For the most part, I have always had an appetite, coupled with an insatiable sweet tooth. Somehow, I've managed to stay thin. I was a pretty active kid, and I had to eat to support my activity. Now, I'm branching out, trying new foods both at restaurants and in my own kitchen. I love the smells that accompany a good meal; I love the flavors of exotic dishes from around the world.
Sometime in college, I started to develop an interest in seeing the world. It started with road trips with friends, for spring break, long weekends, or summer adventures. After graduation, I took a month-long whirlwind tour through Europe and since then I've been hooked. I don't get to travel nearly as much as I would like, especially outside the U.S., but that's something I'm consistently working on. I crave the sights and sounds of other countries, the landmarks and religious icons that have been around for centuries, and the food that holds entire cultures together.
This past Christmas, my brother gave me this:
It's called Around The World in 450 Recipes, and it's a collection of recipes from different countries and regions, covering dishes from Mexican chilaquiles to Moroccan Monkfish Cous Cous to Thai Stir Fry Scallops, Spicy Green Beans, and Hot & Sour Pork. It covers Italian breads and pastas, Spanish Seafood Paella, and French Ratatouille and Crepes Suzette. This book was exactly what I needed to quench my thirst for more options--to help me travel the world if only through my own kitchen. And it got me thinking...
If I can combine the two things I love and satisfy two of my strongest urges, why not share it?
Welcome to Wanderlust & Gluttony, a place to share adventures in food and travel, whether it's a local restaurant in Portland, a city I visit for a weekend, or a meal I make at home.
May your appetite never be satisfied, your glass never empty, or your world too far out of reach.