December 31, 2008

German Christmas Markets ...

This year was the year of Christmas markets for me. I went to Germany way too late last year to be in time for the celebration of handy crafts, kitsch and the most important ingredients: loads of food and Glühwein.

This year I already discovered delicious Glühwein and even Schmalzkuchen at the Dublin Christmas market at the IFSC. It instantly made me feel better after a rather hectic December.

Finally in Germany I immediately headed for the nearest Schmalzkuchen booth at the local Christmas market. I bought a portion for 2.50€ thinking that it would probably just satisfy my initial appetite, but then I was almost overwhelmed with the enormous amount of the delicious pastry I got. Sadly I have to report that I failed to eat it all despite the support of my youngest sister (we really need to put in more effort next time).

Instead of Glühwein I had to make do with Finnish Glögi as we went to a Finnish Christmas market (I have never really seen a Christmas market in Finland, but if you are looking for a Finnish Christmas market it seems the place to find it is Hanover). They also had lovely pirakka and salmiakki filled fazer chocolate.

I hope all enjoyed Christmas and I wish you a happy New Year!