After the introduction, in which Jelena Ivanišević, PhD, from the Institute of Ethnology and Folklore Research in Zagreb, had talked about the importance and significance of the Mediterranean diet, and explained the principles of its pyramids, the practical part of the course started. As the Mediterranean diet primarily includes fresh and seasonal foods, the participants of the course followed Sergio Ferrara through the picturesque Rovinj streets to the nearby market. The selection of quality, the right type and, above all, fresh fish for the preparation at the course included a number of valuable tips from Sergio that were absorbed by the captivated participants, eager to apply them immediately.
The return to Spacio Matika marked the beginning of the preparation of the dishes in the "kitchen with the most beautiful view", that is, in the kitchen located in the open area of the tavern, right by the sea. By sharing the knowledge he gained while growing up in Rovinj in the family of fishermen and captains and cooking for decades in the Italian Elementary School, Sergio has demonstrated the techniques for cleaning fish, uncovered many secrets and tricks of its preparation, highlighted the characteristics of Rovinj climate, and told many interesting stories. Cooking was accompanied by laughter, learning and sharing experiences in a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere. And Rovinj seagulls happily joined in the sharing of delicious bites “served” by the participants while cleaning the fish.
According to Tamara Nikolić Đerić, President of the House of Batana Association and Professional Program Manager of the Batana Eco-museum, the Mediterranean cuisine course will become a permanent part of the Rovinj tourist offer. The Association and the Eco-museum "House of Batana" with partners in Rovinj - DIK&Company tourist agency and the Heritage Hotel Angelo D'Oro - will organize one-day classes for visitors and residents throughout the year. In order to extend the season, in out of season periods packages of three-day classes will be organized, and will include a visit to the Eco-museum and a ride on a batana around Rovinj. The details about the class can be found here, and read more about Mediterranean diet as a phenomenon of intangible cultural heritage ranked on the UNESCO list on blog www.traditionallytasty.com