, salt and sugar. Optional ingredients that are used quite often are: resins, orange or lemon zest, walnuts, vanilla or rum extract, cocoa powder and poppy seeds.

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          Mamaliga
          Mamaliga is a often made supplementary dish by Romanians. The dish consists of a type of corn porridge that is eaten with some type of meat (usually pig) and cheese mixed with yoghurt. Mamaliga was is known to be a replacement for bread for people who could not afford bread. During the passing of time it changed to a nostalgic food for many Romanians and is being eaten on the regular by all Romanians.

          Mici (Mititei)
          Mici are meat rolls usually consisting of a mix from pig-, cow- and chicken meat. This is a tradition Romanian dish that is made on a barbeque and is mostly eaten with a piece of bead and some mustard.

          Sarmale
          Sarmale is arguably the most iconic Romanian dish. The dish can be described as cabbage rolls stuffed with different types of meat or rice. In addition to the meat or the rice there are herbs added, onions and in some cases traditional (smoked) bacon (usually with rice). The dish is often served with mamaliga (corn porridge) and yoghurt to bring down the intensity of the overpowering flavour given by the sarmale. The dish is being eaten on all the holidays and on wedding days. Sarmale is a delicious dish especially when it is home cooked with the right ingredients. Many Romanians prepare for the winter by pickling cabbages so it can be used during the winter to make Sarmale.

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          Recipe: Scotch Eggs

          Recipe: Scotch Eggs

          Scotch Egg

          Hello everyone,

          On my trip to great England i had the one of the best pub foods. Pub food is fast easy, simple and doesn't require to much effort. Today i wan't to share my version of scotch eggs, i've been making them since i left England and the are delicious.

          Prep Time: 10 mins

          Cook time: 15 mins

          Instructions

          1. Boil all your eggs for 2-4 mins (Depening on the heat). You wan't the eggs to be cooked on the outside and liquid in the center (Yellow). Once you're eggs are done take them out and pout cold water over them for 20 seconds. This is to stop the egg from cooking any further.

          2. Preheat your deep fryer to 350.

          3. Meanwhile wrap your hard boiled eggs in your pork sausage.

          4. In 3 separate bowls add your eggs, flour and bread crumbs,

          5. Dredge your wrapped eggs first into the flour, then eggs then bread crumbs.

          6. Fry 2 at a time in deep fryer for about 5-6 minutes or until internal temperature is 160.

          7. Remove cooked eggs and serve

          8. Serve with honey mustard or your favorite dipping sauce (Mayo, Ketchup, BBQ hot sauce) or make ur own.

          Ready In: 20 min.

          Ingredients:

          • 1 kilo of pork sausage or any other sausage type.
          • 1/2 cup flour
          • 2 eggs beaten
          • 4 soft boiled eggs peeled

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