Chickens and Plants in Harmony: A Guide to Garden Coexistence

Chickens and plants can live together happily in your garden. When done right, chickens and plants can help each other. By adding chickens to your garden correctly, it can make the soil healthier. Chickens can also reduce bugs and diseases that hurt plants. You may get a bigger harvest of vegetables too.

In this blog post, we will talk about the good things chickens do in the garden. We will also provide a guide for chickens and plants living peacefully together.

Chickens can cause problems for plants if not taken care of properly. But the environmentally friendly gardening with chickens method discussed here balances chickens and plants. By carefully planning your chicken area layout and choosing the right chicken breeds, you can enjoy gardening with chickens. You can also protect your vegetables and flowers. With some easy steps and plant choices good for chickens, you can create a lasting gardening together system.

Planning Your Garden Layout for Chickens and Plants

When setting up your garden space, think about separating where chickens go from where plants grow. It’s best to have one area for chickens to freely run that’s away from main veggie beds. This keeps plants safe while letting chickens roam freely.

In the chicken area, plant things they like to eat like clover grass. Put up a fence here chickens can’t escape from, but you can easily get through. Movable fences work well.

For vegetable beds, use fences buried underground or raised beds. This stops chickens from scratching or digging. Leave empty space around beds planted with shrubs and flowers chickens ignore.

You can also use moving chicken houses called “chicken tractors.” Place them in parts of the yard each day. This expands chicken space while crops get time to regrow before chickens return.

With a thought-out plan, you can take care of chickens and plants together in your garden peacefully.

Choosing Chicken Breeds That Won’t Damage Your Plants

Not all chickens are suitable for freely roaming gardens. Gentler breeds that don’t scratch and peck as much are best. Good options are French Copper Marans, Sicilian Buttercups, and Welsummers. They tend to be calmer chickens.

Avoid aggressive breeds like Americans that often dig and scratch a lot. Store-bought hybrids may also be hard to keep away from plants.

For your garden, choose calm breeds that like eating plants, not digging them up. Watch the young chicks to pick ones less likely to cause trouble later. Choosing the right types helps protect your plants from damage.

Creating Chicken-Friendly Zones in Your Garden

Designate part of your garden as a chicken grazing area filled with deliberate plantings appealing to chickens’ taste. Include chicken-friendly plants like:

  • Clovers (provides protein and minerals)
  • Grasses
  • Dandelions
  • Blackberries and raspberries (high in vitamins)
  • Vegetative prunings from the garden

Pile fallen leaves, chopped brush, or unwanted weeds in these zones for natural scratching and foraging material. Chickens will be more contained when they have ready access to a diverse, interesting environment in your garden.

How to Protect Your Plants from Chicken Damage

A few simple precautions go a long way in shielding valuable plants from chicken interference:

  • Fence off seedlings, small vegetable beds, and herbs with netting buried deep. This prevents scratching.
  • Cover young plants with old pantyhose or stockings to stop pecking.
  • Wrap spirals of fencing around tree bark to stop scratching.
  • Put objects like hot sauce or float vales that chickens learn to avoid around fragile plants.
  • Use natural scents like fox urine to keep chickens away from areas.
  • Cover garden beds with mulch-like wood chips or straw. Chickens don’t like scratching this.
  • With barriers and distractions, you can allow chickens free range without damage. Guiding their behavior is key to a peaceful garden.

Using Chicken Manure as Fertilizer for Your Garden

Don’t think of chicken poop as a chore – it’s great natural fertilizer! Fresh poop is too strong and can burn plants.

It’s best to collect poop from coops regularly. Then compost it for 3-6 months to mellow it out before using.

Spread the aged poop around plants and mix it into the top few inches of soil. This boosts nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

One chicken makes enough fertilizer each year for 25 square feet of garden space. With careful handling, poop is a wonderful natural way to help soil.

Companion Planting with Chickens: Maximizing Plant Health and Yield

The practice of companion planting with chickens leverages poultry’s natural behavior to support plant growth. Chickens scratching and pecking in garden beds can be redirected from damaging crops to boosting them through strategic plant combinations.

Some beneficial pairings include:

  • Interspersing chicken-friendly plants like Dutch white clover among vegetables. Chickens will forage the clover, aerating the soil and leaving behind natural fertilizer to benefit veggies.
  • They are planting aromatic herbs disliked by pests near susceptible crops. As chickens disturb the soil, released herb scents will naturally repel detrimental bugs.
  • Growing legumes fixing nitrogen in the soil. This nourishes plants while fulfilling chickens’ pecking instinct, improving soil fertility.

Through deliberate companion planting, you can allow chickens to help manage pests, cycle nutrients and cultivate healthy soil – maximizing garden yield with poultry presence. It’s a win-win form of integrated pest management.

Incorporating Chicken Tractors into Your Garden Design

Chicken tractors can help gardens with less space or wanting to move chickens around. These portable coops on wheels let you fence chickens in different yard areas safely.

To use tractors, divide your garden with fences into sections. Move the coops each day to fresh spots. This mimics how chickens naturally browse while giving grazed plants time to regrow for the next day.

Look for sturdy tractors made for your flock size that are easy to push around. Add nests, perches automatic feeders, and water inside. The top should stop chickens from flying away but let you reach eggs.

With tractors, you fully control chickens’ garden impact. Moving them prevents over-browsing. But chickens still enrich the soil by pecking within your place in a balanced way.

Harvesting Eggs and Vegetables from Your Chicken-Enhanced Garden

The reward of your integrated garden effort is fresh eggs and produce! With diligent plant choices, your chicken-enhanced garden allows dual feeding chickens with garden produce and harvesting from chicken efforts.

Collect eggs regularly, being careful not to disturb setting hens. Store in the coolest part of your kitchen for 2-4 weeks of freshness.

Some crops chickens aid include:

  • Pest-resistant varieties grown among foraging areas benefit from pest control
  • Bugs and slugs are drawn to clover patches rather than vegetables
  • Deep soil processing from scratching improves the yield and nutrition of heavy feeders like potatoes
  • Fertilized areas spreading manure witness bounties of tomatoes, squash, and more

With each passing season, your garden will flourish thanks to symbiotic gardening tips with poultry. Maximizing space through rotational grazing optimizes benefits for all. Enjoy the abundance!

Troubleshooting Common Issues in a Chicken and Plant Coexistence Garden

Even the best-laid plans can encounter hiccups when chickens and plants coexist. Here are some solutions:

  • Escaped chickens – Inspect fencing for breaches, and reinforce with additional buried fencing or landscaping barriers if needed.
  • Over-browsing – Increase forage options to redirect pecking or limit chicken access areas using movable fencing.
  • Predators entering coops – Inspect coops for entry points and reinforce with smaller wire mesh if holes are discovered.
  • Increased disease risk – Remove food and water at night when not in use and clean coops regularly to reduce pathogen spread risk.
  • Squabbles in flock – Check chicken densities and types are appropriate together. Separate aggressive individuals if fighting occurs.
  • Soil compaction – Allow areas to rest by chickens by rotating grazing zones and leaving paths between beds ungrazed.

With open-minded problem-solving and adaptability, you can achieve a balanced garden and poultry care. By making small adjustments over time, your chickens and plants can thrive together through sustainable garden coexistence.

For More Information – Phoebe <phoebe@penandinkmail.com>

Is Travelling to Morocco Safe?

Yes it definately is ... A few words from my Travel Partners in Morocco

The earthquake that hit Morocco in early September 2023 primarily affected the Atlas Mountains region, which is located an hour and a half outside of Marrakech.

There have not been damages sustained in other areas outside of these regions, and all major destinations are still fully operational and open for travelers.

With the exception of a couple of properties in the Atlas Mountains, all of the other properties, and all of our providers for activities, transportation, guiding services, etc. are still open and operating as usual.

While we are extending our support and resources to all of those impacted by the earthquake, we are also well aware that tourism is an essential part of Morocco’s economy in general, and the affected regions in particular.

Given what our team on the ground has seen firsthand, and what our partners around the country have conveyed to us, our consensus is that, in short, coming to Morocco is the best way to help the country and its people.

We will also continue to share information about ongoing donation drives, fundraisers, and other ways to help support the impacted communities.

 

While we completely understand concerns regarding the situation in the Middle East, we do not have any concerns at this time about any political unrest that would impact the delivery of client trips in Morocco.

Our country has a long and rich history of welcoming all religions and communities of different religious denominations have coexisted peacefully for many centuries here.

Historically, Morocco has always acted as a go-between in the Israeli Palestinian conflict, and we are hoping for a quick and peaceful resolution of the most recent crisis.

Additionally, Morocco is not located in the Middle East — the country is geographically closer to Europe than anywhere else, and a flight to New York is closer than a flight to Israel.

The local authorities are monitoring the situation closely and we are in constant contact with them to ensure that all the guests traveling with us at the moment and the ones arriving in the next few days and weeks are safe.

Our travelers’ safety is our utmost priority and something we would never risk to compromise.

5 Reasons Why Travelling Alone at 50 Is No Fun

Traveling alone at 50 can sometimes lack the excitement and fulfillment that comes with shared experiences. At this stage in life, many individuals crave companionship, camaraderie, and the opportunity to create memories with loved ones.

Traveling solo may also pose challenges.  Safety concerns, navigating unfamiliar environments alone, and limited social interactions.

Additionally, exploring new destinations without someone to share the journey with can feel isolating and less enriching.  There is nothing better than having a drink at the end of a wonderful day and reflecting upon experiences and engaging in meaningful conversations.

Traveling alone at 50 may also lack the spontaneity and shared decision-making that comes with traveling in the company of others.

While solo travel can be empowering and introspective, it may not always fulfill the desire for shared adventures and meaningful connections that many individuals seek at this stage in life.

 

  1. Limited Shared Experiences: Traveling alone means fewer opportunities to share experiences and create memories with others. The joy of discovering a new place is often heightened when you have someone to share it with.

 

     2. Lack of Social Interaction: Solo travel can lead to isolation, as there may be moments when you wish to discuss your experiences, seek opinions, or simply enjoy a conversation. Without companions, these social interactions can be limited.

 

3. Safety Concerns: Navigating unfamiliar places alone can raise safety concerns. Having a travel companion provides an extra layer of security, making it more reassuring to explore new environments, especially during nighttime or in less crowded areas.

 

4.  Dining Solo: Dining alone can be less enjoyable for some people. Sharing meals with others is often a social and cultural experience, and solo travelers may miss out on the pleasure of trying local dishes together and exchanging culinary discoveries.

 

5.  Solo Decision-Making: While solo travel offers the freedom to make all decisions independently, it can also be mentally exhausting to bear the entire responsibility of planning, navigating, and problem-solving without the input or assistance of a travel companion.

Chef Dominique Guided Tours

Is Moroccan Food Just Cous Cous and Tagine?

Is Moroccan Food Just Cous Cous and Tagine?

Moroccan cuisine is a delightful tapestry of flavours, blending influences from Arab, Berber, and Mediterranean culinary traditions. Basically its cuisine is a tantalizing blend of vibrant flavours, aromatic spices, and diverse influences that reflect the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. Consequently at the core of Moroccan cooking is a medley of spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon, creating a sensory journey with each dish.

Here are some of the dishes you can taste in Morocco that celebrate more than the Moroccan Tagine and cous cous. 

1. Pastilla: A savory and sweet pastry filled with layers of flaky dough, pigeon or chicken, almonds, and dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon.

2. Harira: A traditional Moroccan soup, especially enjoyed during Ramadan. It typically contains tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and a mix of herbs and spices.

3. Bastilla: A unique pie made with thin layers of dough, stuffed with a mixture of pigeon or chicken, almonds, eggs, and spices.

4. Mechoui: Roasted lamb or sheep, often slow-cooked until tender and infused with a rich blend of spices.

5. Zaalouk: A flavorful eggplant and tomato dip, showcases the mastery of spices like cumin and coriander. 

6. Mint Tea: A popular and refreshing beverage, Moroccan mint tea is a sweet and aromatic green tea infused with fresh mint leaves.

7. Msemen: A type of square-shaped, layered flatbread that’s pan-fried and commonly enjoyed for breakfast or with tea.

8. Khubz: Moroccan bread, usually round and flat, served with almost every meal.

9. Moroccan Sweets: End your meal with delightful desserts like Baklava, Chebakia (sesame-coated pastries), or Ghriba (nutty cookies).


 Herbs like mint and coriander add a refreshing touch, while preserved lemons and olives contribute a unique tanginess. Moroccan cuisine is a captivating symphony of flavors, inviting diners to savor the intricate harmony of tastes and textures.

Moroccan cuisine embraces a vibrant array of vegetable dishes that elevate plant-based fare to a level of culinary artistry. One standout is the iconic Moroccan salad, a refreshing medley of tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, often dressed with olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Other vegetable celebrations of Moroccan cuisine include

Hlalem: A hearty vegetable soup that typically includes lentils, chickpeas, carrots, and a variety of spices. It’s a wholesome and comforting dish, perfect for colder days.

Taktouka: A simple yet tasty salad made with roasted and peeled green peppers and tomatoes. It’s seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and cumin, creating a refreshing side dish.

Carrot and Orange Salad: This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of carrots and oranges with the earthiness of cumin and the freshness of mint. It’s a colorful and flavorful addition to any meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers (Mahshi Batata): Bell peppers are filled with a mixture of spiced rice, lentils, and sometimes ground meat. The stuffed peppers are then simmered in a tomato-based sauce until tender.

These vegetable dishes showcase the diversity and creativity of Moroccan cuisine, proving that meatless options can be just as delicious and satisfying.

Looking for your own Moroccan Adventure? 

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through Morocco, where ancient traditions dance with vibrant landscapes, inviting you to savor the magic of the Sahara, explore bustling souks, and lose yourself in the rich tapestry of a timeless culture. 

Join one of my Morocco Food Tours Travelling in 2024 and 2025. Click here for details

Minced Beef Safety: Tips for Handling and Storing Safely

Introduction

When considering ground beef, prioritizing safety remains of utmost importance. It is crucial to adhere to appropriate protocols for handling and storing to prevent the risk of foodborne ailments. Within this piece, we shall furnish you with indispensable guidance on the secure management and storage of ground beef, guaranteeing the safety and peace of mind in your culinary endeavors. Whether you are making meat-based ground beef recipes or vegetarian alternatives, these tips will help you enjoy your dishes without any worries.

 

1. Safe Purchase and Transportation

Choosing Fresh Ground Beef

Master the art of choosing fresh ground beef at the supermarket by verifying packaging dates, ensuring adequate refrigeration, and steering clear of packages that display signs of damage or leakage.

Safe Transportation

Appreciate the significance of maintaining the refrigeration of ground beef during transit, particularly when dealing with warmer climates or extended travel distances.

2. Proper Storage

Refrigerator Storage

Uncover the suggested refrigeration temperature for ground beef and acquire insights into optimal meat packaging techniques to thwart cross-contamination.

Freezer Storage

Understand the proper methodology for storing ground beef in the freezer, encompassing accurate packaging methods and labeling for effortless recognition.

 

3. Safe Handling

Thawing Ground Beef

Gain knowledge about safer approaches to defrost ground beef, including utilizing the refrigerator, cold water baths, or the microwave, to prevent bacterial proliferation.

Preventing Cross-Contamination

Acquire an understanding of the significance of maintaining proper hygiene protocols, such as hand washing and cleaning utensils and cutting boards after coming into contact with raw ground beef, as a preventive measure against bacterial transmission.

4. Cooking Ground Beef

Safe Internal Temperatures

Understand the advised internal cooking temperatures for ground beef to guarantee its safe preparation, free from potentially harmful bacteria.

Ground Beef Storage After Cooking

Discover the correct procedures for storing cooked ground beef to preserve its safety and quality, encompassing refrigeration and freezing techniques.

Conclusion

 

By following these tips for safe handling and storage of ground beef, you can greatly reduce your risk of foodborne illness. Make sure to purchase fresh ground beef, keep it at the right temperature, handle it properly, and cook to the right internal temperature. These tips will keep you and your loved ones safe while enjoying delicious ground beef dishes.

What Should You Wear on a Food Tour?

Learning about a locale through the flavours of its cuisine can add a sublime texture to your cultural exploration. If you have been to Europe, for example, you’ll probably remember the grandeur of its cathedrals and palaces—but you’d also recall the those delicious meals which made you say “Wow”. Trips to golden Qatar can be filled with the warmth of people’s hospitality but also the slow-cooked, aromatic majboos they adore. 

This magic can easily be  whitewashed if the weather falls cold and you didnt bring any warm clothing, you have sore uncomfortable feet, and you have to keep looking for a laundry service. Packing is almost as important as the trip itself , people often ask me “What Should You Wear on a Food Tour”?  Here are a few suggestions…

That’s why you should consider booking a food tour on your next holiday. The best ones grant you a comprehensive plan filled with the best food and entertainment of the location, plus a friendly tour guide that can take you through the in-depth history of a food site.

A Dominique Rizzo food tour can offer all that and more, as the resident guide has personally visited and designed the experiences she offers.

But what should you wear on these delectable food trips? When working through the delicious itinerary, you will, in a nutshell, want to be safe, snug, and stylish. The following is an overview of how to curate a great food tour outfit.

High-quality sunglasses

Your shades are for more than when you munch on arancini in sunny Sicily or eat shaved ice at a Hawaiian beach.

You’ll also need to shield your eyes from harmful UV rays that can cause eye illnesses or dizzying artificial light that can trigger headaches—both of which take away from the wonders of your food tour experience.

Stellar sunglasses brands like Oakley, Ray-Ban, and Puma address those issues. You’ll want to consider polarised sunglasses in particular, as they offer better visual clarity and additional protection from sun glare while topping off your look. While Ray-Ban and Puma carry these, you can try Oakley for its patented PRIZM lens technology that enhances colour, contrast, and detail—so you can see your food in all its mouthwatering glory whenever you dine al fresco.

Versatile layering

 

Bringing along an extra layer is good practice so the chill doesn’t mar your experience.

Dress depending on the local weather, though. Sampling the sour sinigang of the tropical Philippines? Consider taking a simple shawl or an Outdoor Research rain jacket for monsoon season.

Excited to try hot Kjøttkaker meatballs in freezing-cold Norway? Don’t forget to pack a toasty Arc’teryx Patera winter parka. If you want complete versatility—for example, if you’re willing to brave Alaska’s erratic weather patterns for a bite of their smoked salmon—consider the Flexwarm jacket, which can adjust the jacket to your ideal temperature.

Stretchy pants

What to wear for your bottoms has long been a dilemma for food tourists. On the one hand, you want to avoid feeling stuffed in your denim jeans midway through eating Indonesia’s succulent babi guling.

On the other hand, wearing form-fitting tights can seem disrespectful to more conservative food site locations, such as when sharing a Nihari meal with Pakistani locals. A great middle ground is flared leggings, also known as jazz pants.

Initially popular in the ’90s, these bottoms are experiencing a resurgence in popularity thanks to celebrity praise from the likes of Rihanna, Hailey Bieber, and Emily Ratajkowski and because they fill the need for a comfortable but relatively polished pair of pants. Brands like Nike and Glassons have their iterations, but you can get a great pair at Kmart.

Many customers attest to its butter-soft fabric and flexible, flattering cut—perfect to put on when you’re expecting to eat more than a few food portions.

 

Comfortable shoes

The promise of luxuriant fare doesn’t mean you’ll stay sedentary on your food tour. These experiences can double as walking tours, with your guide taking you through streets and sites to discover the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants and food stalls.

As such, you’ll want comfortable shoes. A pair of Hedgehog Fastpack Gore-Tex shoes from North Face is a great choice—they’re walking runners with cushioned Vibram soles, and thanks to their Gore-Tex technology, they’re weatherproof. You’ll be able to stomp through even the thick snowfall of Buffalo, New York, to get to their spicy wings.

You don’t want anything to detract from your delicious meals during a food tour, especially not your clothes. Remember to wear these essentials on your next food adventure.

 

*** Top Tip

Pack light – you will regret packing too much when you realise you can’t fit in any of your shopping while overseas

 

Historical Sicily - Dominique Rizzo

The Best of Sicily – Why Sicily Offers More Than Most Small Islands

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a captivating destination that offers a wealth of experiences and attractions. While it may be classified as a small island in terms of geographical size, Sicily boasts an impressive array of historical, cultural, natural, and culinary treasures. Here are some reasons why Sicily stands out and offers more than most small islands

Sicilian food is insanely good.

I’m sure this is why I fell in love with Sicily even at an early age, but I know for a fact that every time I sit down and had yet another perfect meal, I knew there was something special about this island. Between the expertly prepared restaurant meals, and the fresh and authentic street food, you’ll never go hungry in Sicily.

While there’s a lot of crossover between Italian and Sicilian food, Sicilian dishes have some unique elements that set them apart. Due to Sicily’s geographical location at the southernmost tip of Italy, it has historically seen a lot of Mediterranean, Arab and North African influences. Because of this, in Sicilian cuisine you’ll find a lot of seafood, pistachios, fresh produce and more varied spices than you might in mainland Italian food.

That being said, Sicilian cuisine still quite similar to Italian food, so don’t feel like you’ll be out of your depth when looking at a menu! Think of it as similar, but different. Sicily is a very rich and diverse culture, so there isn’t one particular food that is able to be identified as the most famous Sicilian food. However, I have a few that I want to recommend very highlyGranita, Arancini, Panelle, Pasta alla Norma, Pasta con Le Sarde and  Cannoli are just a few of the top Sicilian foods to try and which really encapsulate  encapsulate the food that Sicily is famous for—and for good reason. They’re life changing.

The Aeolian Islands

If you’re wanting to soak up the sun and have an ideal beach holiday, Sicily can absolutely deliver for you.

Being an island, Sicily obviously has endless coastline, and there are beautiful, well kept beaches on basically every part of the coast!

Sicily surrounded on all sides by three different sea and the water temperature is ideal during the high season. One of the best parts about Sicily, though, is that being located just about as far south in Europe as it is possible to get, the realistic swimming season is much longer than in other parts of Europe. The water begins warming up a the end of April or May, and you can realistically expect to be able to take a dip well into November.

The endless opportunities for beach space means that you can have the exact kind of beach holiday you want. Whether you’re looking for a crowded party beach, a more secluded nature reserve, a luxurious beach club, or something family friendly—Sicily has something for you.

I have travelled so many times to the little islands around the coast of Sicily and they don’t disappoint, in fact they are a must to tag onto your Sicilian holiday and Sicily has made it very easy to travel to them all.  You can even do day trips out to these little paradises if you want!  Click here for details on my Aeolian Islands Tour 2024

Cefalù and Mondello are the most famous options on the northwest side of the Island, while Isola Bella, Calamosche and Portopalo di Capo Passero are the best options for the east side. There’s also the stunning and famous Scala dei Turchi, which is a bit out of the way of a lot of other things, but if you’ll be near the Valley of the Temples, is absolutely worth it.

Wine lovers, this one’s for you!

Sicily is a wine lovers’ paradise (which shouldn’t be a huge shock to anyone, given that it’s a part of Italy), but Sicily boasts so many of its own incredible wines.

Probably the two most well known and popular Sicilian wines are Marsala and Nero d’Avola – both of which are excellent. We also fell in love with Cerasuolo di Vittoria the last time we were in Sicily.

However, there’s actually a huge variety of Sicilian wines, including FrappatoZibibboCataratto Bianco, and even the very widely known (but not usually from Sicily!) Chardonnay.

Another great thing to do in Sicily is a wine tasting, so you can be sure to really get a wide sampling. The beauty of this is that almost all regions of Sicily produce wine, so you’ll find excellent tours whether you plan to visit the foothill vineyards of Mt. Etna, the stunning Val di Noto wineries (near Syracuse, Modica and Ragusa), the famed Marsala wine region, or the more off-the-beaten-track vineyards of the north coast and Madonie Park. Actually, you can even sample a range of Sicilian wines and cheeses without leaving Palermo

Dominique Rizzo _ Italy Tour

Now, most of us associate Greek ruins with, well, Greece of course. However, you can find a ton of ancient Greek history all over Sicily!

The Valley of the Temples site is probably the most famous in Sicily, and is one of the world’s best-preserved Greek temples outside of Greece. I’ve been to Athens, and I have been to The Valley of the Temples while in Sicily, and I have to say that it was completely on par with the things I saw in Greece, and in some ways a bit cooler because way less people come to see it!

There’s also Segesta, which is easiest to visit if you’ll be in and around Palermo—another really impressive ancient city with a well-preserved temple, and Selinunte, which has the added bonus of being right on the coast, which makes for quite the view.

Last but not least, there are a number of Greek theatres across Sicily, the most famous probably being in Taormina, but there are similar experiences in Syracuse and Palazzolo Acreide, to name a few!

If you want to dip your toes into some ancient history, Sicily is the perfect destination

Sicily really is the type of place to leave you in awe no matter where you look.

The east coast is an unbelievable display of baroque architecture, from Catania, to Ortigia, to Noto, there is no shortage of opulent and impressive baroque structures to marvel at.

The reason for such an abundance of baroque buildings on the east coast is a devastating earthquake in the late 1600s, which led to most of the east needing to be rebuilt from the ground up! Today, it’s an impressive and unique aesthetic that makes for the perfect backdrop to any vacation.

On the other hand, cities like Palermo showcase the many phases of domination that Sicily has experienced, and you’ll see Arab, Norman and Spanish influence all in one city.

I feel like architecture is really taken for granted when considering a vacation, but personally, I love nothing more than looking at some pretty buildings while sipping on an aperol spritz in the late afternoon, and Sicily delivers this dream ten-fold.

Like so many places in the Mediterranean, Sicilian culture is a breath of fresh air while on vacation.

Stereotypically, Mediterranean culture emphasizes hospitality, neighbourliness, relaxation, and connection—and in my experience, Sicily embodies these all perfectly.

Everyone we have come across in Sicily is so unbelievably friendly and helpful, which totally adds to the already amazing experiences we’ve had there. Even when it has been difficult to communicate due to language barriers (which are very real in Sicily!) I’ve found people to be patient and so kind while I struggle through my Italian and even harder… the Sicilian dialect.

Not only that, but the entire laid back atmosphere of Sicily is just ideal for a vacation. While it can be nice to fit a ton of things into your trip, sometimes it’s optimal to spend a day doing nothing but sitting at a cafe with a book, and Sicily makes that doable and acceptable.

The culture in Sicily is unmatched, and is definitely a top answer to the question “Why visit Sicily?”

Sicily is obviously mostly known as a summer destination, and with good reason—considering the beautiful sun and endless coast, but one amazing perk of Sicily is that the weather is never truly bad.

Even in the worst parts of the year, the average temperatures are around 53 F / 12 C, which is certainly not ideal for a beach vacation, but hardly too cold to still have a nice time traveling!

In the summer on average you’ll see temperatures up to  83 F / 28 C give or take, and I’ll be honest the heat can be brutal. But the coast and pristine sea water make it all worth it.

Because there’s really never a bad time to visit, why visit Sicily only in the summer? I went to Sicily this past March, and had a really lovely time. Honestly in some ways it was a nicer trip than when I went in August last year. I love the versatility that the weather lends to your planning, and it definitely makes for a great reason to visit Sicily.

No matter what kind of traveler you are or what kind of vacation you’re after, there’s something in Sicily for you.

If you’re going for the backpacking, city-break traveler vibe, Palermo and Catania have the perfect alternative vibes for you.  If you’re looking for adventure and nature, Mount Etna and the surrounding park is perfect, as are all of the ruins you can find across the island.

If you want to explore small towns and enjoy the charms off the beaten path, Savoca, Noto, Ortigia and Cefalu are ready and waiting.  If you want to sit on the beach and not move until it’s time to fly home, you have endless coastline to choose from.

And if you’re a foodie then it’s genuinely not possible for you to be disappointed.  Even the fussiest traveler can find their perfect vacation experience in Sicily.

 

Want to learn more about this stunning and evocative Island of Sicily?

Join me on tour in 2024 travelling in June and September

 

Sicily your perfect holiday - Dominique Rizzo

5 Reasons Sicily Should Be Your Next Destination for 2024

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a captivating destination that should be at the top of any traveler’s list.

With its rich history, stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering cuisine, Sicily offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit.  Let me take you on a virtual journey to discover why Sicily is a must-visit destination.

1. Sicily boasts a history that spans over thousands of years, making it a treasure trove of archaeological wonders.

From ancient Greek temples in Agrigento and Segesta to the remarkably preserved Roman mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale, Sicily is a living museum of civilizations past. The island’s strategic location in the heart of the Mediterranean has attracted numerous conquerors throughout history, resulting in a diverse cultural heritage that is visible in its architecture, art, and traditions.

2. Beyond its historical significance, Sicily’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring.

The island is blessed with breathtaking landscapes that range from picturesque coastal villages to rugged mountain ranges. The majestic Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, dominates the eastern skyline, offering a thrilling backdrop for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. The azure waters that surround the island provide excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with idyllic beaches such as San Vito Lo Capo and Taormina attracting sunseekers from around the world.

3. Sicily’s unique culture is deeply rooted in its Mediterranean heritage and is celebrated through its vibrant festivals, lively markets, and warm-hearted people.

The island’s cities, such as Palermo, Catania, and Syracuse, showcase a blend of architectural styles, reflecting the influences of the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish. Strolling through the narrow streets of these cities, you’ll encounter bustling markets, ornate cathedrals, and charming piazzas that come alive with the lively spirit of the locals.

4. No visit to Sicily would be complete without indulging in its gastronomic delights.

Sicilian cuisine is renowned for its robust flavours and fresh ingredients, showcasing the island’s fertile land and bountiful sea. From arancini (stuffed rice balls) and pasta alla Norma to cannoli and granita, each bite tells a story of Sicily’s culinary heritage. Exploring local markets and trattorias is a must to experience the authentic flavours of Sicilian cuisine.

Arancini

5. The warmth and hospitality of the Sicilian people leave a lasting impression on visitors.

They take great pride in their traditions and are eager to share their love for their island with travellers. Whether it’s striking up a conversation with a local shopkeeper, participating in a village festival, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along the coast, the genuine warmth and friendliness of the Sicilians make every moment in Sicily unforgettable.

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The 15 Must Try Traditional Dishes From Puglia

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Puglia, known for its rich culinary heritage, offers a variety of traditional dishes that highlight the region’s fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Here are some popular traditional dishes in Puglia:

1. Orecchiette

(Most Famous Puglia Food to Try)

This delicious and traditional pasta is one of the most popular foods in Puglia and is probably the region’s most famous dish. A small pasta made simply of durum wheat flour and water and is moulded by hand into a distinctive ‘ear’ shape which gives it its name (“orecchio“, the word for “ear” in Italian).

The history of orecchiette goes back centuries and the dish has been an important part of Puglian cuisine for generations.

In the narrow alleyways of Bari’s old town (Bari Vecchia), you can watch women making orecchiette by hand on wooden tables – it’s one of the most iconic things to see in the city.

Orecchiette is usually served with a simple sauce and vegetables, though there are many variations. You can find orecchiette on the menu of most restaurants in Puglia.

One of Puglias most popular and noted variations of this pasta is Orecchiette con le Cime di Rapa:  This dish combines orecchiette pasta with cime di rapa, also known as broccoli rabe. The sauce is made from sautéed broccoli rabe, garlic, chili flakes, and lots of olive oil. It’s a classic and beloved Puglian dish.

2. Polpette di Ricotta

These delicious cheese and herb balls are typical Puglian snacks. They’re made from stale bread, ricotta, garlic, parsley, and grated parmesan, and are deep-fried until they’re golden brown.

Polpette di ricotta is usually served as an antipasto or starter but can also be enjoyed on its own. Good ones aren’t too heavy but are incredibly flavorful.

As well as the ricotta variety, polpette comes in various other forms, including ones containing meat, vegetables, and/or fish. Sometimes they’re served by themselves, or other times in a rich sauce, where they take on the consistency of dumplings.

Polpette can be found on menus throughout Puglia. 

 

3. Focaccia Barese

This traditional Puglian bread originally comes from the city of Bari and is usually served as an appetizer, paired excellently with local olive oil. It’s made of a simple dough that’s seasoned generously with rosemary and salt, then topped with tomatoes, onions, and olives.

The result is incredible. Good focaccia barese is rich yet light, crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and never too oily. 

 

4. Taralli

Taralli comes in many shapes, sizes, and flavors, but the traditional variety from Puglia is typically made with flour, white wine, olive oil, and salt.

They’re crunchy rings of dough that have been boiled before baking – this gives them an extra special texture which makes them really addictive!

Traditionally they are not spiced or flavoured but now you can find them with all sorts of additional flavours such as  either chili or fennel seeds, rosemary and even sweet combinations. They pair perfectly with wine or an ice-cold beer.

Taralli is a great snack to enjoy while you’re out exploring or during a picnic lunch. 

You can buy bags of taralli in virtually every shop and supermarket in Puglia for a couple of euros, and many bars and restaurants will serve them as a snack to enjoy with an aperitivo. 

5. Burrata

No trip to Puglia would be complete without trying burrata, a type of cheese made with mozzarella and cream. It’s one of the most popular foods in the region and you’ll find it on many restaurant menus.

Burrata is creamy and delicious – perfect for spreading onto salty focaccia or pairing with tomatoes and basil as an appetizer. Traditionally it was made using buffalo milk, but cows’ milk is used more often now. I’ve tasted both types and, honestly, they’re equally as tasty!

6. Tiella

One of the most traditional dishes in Puglia, Tiella di Cozze, Patate e Riso.  Tiella is a layered casserole dish that combines mussels, potatoes, and rice. The dish is assembled by layering the ingredients with a mixture of tomatoes, onions, parsley, and olive oil. It is then baked to create a flavorful and hearty seafood dish. It’s usually cooked in a terracotta pan over an open fire which gives it an incredible, subtly smoky flavor.

Even if you don’t like mussels, you can still enjoy other varieties of this amazing dish. A popular vegetarian variety is made with eggplant and zucchini.

The combination of ingredients in tiella makes it a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s often served with some crusty bread and accompanied by a glass of white wine.

7. Fave e Cicoria

Fave e cicorie is a popular peasant dish in Puglia. It consists of fava beans, which are cooked until creamy with garlic and olive oil, and served with sautéed chicory greens. The combination of the creamy fava beans and the slightly bitter greens creates a delicious and nutritious dish.  This simple combination of ingredients creates a hearty soup that’s full of flavor and nutrition.

 

 

8.Panzerotti

Panzerotti are fried turnovers similar to calzones. They are made by folding and sealing small circles of dough filled with ingredients such as tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and sometimes other fillings like ham or mushrooms. They are then deep-fried until golden and crispy. Panzerotti are a popular street food in Puglia and can be found in many bakeries and pizzerias.

9. Cartellate

Cartellate are traditional Puglian pastries made during the holiday season. Made from flour, white wine, olive oil, and sugar, and are pressed into shapes like small stars or flowers.

The unique shapes are made by rolling out strips of dough, which are then twisted into various shapes and fried until golden.  The cartellate are then soaked in warm honey or vincotto (cooked wine syrup) and sprinkled with ground cinnamon or powdered sugar. The sweetness of the pastry combined with the sticky honey is truly divine. They make the perfect ending to a typical meal in Puglia.

These fried pastries are usually served as a dessert and are traditionally eaten during the festive winter period, although you can find them in bakeries throughout the year.

10. Puccia

Puccia is a type of bread roll that is popular in Puglia, especially in the Salento area. It is typically made from a simple dough of flour, water, yeast, and salt. Puccia is baked until golden and then sliced open to be filled with various ingredients such as cured meats, cheeses, vegetables, and sauces. It’s a delicious and satisfying street food option.

11.  Fritto Misto

This delicious dish combines a selection of seafood and/or vegetables, which are lightly coated in flour and fried. Think of it as a bit like Puglian tempura.

Fritto misto is usually just served with lemon juice and salt, although some places offer other sauces on the side too. It’s one of the most popular dishes in Puglia and can be found on many restaurant menus, as well as from food trucks and outdoor stands in most major cities.

As a cheap and quick meal on the go, fritto misto is hard to beat. 

12. Gelato

I know you can get gelato everywhere when you’re traveling around Italy, but the gelato in Puglia is some of the very best. It’s creamy, smooth, and incredibly rich.

Delicious at any time of day (or night), a scoop or two of high-quality gelato is one of the best things to enjoy after a typical meal in Puglia.

 

13. Pettole

These are essentially Puglian donuts, and they’re a real treat! They’re small balls of dough that have been deep-fried and are usually served with various sauces or sprinkled with sugar.

You can get sweet pettole and savory pettole, and some are even savory-sweet. Any way you have them, they’re incredibly moreish – it’s almost impossible to just eat one!

The savory ones tend to be served as appetizers (sometimes stuffed with cheese or mushrooms), whereas the sweet ones make great desserts (especially if they’ve been dipped in honey).

Pettole can also be found in bakeries and street food stalls throughout Puglia, and also feature on many restaurant menus in various forms. In Bari, they’re known locally as popizze but are otherwise the same.

 

14. Melanzane Ripiene

A famous dish of Puglia, this is essentially an eggplant stuffed with a meat mixture (though you can also get veggie versions), tomatoes, and herbs. The resulting flavor is simply delicious – the sweetness of the eggplant combines with the salty flavors of the filling to make something truly mouthwatering.

Melanzane ripiene is usually served as a main course and is perfect with some crusty bread and a glass or two of red wine. 

15. Panzerotti

Another famous dish in Puglia is panzerotti. These are small parcels of pizza dough with a pocket of filling – a bit like mini calzones. They’re usually deep-fried and served warm, so they make the perfect quick lunch or snack on the go.

There are all kinds of fillings available, from cheese and tomato to spinach and ricotta, but my favorite has to be the traditional version with mozzarella and tomato.

A Panzerotti filled with cheese, salami and stew leek.

You won’t struggle to find these tasty treats across Puglia, so be sure to give them a try when you’re there. In Bari’s Old Town, Bakery Santa Rita serves particularly good ones.

16. Pasticciotti

Pasticciotti is a traditional Puglian pastry that’s made with a sweet crust and filled with custard. It’s usually served at room temperature, but can also be heated and served with cream or gelato.

They make a great snack or dessert and can be found in pretty much any bakery or cafe throughout the region.

The Top 6 Cheeses to Taste in Puglia

A picturesque region located in southern Italy, Puglia boasts a rich cheese-making tradition that has been honed over centuries.

Puglia’s cheese heritage is deeply intertwined with its agricultural landscape, which features fertile plains, olive groves, and grazing pastures. This combination of abundant natural resources and a dedication to traditional cheese-making techniques has led to the production of some exceptional cheeses that are celebrated both locally and internationally.

The cheeses of Puglia are often characterized by their simplicity, authenticity, and high-quality ingredients. The region’s cheese artisans take great pride in using locally sourced milk, whether it be from cows, sheep, or goats. This emphasis on local production ensures the freshness and unique flavors of Puglian cheeses.

1. Burrata

One of the most renowned cheeses from Puglia is burrata. This delicacy, often considered a specialty of the region, is a true masterpiece of cheese-making.

Burrata is a creamy and delicate cheese that originated in the Apulia region. It is made from cow’s milk and is characterized by its outer shell of stretched mozzarella and a filling of stracciatella cheese ( shredded mozzarella) and cream.  The result is a luscious and creamy cheese with a delicate texture that oozes when cut open. A delectable and luxurious treat.   Burrata has gained international acclaim for its exquisite taste and has become a popular ingredient in various culinary creations.

 2. Canestrato Pugliese:

Canestrato Pugliese is a traditional aged Puglia cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has a firm crumbly texture and a slightly sharp salty flavor. The cheese is typically aged for several months, during which it develops a distinctive taste. Canestrato Pugliese is often grated over pasta dishes, enjoyed as a table cheese or accompanied by cured meats and bread eaten with  wine.   

3. Caciocavallo:

Caciocavallo is a semi-hard cheese made from cow’s milk. Well-regarded for its firm texture and distinctive flavor. Caciocavallo Podolico, made from the milk of Podolica cows, exhibits a nutty and complex taste that intensifies with age. It has a smooth and elastic texture with a slightly tangy flavor. Caciocavallo is traditionally shaped like a gourd and hung to age. It can be enjoyed on its own, grated over pasta, or melted in various dishes.

4. Ricotta:

Ricotta is a popular cheese found throughout Italy, including Puglia. It is made from the whey left over from the production of other cheeses. Ricotta has a creamy and slightly sweet flavor. It is used in various Puglian dishes, such as pasticciotti (a traditional sweet pastry found all over Puglia especially in Lecce) and pasta fillings.

 

5. Pecorino:

Pecorino is a family of cheeses made from sheep’s milk. In Puglia, you can find various types of pecorino, such as Pecorino di Grottaglie and Pecorino di Murgia. These cheeses have a firm and crumbly texture with a slightly sharp and nutty flavor. They are often enjoyed grated over pasta or served on cheese platters.

6. Stracciatella:

Stracciatella is a cheese specialty from the region of Andria in Puglia. It is made by mixing shreds of mozzarella curd with cream, resulting in a creamy, stringy texture. Stracciatella is commonly used as a filling for burrata or served alongside tomatoes and basil.

These are just a few examples of the popular cheeses you can find in Puglia. The region’s cheese production is diverse, and each cheese offers its own unique flavors and characteristics. Exploring local markets, cheese shops, and traditional Puglian cuisine is a great way to discover and savor these delightful cheeses.

Puglia’s cheese-making traditions are deeply rooted in the region’s culture and history. Many cheese producers in Puglia are small-scale, family-owned businesses that have passed down their cheese-making techniques from generation to generation. These artisans take great care in preserving the traditional methods, ensuring the continuation of authentic Puglian cheese.

Whether enjoyed as a standalone treat, melted into dishes, or used as a flavorful ingredient, Puglia’s cheeses captivate the taste buds with their unique profiles and regional charm. From the creamy indulgence of burrata to the robust flavors of aged cheeses, exploring Puglia’s cheese offerings is a delightful journey through its culinary heritage.

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