Travel with Rick Steves 776 Bulgarian Christmas; What's New in Istanbul; Eight Flavors in the Pantry
Dec 14, 2024
Stefan Bozadzhiev, a Bulgarian tour guide, shares enchanting insights into Christmas traditions, highlighting the significance of fasting and festive feasts. Lali Sermin Aran updates listeners on Istanbul's vibrant cultural scene, discussing its modernization and rich historical tapestry. Culinary historian Sarah Lohman reveals the eight flavors that connect America's diverse cuisine, uncovering surprising spice origins and immigrant influences. Together, these guests paint a vivid picture of culture, celebration, and culinary history.
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Bulgarian Christmas Eve Traditions
- Bulgarians traditionally eat vegan meals on Christmas Eve, marking the end of a 40-day fast.
- The number of dishes must be odd, and incense is burned to ward off evil spirits.
Bulgarian Christmas Day Feast
- On Christmas Day in rural Bulgaria, families traditionally slaughter a pig and hold a feast.
- Neighbors and relatives join, and a quarter of the pig is eaten on the spot.
Bulgarian Christmas Season
- Key Bulgarian Christmas season dates include St. Nicholas Day (fish is mandatory), Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
- Epiphany features a priest throwing a cross into freezing water for young men to retrieve.