|
A Chilling, Thrilling Gourmet ExperienceIceland's Food and Fun FestivalBy Madelyn Miller
And in Iceland, where it is frequently freezing cold, they really know how to enjoy their wine and food and make the most of the chill. Actually, the name Iceland does not really reflect the temperature. Iceland is often above freezing and warmer in the winter than many US East Coast locations. This year, the capital city of Reykjavik has been in the 40’s most of the winter, and has not gotten as much snow as the East Coast of the US When I was there last year, the small capital city, Reykjavik, was full of enthusiastic visitors who were enjoying life and really fantastic food. Selected restaurants turned into exclusive gourmet clubs, where international chefs and visitors from all over the world chatted with each other like old friends. Now is the time to reserve a place at the big table up North. Plan a visit to a most unusual culinary festival spiced with outstanding entertainment in the home country of Björk, GusGus, SigurRos and so many other fascinating artists. And no matter where you live, you will be grateful when you return home that the weather is so warm. The International Chefs´ Competition in Reykjavik, The ICELAND NATURALLY FOOD & FUN FESTIVAL February 27 to march 2, 2003 THE WINNERS IN 2002Overall Winner – Gilles Choukroun – Executive Chef, Le Café des Délices Best Starter – Jim MacGee from Boston Best Fish Course – Gary Coyle from Tavern on the Green in New York. Best Meat Course – Patrick Decekal from Palac Kinskych in Prag. Best Dessert – Patrick Decekal from Palac Kinskych in Prag. DELICIOUS DETAILSOne of the best kept secrets about Iceland is its food. In fact, 80% of Iceland's economy is based on the highly specialized food industry. The honored tradition of pure natural agriculture and sustainable fisheries is the foundation for Iceland's food-products which include fresh seafood, all natural smoked salmon and free range lamb. INDOOR SPORTS AND ACTIVITIESBesides eating, you can visit interesting stores from many of Europe’s capital cities. And I found a wonderful hand-knit wool ski sweater in a resale shop for $12. But the most interesting place to visit is the Penis Museum, officially named the Icelandic Pahllogical Museum. You need to call and check the hours on this popular place that displays the organs of almost every mammal except man. (and a man has willed his organ to the museum upon his death) This may sound like an x-rated activity. But it was actually developed by
a school science teacher and the curiosity and interest inspired him to turn
it into a public museum. Admission is not cheap ($8) when you consider that
it is only the size of someone’s living room, but who else has a collection
like this? Another bizarre piece of Penis trivia is that viewed from the air,Smaralind, the newest mall has a phallic shape. Iceland could be a whole trivial pursuit game, there are so many interesting, surprising facts. SPASThere is almost nothing that feels better than a soothing massage when you are chilled to the bone. And these spas all know how to make your bones and muscles feel better. Mecca Spa They were just expanding this gorgeous spa when I visited. I expect it
will be even better than before If you want to do it all, the horseback riding tour company, Ishestar, has a wonderful package option where people can go horseback riding and then enjoy a massage at the Mecca Spa after their riding tour. Planet Reykjavik located downtown Reykjavik. They have a variety of spa treatments,
massages and beauty treatments. Very contemporary setting and excellent
therapists Blue Lagoon Very near the airport, this is a great way to start or end your trip to
Iceland and avoid jetlag. It is also the ending point for some Ishestar
riding tours where you finish up with a relaxing soak in the warm mineral
springs which are heated by geothermal energy GOOD NIGHTSIcelanders love the night life, an you will, too. However, since it is an island in the north Atlantic everything is imported (although the fish is very fresh), so it is expensive to go out. Most natives drink before they go out. The night life in Old town is actually a big part of the culture, and lots of fun. Actually, I would suggest staying in Old Town. Most of the hotels are by the airport which us a ride from the city. I would suggest Hotel Skjaldbreid . It's right in the heart of Old town DON’T MISSRiding Icelandic horses is one of those must do experiences. These pony-sized horses are actually a big part of Icelandic culture. They were instrumental in the Vikings settlement of the island and the natives hold them dear to their heart. The pony's also have a unique trot unlike any other horse or pony in the world. THE UNDISCOVERED FACTORThere aren’t a lot of guidebooks to Iceland. But once you decide to go, you will find it is like joining a select club. People who have been to Iceland are extraordinarily eager to share their experiences with you. The most recommended experience (besides eating and drinking) is the BLUE LAGOON, an outdoor "spa" with healing waters and mud. The blue in the name comes from an almost florescent glow. The experience during the day is one of family fun, at night it gets quite romantic. You may want to inquire about a tour. They are cheap and will take you to many of the natural sites around the area. I would suggest the Golden Circle tour. You will see all the natural wonders - waterfalls, mountains, volcanoes, gorges, lava fields, glaciers, geysers and if you are lucky the Northern Lights. KNOW BEFORE YOU GOThis 39,750 square mile island is Europe’s second largest Island. The population is 272,00 of which 164,000 reside in the greater Reykjavik area. With just over a quarter of a million inhabitants, Iceland ranks among the least densely populated nations in the world. Life expectancy is among the highest in the world, attributed to a low infant mortality rate, fish-based diet and excellent health care. LANGUAGEIcelandic is a very pure descendent of Old Norse. But almost everyone speaks perfect English as well as many other languages. MONEYThe Icleandic Krona (ISK) is 71 to the US Dollar. In most stores where tourists might shop, prices are also indicated in US Dollars IF YOU CAN’T GET THERE, TRY THESE ICELANDIC RECIPES AT HOMEIf you want to use authentic Icelandic Ingredients, you can order the ingredients for these recipes http://www.icelandnaturally.com/food_sale.shtml BAKED SALMON WITH ORANGE BUTTER SAUCE f. 6 pers 6 pcs of 6 oz salmon fillet Place salmon slices in a sheet pan, sprinkle with lemon juice, white wine
(optional) and salt and pepper. Set aside for 10 minutes. Recipe by Chef Hilmar B. Jónsson FISH PATÉ
2 lb fish * Shrimp sauce: 1 cup heavy cream Make sure that all items are ice cold for this recipe, also the container
of the food processor. The knife in the food processor has to be as sharp as
it can be. * Optional: Use Flounder, Sole, Halibut, Cod, Haddock, Salmon or Trout. Recipe by Chef Hilmar B. Jónsson BAKED COD WITH LEEK SAUCE
f. 6 pers 6 pcs 4-6 ounces Cod loins Place cod loins on a buttered sheet pan, sprinkle with lemon juice and
season to taste with salt and pepper. Bake in a 400 F hot oven for 8-10
minutes. An old Icelandic recipe "a la Chef Hilmar B. Jónsson" BEST WAY TO GET THEREIcelandair Connections from the East Coast of the United States are quick and easy. Direct flights take less than six hours, and are almost easier than flying coast to coast. Air Iceland GETTING AROUNDThere is an excellent bus system in Reykjavik. It is easy to get around, but cold waiting for buses. Cabs are not cheap, but worth it. GREAT GUIDEBOOKSInsight Guide Iceland FOR MORE INFORMATION |
|
TM
There is nothing better than joining friends for fabulous food and wine
when the weather is freezing outside.
