FoodofBelgium.ppt

Features Gourmet of Belgium Features Gourmet of Belgium Chocolate Waffle Omelette (软煎蛋卷) The Kingdom of Chocolate Belgium is commonly known for its chocolate. Belgian chocolate is considered to be the gourmet standard by which all other chocolate confections are measured. Even in todays world of automation and mass production, most Belgium chocolate is still made by hand in shops using original equipment. The History of Belgian Chocolate The history of Belgian chocolate began 2,000 years ago in the rain forests of South America where the cacao tree was first discovered. Ancient cultures of Mexico and Central America are credited with mixing ground cacao tree seeds with spices to create a dark and frothy drink. Spanish explorers returned from South America with cacao seeds and popularized the new drink in the royal court. Soon, imported cacao became a trade, new recipes were invented and shared, and within 100 years, chocolate spread throughout Europe. During the 17th century, Belgium was ruled by Spain and thereby introduced to chocolate. Then Chocolate Arrives in Belgium. Many royalty, artists and others of nobility experienced their first chocolate drink in the beautiful Grand Place. Belgium chocolates come in a variety of shapes, sizes and savours. Belgian waffles The modern waffle has its origins in the wafers—very light thin crisp cakes baked between wafer irons—of the Middle Age in the Province of Brabant of Belgium. Wafer irons consisted of two metal plates connected by a hinge, with each plate connected to an arm with a wooden handle. The iron was placed over a fire and flipped to cook both sides of the wafer. Brussels waffles, are prepared with a yeast-leavened batter. It is generally lighter, thicker, and crispier and has larger pockets compared to other waffle varieties. Belgian Waffles In Belgium, most waffles are served warm by street vendors and dusted with confectioners sugar though in tourist areas they might be topped with whipp