Sorry for the radio silence, but I’ve been in Turkey for the last two weeks. Battling foreign language keyboards and ancient internet hook ups is near impossible after a day of walking under the sun, but I have an old fashioned notebook filled with things to share. Let’s start with some Turkey basics.
Deodorant is not a cultural norm. 
Kebabs rotate on every street corner and can cost as little as 1 TYL (70¢).
The Islamic call to prayer can be heard five times a day- everywhere.
A Turkish breakfast.
Many women wear veils.
Bus attendants wear bowties.
Turks drink tea from rose shaped glasses- all day long.
Baklava is addictive- I had two pieces a night for two weeks.
Cats and dogs run the streets like Kings.
The best was to experience Italian cuisine is in a home kitchen. If you find yourself behind the stove, make authenticity simple with some local produce.
Thin, crisp, and sweet- cook this flavorful string bean cousin in salty boiling water to maintain its beautiful green hue.
Take a whiff and you’ll notice something different about the tomatoes in Italy. Often sold fresh on the vine, they have a sweet/tang to match their earthy scent.
Inexpensive and accessible, supermarkets are fantastic destinations for the impromptu meal. Try a couple of these Italian household staples for a simple meal worth talking about.
Does the shiny coat and gummy texture of the average aged prosciutto turn you off? Try the more accessible prosciutto cotto. Fully cooked with a more Easter Ham like texture, it’s also a big hit with kids.
Ice cube trays of frozen stock may not line your freezer, but this instant broth from Knorr is the next best thing. 
