Bon Appetit Recommended: Roots of Russia

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Combine your love of cooking and culture on this half-day tour that introduces you to the history and significance of pelmeni and vodka - two of Russia's culinary staples. Surprise your family and friends back home when you impress them with this traditional dish.

Begin your tour with a visit to one of the oldest Gastronome in St Petersburg ,"Eliseev Merchants'" store located in the very heart of the city on Nevsky prospect. The Store was built in the early 20th century in Art Nouveau style and stands out against classic architecture of Nevsky prospect with its luxurious exterior trim, stained-glass windows and frontispiece sculptures. Luxury interior is designed to outline its prosperity. The store provides a wide assortment of goods selected from the best international manufacturers. Then you will transport to a local restaurant where you will receive a warm welcome from the chef. Don an apron and prepare for a hands-on cooking demonstration that introduces you to pelmeni - one of Russia's most beloved national dishes.

A pelmeni is a delicious meat dumpling seasoned with savory spices. They are usually boiled, although some regions prefer to fry them. While a plate of pelmeni might not look very gourmet, it is the soul of Russian cuisine and is prepared in every home across the country as a hearty family meal.

Learn the cooking techniques and work side by side with the chef Fedorov Alexey, in a relaxed and friendly environment. You will learn not only the steps involved in the recipe but the history of this dish as well. As a child, Chef Fedorov Alexey was fascinated with the culinary masterpieces that his aunt created at her kitchen. He studied at one of the most prestigious culinary schools in St Petersburg. During his career he has expanded his professional skills in different fields such as Sous-Vide, Food Pairing, use of liquid nitrogen in cooking and molecular cuisine and specializes in local cuisine.

Next, take a seat with your host and savor your creation along with additional snacks and real Russian vodka.

Russian vodka is potent and legendary. Vodka, or firewater as it is sometimes called, is a drink engrained in Russian culture, inebriating 12th-century peasants and 20th-century presidents alike. Learn more about the spirit's 500 years of history and sample several iconic brands. While Tsar Alexander III set a standard of 80-proof for Russian Vodka in 1894, it was Russian scientist Dmitri Mendeleev who is said to have created the formula for the perfect 40-proof vodka that continues today. Taste different brands and see which one you like the most. Raise a glass and say "za vashe zdorovie," which means "to your health."

Satiated, relax on the motorcoach ride back to port and chat with your fellow foodies about your new-found appreciation for the traditions of Russian gastronomy.

Special Notes:

THIS TOUR IS NOT AVAILABLE TO PASSENGERS EMBARKING OR DISEMBARKING IN ST. PETERSBURG
Note: Minimum age is seven.

If restaurant Biscuit Banquet is not available, your cooking class will be conducted at Literaturnoe Cafe under the guidance of their chef.