#artisan crafted salts

[letsatomicbanana]

Ink!Sans Cultural Inspiration

(revised version)

art by @/sakuramochi64 on twitter

Disclaimer!

This post aims to explore and analyze both the prominent and subtle East Asian cultural influences—primarily Japanese—that have shaped the character of Ink!Sans. By examining these influences, we can better understand how traditional East Asian aesthetics and artistic practices are woven into Ink’s design and powers. If any information in this essay is inaccurate or unintentionally offensive, please don’t hesitate to reach out! This essay serves as a revised and updated version of the analysis conducted last year, incorporating new insights and refined perspectives to enhance our understanding of Ink!Sans’s character and his cultural influences.

Ink!Sans by @comyet/@myebi

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''It was a night where it felt like i was a miserable artist and i was very frustrated at my work and it felt like i wasn’t worth alot (we all have these), then I came across a picture of a japanese ink brush, and it was all I needed to start doodling a concept.

That’s how Ink is born.''

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According to Ink’s creator, Comyet, the idea for Ink!Sans was sparked by an image of a brush specifically crafted for sumi and Chinese ink art. In China, the tradition of using specialized ink brushes, known as Chinese writing brushes, has been a foundational element in the art of calligraphy and traditional painting for centuries. These brushes are highly valued for their precision and versatility, allowing artists to produce a range of strokes, from fine lines to bold, expressive swashes. The brush itself is composed of a bamboo handle and a carefully tapered head made from animal hair, designed to hold and release ink in controlled flows.

This tool became central not only in Chinese culture but also influenced Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese art, where calligraphy holds a similar cultural significance and is closely tied to writing systems derived from Chinese characters. These brushes symbolize the control, fluidity, and intentionality required in both written language and visual art across East Asia. This deep-rooted cultural importance of the ink brush inspired Ink!Sans's character design and powers, allowing him to wield 'ink-based' abilities, symbolizing both creativity and adaptability. His main weapon—a brush—reflects this heritage and further emphasizes the connection between art and battle, as he channels the brush’s traditional associations with fluidity and strength into his fighting style, merging the arts of calligraphy and combat.

(visual example of an ink calligraphy brush)

At glance, the ink material is an enduring medium that still surrounds society till this day and it's used in multiple cultures across the world.

Writing with ink calligraphy brushes is also common in Europe and the Middle East, where artisans developed ink using a unique combination of iron salts and oak galls. This type of ink, known as iron gall ink, initially appeared in rich, dark tones, making it highly desirable for manuscripts and official documents due to its bold, readable quality. However, over time, the iron in the ink oxidized, resulting in a distinct color shift to warm, rust-like brown tones. This characteristic fading can still be observed today in ancient manuscripts, such as early European literary works, where the reddish-brown hues give a sense of history to these documents. The durability and aesthetic appeal of iron gall ink contributed significantly to its prevalence in both regions, influencing the artistry of calligraphy and manuscript illumination for centuries.

Like previously mentioned, Ink!Sans was inspired by traditional ink materials developed in East Asia, where artisans mastered the creation of carbon-based black ink, often using soot or charcoal mixed with binding agents like animal glue. This type of ink, known for its rich, deep color and lasting durability, was a staple in East Asian calligraphy and artwork. Unlike iron gall ink, this carbon-based ink maintained its dark, almost jet-black color for centuries, even in varying environmental conditions. The resilience of this ink allowed ancient texts, paintings, and scrolls to retain their striking contrast and clarity, making it a celebrated medium in East Asian art and culture. Ink!Sans draws inspiration from this enduring quality, symbolizing strength, creativity, and the timelessness of artistic expression

(visual example of an ancient art piece that used carbon-based black ink)

To note, unlike iron gall ink, carbon based inks are still very common to this day.

Although the primary Chinese calligraphic scripts were well established by the fourth century, calligraphy as an art form has continually evolved over the centuries, adapting to new cultural and aesthetic influences. Skilled calligraphers, who spent years mastering brush techniques and perfecting their own unique hand, were celebrated for their distinctive styles, and their works became templates for both art and personal expression. Over time, subsequent generations of artists studied these revered styles, incorporating and reinterpreting them to reflect their individual voices and the changing social landscapes. This ongoing transformation has kept Chinese calligraphy dynamic and relevant, and it remains a respected art form today, blending tradition with contemporary aesthetics.

In Japan, calligraphy also held deep cultural significance, symbolizing both personal refinement and intellectual achievement. Calligraphy was regarded as a mark of scholarly sophistication and artistic taste, with a variety of tools developed to enhance the writing experience. One notable example is the suzuribako ("ink stone box"), a portable lacquered wood box designed to store an inkstone, water dropper, brushes, and solid ink sticks. These boxes were crafted with precision and adorned with intricate lacquer designs, reflecting their owner’s status and appreciation for art. Suzuribako were lightweight and convenient, enabling calligraphers to take their tools outdoors or to scenic locations to write letters, diary entries, or poetry. This practice not only facilitated creativity but also connected the act of writing with nature, creating an immersive experience where one could find inspiration in the surrounding beauty while crafting words in elegant brushstrokes. The combination of these refined tools and settings underscored calligraphy’s role as a deeply personal and aesthetic pursuit in Japanese culture.

From this perspective, it is essential to highlight that Ink's character draws inspiration from traditional ink calligraphy, a detail reflected in his distinctive speech font, 'Note This'.

(Example of Ink's canon speaking font and ancient calligraphy)

Also clarified in an ask on her side blog, Comyet explained that traditional samurai clothing served as a key inspiration for Ink's outfit redesign in 2020. Ink's creator thoughtfully incorporated these characteristics to enhance Ink’s visual appeal and connection to his main source of inspiraton. This influence is particularly noticeable in the first and second analyses of Ink's character, where we see clear visual cues from iconic Japanese garments like the hakama.

(Ink!sans reference sheet for the 2020 design, credit goes to @/comyet)

Ink's pants were inspired by hakama, a traditional Japanese garment known for its distinctive design as skirt-like trousers, typically worn over a kimono. Hakama are historically associated with a range of activities, from ceremonial occasions to martial arts, and are often considered a symbol of status and refinement. Specifically, Ink's pants appear to be inspired by the umanori style of hakama, which is characterized by a split or division in the middle, allowing for greater freedom of movement. This style was traditionally worn by samurai and other individuals involved in horseback riding, as the design allowed for ease of movement and flexibility when mounting or riding a horse.

The umanori hakama were not only practical for riding but also served as a functional yet elegant garment, embodying the balance of form and function typical in Japanese clothing. By incorporating this style into Ink's character design, Comyet likely intended to evoke themes of mobility, agility, and strength, while subtly referencing Japanese martial traditions and the samurai ethos. This choice enhances Ink's overall aesthetic, highlighting his dynamic, action-oriented nature, suggesting that his character is both rooted in tradition and capable of fluid, graceful movement.

The hakama was not merely a functional garment but also a powerful symbol of social status, loyalty, and the samurai's role in Edo society. While the hakama was predominantly worn by samurai, it also found its place in the wardrobe of scholars, priests, and members of the aristocracy, who wore it as part of their ceremonial dress.

Furthermore, Comyet has explained that Ink's outfit and appearance were partially inspired by the clothing worn by samurai, as depicted in ukiyo-e prints from the Edo Period of Japan. Ukiyo-e, which translates to 'pictures of the floating world,' was a popular genre of woodblock prints and paintings that flourished from the 17th to the 19th centuries, showcasing scenes of everyday life, landscapes, kabuki actors, and beautiful women. However, samurai were also common subjects of these prints, often portrayed in full regalia, highlighting their status and discipline.

(this line of text was found within old versions of Ink's FAQ post, mainly from 2020-2021)

In these ukiyo-e representations, samurai are frequently depicted wearing a distinctive combination of garments, including elaborate kamishimo (formal attire worn by samurai), hakama (wide trousers), and haori (a kimono-style jacket worn over the kimono), along with ornate accessories such as sashes and swords. These samurai were often shown in dynamic poses, suggesting a sense of power, grace, and readiness for battle, which reflected their societal role as both warriors and landowners.

Ukiyo-e representations of samurai often carried deeper meanings beyond their visual impact. Samurai in these prints were more than just warriors; they were cultural icons, symbols of virtue, duty, and sacrifice. Some prints portrayed samurai in the context of popular stories or historical events, such as famous battles or legendary acts of heroism. For example, the prints often depicted samurai as loyal retainers or leaders fighting for justice, reflecting the ideal of bushidō, the samurai code of ethics, which emphasized virtues like loyalty, courage, and respect.

(Ukiyo-e art made by Katsukama Shun'ei, Edo Period)

During the Edo period, the hakama was an important garment worn by the nobility as part of their formal attire, complementing other traditional outfits of the time, such as the noshi and kariginu, a sleeveless jacket with distinctive, sharply defined shoulders. These garments were designed to symbolize the status and refined taste of their wearers. The hakama, with its wide, flowing silhouette, was highly functional and practical, allowing for ease of movement while maintaining an air of elegance.

On another note, Ink's design is not the only aspect influenced by Japanese culture; the musical themes associated with him also draw significant inspiration from traditional Japanese music, as described by Comyet. The incorporation of these musical elements into Ink's character enhances the depth and cultural resonance of his persona, creating a multi-layered experience that ties his abilities, appearance, and thematic representation to a broader cultural context.

A predominant theme associated with Ink that highlights his deep inspiration from traditional Asian styles is one called 'BrushWork.' This musical theme, featured in the popular series Underverse, plays a crucial role in reflecting Ink’s connection to East Asian culture, particularly through its use of the shamisen, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument, and a flute. The choice of the shamisen in this composition is significant, as it evokes the soundscape of Japan, with its distinct, plucked tones often associated with traditional music, storytelling, and performance arts.

The shamisen is a core instrument in genres such as kabuki (a traditional form of Japanese drama) and bunraku (puppet theater), where it is used to underscore the emotional intensity and narrative depth of the performances. In BrushWork, the shamisen helps set the tone for Ink’s character, enhancing the theme of 'brushwork' through its fluid, emotive sound.

Honorable mention: The instrumental video for ''Soulless Heart'', features an artwork that is inspired by traditional sumi-e (ink wash painting), a Japanese art form renowned for its elegant brushwork and minimalistic yet profound depictions of nature. This particular artwork, which accompanies the music, was created by the talented artist @/sakuramochi64, whose style reflects the delicate balance and graceful simplicity typical of sumi-e paintings.

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Sources

1.National Museum of asian art (materials & techniques. Ink section)

2. Asian Brushpaper (an-overview-of-chinese-ink-history)

3. Wikipedia (wiki Hakama-pants+Shamisen)

4. Aikido Journal (Hakama-101)

[jester-lover]

Hi I would like to request the Twist dorm leaders with their s/o forcing them to get (or just to go with them) to get snake bite peirceing!

Snake Bites

dorm leaders with an s/o who has snake bites!

cw- piercings, blood mention, fluff, a lil insecurity, all around wholesome, gn! reader

( I couldn't find a good snake bites gif, so take Moomin)

Riddle

Riddle definitely grew up thinking piercings were unsightly or unrefined, but he quickly discarded that thought process seeing you enchanting you looked with your snake piercings

If your snake piercings are new, know that this boy will have you on your salt water regiment strictly, he will not see you suffer through infections!

He is definitely a fan of golden jewelry, and he may gift some to you on your birthday

“Dearest, remember to clean your piercings before classes today!”

Leona

Leona thinks your piercings are so cool, I mean look at him, the guy dresses like a grunge cowboy

If your piercing is new, he’ll be a little curious, asking if you bled or if it hurt, he cares about your well being

He loves lip rings, he thinks you look great with them

I feel like Leona would love having body mods, but really can’t because of his royal status, so he’ll be 100% supportive of yours

“The rings look better, more outgoing.”

Azul 

Azul has learned from his own childhood to not judge others based on appearance, especially not his own s/o. He likes your piercings for the way that they differentiate you from the other students, individualism is his bread and butter after all!

If your piercing is new, he’ll be extra careful not to snag or bother it accidentally, remembering to hug you with a tilt

In his own opinion, lip studs are better than rings, he especially likes the shiny bejeweled kind

“You truly are sparkling, my treasure.”

Kalim

Kalim is not unfamiliar with piercings, his own ears are pierced! He loves having an s/o with piercings/ body mods, because it gives him another excuse to spoil you rotten

If your piercing is new, he’ll have trouble not being as affectionate as he usually is, but he’ll manage

He buys you so much jewelry, he absolutely loves just surprising you with new jewels, and the price tag is the least of his worries

“I finally found the artisan who made my earrings, and I got him to make you matching snake bites.”

Vil

Vil adores your piercings, specifically if you let him give you little makeovers

If your piercing is new, he’ll keep you on a strict regimen, there will be un unsightly bumps, bleeding or sore skin on his watch

His most favorite thing to do when styling your snake bites is adding simple silver rings, and matching them with silver eyeshadow

“Now, liebling, keep your head still so I don’t spread the pigment to your nose.”

Idia

He thinks you look so awesome, like the rebellious character in a video game, which is why he’s really excited to ask you about your piercings

He’ll be a little surprised by all the care you have to put into maintaining a piercing after getting it, and he’ll admire you for making the commitment to your look

Idia gets the issue of getting weird looks, so he always knows how to uplift you when your feeling down

“So, you have to soak it in salt water two times a day? What happens if you wake up late?”

Malleus

Oh humans and their delightful little arts and crafts!

He finds himself enamored with the piercing process, asking you so many questions about the pain levels and how often you have to take care of it

Malleus loves your piercings so much, probably because he feels like you match him aesthetically with them

“Lilia had piercings just like those in the 2000s, don’t tell him, but in my own opinion you are far better suited to them.”

This is a scene/emo! Lilia stan account. (maybe a future fic idea?)

[hardlyinteresting]

Witch!reader thoughts

Kind of niche, but it's Samhain and it's on my mind so I figured I share

I myself can't really consider myself a witch, but I grew up surrounded by superstitions, tea readings, and cleansing. Over the last few years, I have been working to learn more from my friends who practice as I try to reconnect with historical Celtic practices and interweave them with my personal beliefs. For that reason, a lot of these head cannons are kind of surface level 💕

Masterlist | talk to me about Jake and Tyler

Tyler Owens and Jake Seresin below the cut

Tyler:

- Tyler definitely grew up going to church on Sundays, so I think it would take him a minute to accept his partners practices. Not because he's closed minded but it's just such a departure from what he grew up with.

- Tyler would definitely want to ask a lot of questions. He loves learning things, and understanding. He wants to know about what crystals are used for what, what dates are important

-I definitely think that having grown up in rural communities and around farming and stuff there are a lot of farmers tricks and old wives tales that I think he'd begin to connect to a lot of the beliefs his partner holds when it comes to the change of seasons etc

-he travels around for most of the summer months and I do believe he would start collecting plants and herbs to bring home. He'd pick up artisanal candles from farmers markets

-Arkansas has a lot of mines. They have diamonds, quartz, and rock salts and he'd be eager to gift the crystals to you when he had a chance.

-I think a lot of the crew would really be into it too as they learned more. Dexter would share facts about the history of certain practices from all over. Egypt to the Norse, Celtic practices etc he'd love being able to share historical context he knew. Lily I think would adore a quartz necklace as a gift. Dani would be curious and wanting to know more but in a casual kind of way. Boone I think would be a little afraid of it, but also intrigued and if Tyler isn't freaked out by it, I think he'd calm down especially as he started to learn more. That man definitely believes in ghosts and things so I think you could really connect with him when it came to paying respects to people who have passed, and the origins of holidays set to help connect with loved ones who have moved to the other side.

Jake

-I think Jake could be unintentionally dismissive of it. He's a little aloof and oblivious sometimes when it comes to the nuance of people's lives and experiences. And I can see him kind of brushing it off as a "SoCal, yoga and crystals" kind of fad or fashion thing.

-I think he'd be quick enough to learn that it's a lot deeper than that. And honestly I think he would really respect your dedication to your craft even if he didn't fully understand it.

-he can't say he believes in it, and I think that would have a lot to do with a his Texas Christian upbringing, and that he's a man of action who likes to be able to physically see the impact of his choices, spirituality doesn't come easy to him.

-that being said he'd regularly check in on any alter you had wanting to see what's been added and doing his best to understand seasonal changes etc

-he watch and listen carefully any time you shared part of your practice with him

-he doesn't know what they're all supposed to do, but if you give him tourmaline or amethyst to take with him on missions and deployments or even just daily flight practices, he doesn't ask questions. He would never admit it, but he doesn't like flying without one of your gifts with him. Your investment in his safety, and that fact that you believe so strongly starts to make him think they might really be his lucky charms.

-bonus: if you did tarot, I think it would freak him out a little bit any time something resonated and he'd choose to not have readings done. The dagger squad would be really into it though, and I can see Rooster coming by to ask a question before a mission. And it would really help build trust and community.

[gaslightgallows]

September 2023 Writing Round-Up

I just checked my tags, and I haven't done one of these since… three years ago. Exactly three years ago yesterday (9/29/20), to be precise. Which was pretty much when my mental health and my personal life started to crumble in earnest, and it took my desire to write for public consumption along with it.

Most of what I did for the rest of 2020/2021 were either struggling to finish works in progress (and largely failing) or archiving stuff from my LJ days. I didn't post anything in 2022. I was still writing (a lot) but it was either for Patreon (…fuck, right, I have a Patreon) or it was personal, not meant to be shared.

And then Good Omens came back and ended up being really fucking relevant to my life, and @meldanya44 was there urging me to get back into writing for other people besides her. I think it was a good idea, over all. ♥

So… yeah. Thanks, Good Omens fandom, for reminding me that writing is meant to be shared, and that I am a prompt-based lifeform. (I'll be putting up a new prompt list tomorrow, if anyone wants an artisanally crafted bespoke ficlet of their very own.)

Anyway, here's what I did in September:

Authorial Intent (G, one-shot): Michael’s plan to erase Aziraphale from the Book of Life has certain… flaws. A revision of the final season of S2 Ep6, where the Metatron does not make an appearance. (Actually posted at the end of August but this is my list and it counts. Written very shortly after I finished S2 for the first time. Effervescing with joy.)

Put Out the Stars (T, currently a one-shot, planning to continue): Crowley stole the photo of himself and Aziraphale from the shop a long time ago. (Inspired by one of @fellshish's asks. Angst angst angst… with more to come!)

An Invisible Wound (T, one-shot): “I almost killed you tonight.” “I almost got you killed tonight.” Their first kiss, soft and futile, is in 1941. (Bittersweet canon-compliant 1941 truthers unite.)

After the Rain (T, one-shot; for @meldanya44): The Second Coming has come and gone, and Crowley was calling him ‘angel’ again. (Wonderful quiet post-series fluff.)

Like Petals in a Storm (M, currently a standalone but working on a sequel; for @meldanya44): Between the discorporation and the almost-execution, Aziraphale’s having a bit of trouble keeping body and soul together. (My reputation-mandated 'one partner helps another bathe' fic.)

The Taste of Salt (G, one-shot; for @iamhisgloriouspurpose): The lingering taste of ox ribs are bitter and rich in Aziraphale's mouth, and he isn't sure what he believes anymore. (Continues the 'I'm not taking you to Hell, angel' scene in the Ep2 minisode. Nice and angsty. No one seems to like this one and I'm not sure why.)

Pipe Dream (G, one-shot; for @unwholesome-gay): All Aziraphale has ever wanted is to give heaven back to Crowley. (Domestic fluff about Aziraphale buying the South Downs cottage for Crowley. Fun fact: I struggled to write this and finally posted it in dismay and tried to forget about it. And then my inbox exploded with HEARTS, so I guess it wasn't as bad as I thought.)

The Patience of Angels, Chs 1-4 (M, multi-chapter WIP): An old enemy is on the hunt for the demon known as Crowley, and it will take all the powers of one very protective angel to save him. But in keeping Crowley safe, Aziraphale will uncover more of the terrible truths of Heaven than he ever wanted to know. (The longfic I first conceived of in 2019 and then never got around to finishing enough to post, and am now trying to revise the HELL out of in real-time because the original version doesn't work anymore. I love this fic with a burning passion and hope it finds an audience someday… which it probably will if I can update it, y'know, more often than once a month…)

Fics Posted: 8 Word Count: 28,182

I'm never going to be as prolific as I was when I was in the MCU fandom and had a much less-hectic job, but I'd call that a decent comeback. Thanks, everyone. ♥

[7-pines]

artisan item checklist

The amount of each artisan item you need to make. Artisan items are recursive (if you need to make juice and wine, it'll tell you to make 2 juices), but nothing else is (if someone loves a meal that involves an artisan item, it's not keeping track of that.) Loved items are included as "+1" for each person who loves it.

This is also made to be specific so when a recipe/crafting/offering calls for "Any ___" or "A or B", I picked the cheapest version of it to make. How things get replaced is under the Read More at the end.

3x Tulip honey [Bee house]: Apple pie, Assorted grilled platter, Jamu (Cooking)

1x Titan arum black honey [Bee house]: Rare Artisan (Offering)

8x Cheese [Cheese press]: Burrito, Eggplant lasagna, Gnocchi, Hawaiian pizza, Oven-baked risotto, Pizza, Summer burger, Sweet potato poutine (Cooking)

2x Syrup [Cheese press]: Es cendol, Es doger (Cooking)

1x Seaweed chips [Dehydrator]: Basic Artisan (Offering)

1x Large gesha coffee [Keg]: Loved by Aaliyah

2x Gesha coffee [Keg]: Loved by Aaliyah, Raj

3x Sake [Keg]: Fish soup (Cooking) Loved by Connor, Walter

7x Coffee [Keg]: Loved by Antonio, Emma, Giu, Groo, Joko, Raj, Randy

9x Green tea [Keg]: Kombucha (Artisan) Help Paul (Quest) Loved by Anne, Ben, Betty, Eleanor, Emma, Kenny, Raj

1x Cane nectar [Keg]: Loved by Erika

2x Cranberry juice [Keg]: Basic Artisan (Offering) Cranberry wine (Artisan)

1x Wool cloth [Loom]: Monster scarecrow (Crafting)

5x Cotton cloth [Loom]: Poci ghost scarecrow (Crafting) Kunti ghost scarecrow (Crafting) Ondel-ondel handsome scarecrow (Crafting) Ondel-ondel pretty scarecrow (Crafting) Loved by Emma

9x Butter [Mason jar]: Basic Artisan (Offering) Apple pie, Butter croissant, Cookies, Corn on the cob, Gnocchi, Minced jackfruit pie, Oven-baked risotto, Peanut butter (Cooking)

1x Kiracha sauce [Mason jar]: Vegan taco (Cooking)

2x Pickled corn [Mason jar]: Basic Artisan (Offering) Corn kimchi (Artisan)

3x Tempeh [Mason jar]: Fried tempeh, Herbed tempeh, Lodeh (Cooking)

4x Mayonnaise [Mayonnaise machine]: Basic Artisan (Offering) Fish taco, Rainbow sandwich (Cooking) Loved by Scott

4x Rice flour [Mill]: Es cendol, Klepon, Popiah, Serabi (Cooking)

10x Wheat flour [Mill]: Apple pie, Basil pesto pasta, Fruit tart, Pad thai, Peyek, Seafood ramen, Veggie ramen (Cooking) Gingerbread scarecrow (Crafting)

20x Amaranth flour [Mill]: Banana fritter, Bread, Butter croissant, Cauliflower casserole, Chocolate chip muffins, Cookies, Gnocchi, Hash browns, Hawaiian pizza, Kue kancing, Minced jackfruit pie, Mooncake, Pancakes, Pepper and mushroom flatbread, Pineapple upside-down cake, Pizza, Pumpkin pie, Red velvet cake, Spider tempura, Tortilla (Cooking)

11x Sugar [Mill]: Cenil, Donut, Egg custard, Fruit tart, Klepon, Kue kancing, Kue lapis, Pineapple upside-down cake, Pumpkin pie, Serabi (Cooking) Gingerbread scarecrow (Crafting)

4x Gourmet salt [Mill]: Herbed tempeh, Ketchup, Serabi, Spider tempura (Cooking)

3x White truffle oil [Oil press]: Rare Artisan (Offering) Loved by Alice, Connor

1x Black truffle oil [Oil press]: Loved by Alice

2x Almond oil [Oil press]: Loved by Alice, Emily

4x Olive oil [Oil press]: Hummus, Roasted mushroom (Cooking) Loved by Alice, Emily

11x Canola oil [Oil press]: Banana fritter, Beet chips, Donut, Falafel, Fried tempeh, Kale chips, Potato chips, Sauteed chard, Spider tempura, Sweet potato chips, Sweet potato poutine (Cooking)

1x Fermented goat cheese wheel [Aging barrel]: Rare Artisan (Offering)

1x Kombucha [Aging barrel]: Loved by Kenny

1x Artichoke kimchi [Aging barrel]: Loved by Anne

1x Corn kimchi [Aging barrel]: Rare Artisan (Offering)

1x Cranberry wine [Aging barrel]: Rare Artisan (Offering)

Replacements

These replacements only involve Cooking & Crafting, not Loved Items. So if someone loves Fruit Juice, that's not kept track of here.

Any flour -> Amaranth flour

Any oil -> Canola oil

Any cheese -> Cheese

Any butter -> Butter

Butter or Large butter -> Butter

Any honey -> Tulip honey

Any mayonnaise -> Mayonnaise

Any fruit juice -> Cranberry juice

Any wine -> Cranberry wine

Any pickle -> Pickled corn

Any kimchi -> Corn kimchi

Any dried scavengeables -> Seaweed chips

[caxycreations]

I was re-reading The Wolf's Den and that got me curious. Outside of Splitters and Ryder's usual, are there any other unique drinks in that universe you'd like to discuss?

Eikirian Salt-Wine.

Most wines irl age differently, with the best wines being between 40-150 years old, depending on type and method.

Eikirian Salt-Wine is made so that, when young (freshly made up to around a year or two) it's very tangy, with a hint of spice to it, and then slowly sweetens over time until it hits the "pivot point" at around 200 years (when it's considered "thoroughly aged", though it never loses the spice.

After the ~200 year mark it starts taking on a bitter, over-salted flavor, and starts to become less spicy.

So a person who prefers tangy and spicy can go to a store and buy a bottle of New-Brew (the common Ferusian nickname for fresh Eikirian Salt-Wine) for ~$20, cheaper because it's fresh and didn't take much to manufacture, while someone else may prefer the sweeter taste and buy a bottle of Artisan's Brew (common Ferusian nickname for the aged variant) for ~$50-$70 depending on the age.

And if someone prefers the bitter, over-salted flavor, they can buy Hag's Brew (Ferusian nickname for over-aged) for $30-$35.

Despite the longer aging time, Hag's Brew is cheaper because it's got a much lower demand, but still more than the demand for New-Brew.

Side note about these: Eikirians invented Salt-Wine after Erit Frenza, a Dragon serving as a Dornumite diplomat, brought Heavusian wine to a conference between Eikirian and Dornumite nobles and explained the method of making it at the request of the Eikirian nobility.

While a lot of it was impossible for Eikirians, they developed a system of fermentation that worked well under the seas, and after centuries of refining it and improving their craft, Eikirian Salt-Wine is vastly more popular than the Heavusian stuff.

Though Heavusian drinks do still hold greater popularity in most cases, like the Splitters for example. The Eikirians just do wine better.

[paramedicabroad]

Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou

The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou stands proudly on a hill along the Ounila River, a striking sight with its terracotta-colored walls blending harmoniously with the surrounding desert landscape. The word "ksar" refers to a group of earthen buildings enclosed within defensive walls, and Ait-Ben-Haddou is the most famous and best-preserved example of this ancient form of settlement in southern Morocco.

In 1987, the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, acknowledging its cultural and historical importance, as well as its extraordinary earthen architecture. The site is a testament to Morocco’s ancient trade routes, traditional construction methods, and the resilience of its desert communities. The ksar continues to be a source of inspiration and fascination for travelers and historians alike.

This UNESCO World Heritage site has been around for centuries—since the 11th century, to be exact. It served as a crucial stop on the ancient trans-Saharan trade route, where merchants would rest, trade, and shelter from the harsh desert conditions as they traveled between Marrakesh and the Sahara, bringing goods such as salt, gold, and ivory.

The architecture of Ait-Ben-Haddou is a stunning example of pre-Saharan construction, using a mixture of clay, straw, and wood. Its mud-brick towers, intricately decorated facades, and narrow, winding streets give the ksar a unique, fortress-like appearance. Walking through its ancient alleyways feels like stepping back in time, with every turn offering a glimpse of Morocco's rich past.

Ait-Ben-Haddou’s otherworldly charm hasn’t gone unnoticed by Hollywood. Over the years, it has been featured in numerous blockbuster films and TV shows. From "Gladiator" to "Game of Thrones", this ksar has doubled as ancient cities and far-off fantasy lands. As you wander through its dusty streets, it’s easy to see why directors are drawn to its timeless beauty.

At the top of the ksar, you’ll find the granary, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding desert and the nearby Atlas Mountains. This climb is well worth the effort, especially at sunset, when the red hues of the buildings and landscape glow under the setting sun. It’s one of those moments that will leave you speechless, feeling as though you’re on the edge of the world.

While many of the families that once lived within the ksar have since moved to more modern homes across the river, a few still remain, keeping the traditions and history of the ksar alive. As you explore the narrow streets and shaded courtyards, you might come across local artisans selling their handmade crafts or invite you to visit one of the small shops housed in the ksar's ancient walls.

Visiting Ait-Ben-Haddou is like discovering a hidden treasure in the middle of the desert. It’s about a four-hour drive from Marrakesh, making it a perfect day trip if you’re exploring the Atlas Mountains or heading toward the Sahara. The ksar’s location on the edge of the desert only adds to its mystique, offering visitors a chance to see a different side of Morocco—one that’s steeped in history and tradition.🏛️⛰️🇲🇦

[ffxiv-swarm]

prompt 16: third-rate

On one hand, the goods coming out of Tural were generally well-crafted and Portia was increasingly glad she’d taken the trip across the salt. She was learning so much. Especially now, after that business with Alexandria and their electrope which she’d honestly needed explained in very small words but was turning out to be a real boon for everyone involved now that the batshite crazy rulers of Tural’s new neighbor had been put down. (Shards? Reflections? Rejoinings? Way above her pay grade. The idea that there were entire different dimensions out there besides the Void and the First had taken half a pack of contemplatively smoked cigarettes to get through. She was endlessly grateful Solus—sorry, Emet-Selch—had never told Varis about that shite. And now there was a separate dimension permanently grafted onto their own? She understood why people did drugs.)

Anyway, the Alexandrian and Turali wares were great. She loved them. Whether they were elaborately woven Hanuhanu baskets or Mamool Ja pottery or even Alexandrian machinery—especially Alexandrian machinery, though the reliance on electrope really wasn’t replicable by the average crafter so she couldn’t exactly sit down and start churning out the same shite, not everyone had Scion gil, Gantsetseg—she could learn new techniques and forge new connections just by sitting in Wachumeqimeqi for half a bell without even picking up a hammer.

On the other hand, some of the supposed bespoke artisans—the Moblins’ “potsworn” in particular—were, well...

She glanced at Rral Soj. Rral Soj did not look at her.

“You know what I’m going to say.”

“She just works so hard,” the Xbr’aal woman muttered.

Portia took a long drag on her cigarette to forestall her first and second responses, and settled on her third. “She’s not nearly up to scratch, and you can’t afford to get her up to scratch if you still wanna make rent on this stall and keep your orders flowing. She’s a nice kid, but she’s not the kind of worker you need.”

“She could be.”

Portia grimaced. Rral Soj wasn’t wrong—Papawni could be a great metalworker. She was apparently a master goldsmith already. If she somehow had unlimited time, she could probably create masterpieces. But the shop didn’t have unlimited time, and she was entirely too focused on making things pretty when they needed to be functional. And, more to the point, if Portia had to watch the girl spend bells trying to make the curve on a scythe’s haft just right instead of finishing the damn thing and moving on to the next in the literal pile they were all trying to finish before sunset she was going to strangle her.

And of course, she thought grimly, I can’t bloody tell her she’s a fucking idiot, because then she’ll cry and I’ll be the bad guy.

She blew out a plume of smoke and muttered, “Well, she’s not yet, and that’s the problem, isn’t it? We’re workin’ harder than you did by your lonesome pickin’ up her slack.”

Rral Soj stared out across the bustling market. Then, wordlessly, she held out a hand for a cigarette.

[shahahsanpoetry]

Buried Between Silk and Stone

Would you, with your hands enameled with the sheen of artisanal virtuosity, weave the jagged, wool-spun threads of my being only to pauperize the velvety silk of your desire?

Would you, take my rough-hewn anthracite diction, dark as coal, and thread them one by one, deliberately and deftly knotting them with the pearls of your speech as if the chain you crafted was not for a Duchess of yesteryear, but for the timeless phantoms of who we might yet become?

Would you wrap yourself around me, like kelp coiling tight around an otter, holding fast as the salt-swollen surge of the Pacific and its effervescence whirl around us, threatening to heave us weightless into the deep-blue void?

Would you, thrash and tumble, with me under a sky-blue surf as our bodies roll along the ocean floor and polish the jagged edges of the pebbles beneath us as we foxtrot across the petrous canvas of our restless romance?

[hurpdurpburps]

Life doesn't get much better than a great scotch and an even better book on a quiet Saturday night.

I was recommended this novella called This Is How You Lose The Time War, and I simply have no words to describe the profound shock and awe that permeated every cell of my being as I devoured line after line of caustic rivalry-turned-saccharine yearning and THE CRAZIEST TIME LOOP EVER cleverly and delicately spun into existence like some literary artisanal cashmere cardigan.

"Writing is a craft" has never felt truer.

I played Aimer softy in the background as I read start-to-finish in the span of three hours and the experience was simply indescribable.

ALSO, since this was also my first weekend off in 6 weeks with absolutely nothing on my to-do list, I grabbed the opportunity to go Full Cooking Mama.

Got some off cuts for real cheap at the Japanese supermarket next to my office (yay for working in Japantown).

Amazing how $30 kept me fed for three full days.

Started the weekend with a pork jowl and kimchi stir-fry, along with kimbap my sister made the day before that I didn't get to eat since work was being ridiculous as always.

Had a friend come over for dinner in the evening so I made beef fat fried rice and salmon tofu miso soup. I'd kept the rendered lard from the pork jowl earlier in the day to fry the eggs as well. So I guess it's pork and beef fat fried rice lol.

Started Sunday with some thinly-sliced beef tongue lightly grilled with sesame oil and salt over rice, and the last of the salmon tofu miso soup.

Monday lunch was some kinda quasi-kasu udon-esque random invention. I cut up the last of the beef into small pieces, then gently sautéed them in a dry pan until the fat rendered and sinew turned soft, lightly seasoned with white pepper, salt and shichimi. Then I added a chanko nabe dashi capsule, water, and frozen sanuki udon that I'd softened on the side with boiling water. Finished with a lightly poached egg on top.

Was SO GOOD. I had both sanuki and inaniwa udon in my freezer and I'm glad I went with the former. Since sanuki udon was thick and chewy, I thought it could stand up to the robustness of the broth and the simmering. I was right.

NGL this might become a staple in my diet. One of the things I miss most about living in Japan is getting to eat kasu udon whenever I want, and for some unfortunate reason it seems like no one outside of Northeast Asia has come to realise the beauty that is fried beef tripe.

The sweet scent of roasted beef fat and the slight chewiness of the simmered sinew was close enough to trigger fond memories of chowing down on midnight kasu udon in my tiny Tokyo studio that I'd tucked away in some distant corner of my lizard brain.

Too bad I didn't take a photo of the finished product since I was too hungry. Maybe next time.

[benjaminalphabet]

something sparkling and iridescent used to master my body and soul;

and i was a beautiful monster, all my glittering worst intentions brought everyone to their knees.

i am worship-worthy when my words mean nothing,

emotionless and empathetic, my sweet little serpent could make everything mine.

manipulative, maladaptive, malicious;

a liar always out for blood.

i was powerful when i slept in other’s clothes, and bedsheets, and dreamscapes.

i used to be in control.

faith and devotion are ugly things;

they come out of the woodwork like spiders, wrap themselves around your throat, and suddenly your poisoned words don’t drip like honey anymore.

always smooth, like whiskey, with a bitter aftertaste that demands attention.

i’m an artisanal, crafted, acquired taste.

my devourer deflated, served over ice, and now she is something weaker.

now it is me who sips this molotov cocktail,

and the honest version of me was never prepared for this.

i am a lovely politician. in my words are palaces, utopias, promises that could never come true.

i can never follow through.

the angels punish me mercilessly,

karmic justice, the scales tipped away from me, and balance is returned to the cosmos

when i lose everything.

love and loneliness sneak in during the dead of night, and notice how you do not crave these touches the way you crave others;

even if they are gentle, though they rarely are.

i have never been gentle with anyone,

i’m a real tough cowboy clairvoyant, a known cowboy killer;

but still, i always feel let down when these men show up drunkenly to my door holding pistols and bouquets in both hands.

they treat me like something threatening, the death before rebirth,

they pray to me like they really believe i can save them, as if i ever could even if i wanted to.

i let them worship at my feet and i promise them a better life just to keep them talking.

they’ve all heard i’m a fake, a con artistic magic saboteur, but they’re still always angry when my gorgeous prophecies never come true.

i let them crucify me, i accept the consequences of my actions,

and i wonder if the revenge is thick and warm filling up the cores of them; like how for a moment they were in mine.

eventually i must admit to this bad behavior without the warm comforting blanket of demonic possession to hold on tight to.

old habits die in the fetal position with their aching heads clutched between their hands.

i spend most nights on my knees at the end of my bed, whispering in tongues,

from a distance i make a sweet picture of prayer, but these incantations i mutter are something much more sinister.

i beg for forgiveness, i beg god to be real,

i apologize and repent,

i ask for a thief’s admittance into heaven.

i do everything the devil is not supposed to do.

i try to be good.

addiction is broken in the dead of winter,

the desolate times, some time during the forty waking nights in a waterless desert -

addiction can only be truly broken when you need your vices the most.

the nights i am touched the most ferociously, i wake up in tears, i face the morning with shame.

when i am alone i am despondent, and depressed, and there is hardly anything that can save me.

i have these pearls in my mouth, and they taste sweet to everyone but me.

my words are sickly, syrupy, and sticky but they are empty, devoid of sustenance or nutrition.

my lovers leave begging for more, and i pile their malnourished open mouths in a moat outside my door and hope they just die quiety.

i don’t want to listen anymore.

most of them they die without legacy,

i forget them easily and they cease to have ever existed once i take the baptism seriously;

cleansed from them in the salt bath,

and all their love for me was fake and all for nothing in the end.

i am selfish, i am lonely,

i want to be left alone, i want anyone to see me.

something sparkling and iridescent used to master my body and soul;

and i was a beautiful monster, all my glittering worst intentions brought everyone to their knees.

something uglier rules me now,

good intentions, white knuckles,

a reach for intimacy in the middle of nowhere.

i am so disassociated i swear i have been speaking a language long dead.

i am not fully of this world, nor am i fully in it.

my faith is mercurial at its best, fickle at its weakest.

my own devotion is cracked like marble that has been shattered and put back together by well meaning restorative hands.

they do their best, but i am no pride of Michelangelo.

i am not Aphrodite

or one of her loving devotees.

i am somewhere outside of that,

like offerings left on alters - i am the rose petals left in her wake.

i am the flames from pink candles, longing to set the whole world ablaze.

i am a goddess’s aftermath, discarded scraps, the wax hardening after the ritual ends, going cold.

i am going cold.

i am not Aphrodite, i am the irrational price she pays.

i have been reformed too many times,

rewritten, reeled in, reinvented,

and still misinterpreted.

i have no confessions, i have no guilt,

i have always loved that fatal, iridescent, irredeemable monster more than i loved the pure white parts of me.

i am virginal in so many secret ways.

i have always known that only one of them can survive, but i have never known which one will prove to be stronger.

4.21.24 || self fulfilling prophecy

[mansipatel5]

Exploring the Treasures of Bhuj; Discovering the Vibrant District of Kutch

Located in the westernmost region of India, Gujarat is a state that seamlessly combines the best of tradition and modernity. Bhuj, the capital of Kutch district exemplifies this blend. Beyond its importance, Bhuj presents a vibrant tapestry of experiences. From discovering architecture, to indulging in local delicacies and immersing oneself in the genuine warmth of traditional Kutchi hospitality there's something, for everyone.

History and Heritage:

Bhuj boasts a rich history that unfolds through its historical sites and architectural wonders. The iconic Aina Mahal, or "Hall of Mirrors," is a must-visit. Built-in the 18th century, this palace is a marvel of Indo-European architecture, adorned with intricate mirror work, beautiful paintings, and a stunning Durbar Hall. The Prag Mahal, adjacent to the Aina Mahal, is another architectural gem with its Italian Gothic influences. A stroll through the narrow lanes of Bhuj reveals centuries-old buildings, each narrating tales of the region's cultural heritage.

Gujarat:

If you're looking for an experience staying at home, Gujarat offers a special chance to fully engage yourself in the local lifestyle. It doesn't matter if you're traveling alone with a partner or as a family selecting a homestay can be a way to connect with the culture and traditions of the area. The friendly and welcoming nature of Gujarati families ensures that your stay will be unforgettable allowing you to enjoy delicacies and have conversations that offer insights, into the local way of life.

Homestays in Bhuj:

Bhuj, being a hub of culture and history, offers a range of homestay options that cater to different preferences. From traditional homes with courtyards exuding a rustic charm to modern setups with all the amenities, there's something for everyone. A walk through the narrow lanes of Bhuj may lead you to charming homestays tucked away from bustling city life, providing a serene escape while still being close to the main attractions.

Traditional Kutchh Courtyard Homestay:

For an authentic experience that reflects the essence of Kutchi culture, consider staying in a Kutchh Courtyard. These homestays often feature traditional architecture, with courtyards adorned with vibrant textiles and intricate artwork. Guests can enjoy the luxury of a personalized touch, experiencing the warmth of the hosts and participating in activities that showcase the region's traditional crafts and customs.

Local Cuisine:

No visit to Bhuj is complete without indulging in its delectable cuisine. From the famous Kutchi Dabeli, a spicy and flavorful street food, to the sumptuous Thali meals that showcase a variety of regional dishes, the local culinary scene is a true delight for food enthusiasts. Homestays often serve traditional Gujarati meals, allowing guests to savor authentic flavors prepared with love and care.

Exploring the Great Rann of Kutch:

The Great Rann of Kutch, a vast expanse of white salt desert, is a short drive from Bhuj and a must-visit destination. The stark beauty of the salt flats against the clear blue sky is a sight to behold, especially during the annual Rann Utsav when the desert comes alive with cultural performances, traditional crafts, and a festive atmosphere. Staying in Bhuj allows easy access to this natural wonder and the opportunity to witness the unique nomadic life of the local communities.

Arts and Crafts: Bhuj is a haven for art and craft enthusiasts. The region is renowned for its skilled artisans who create exquisite handcrafted items, including intricately embroidered textiles, vibrant Kutchi handicrafts, and beautiful silver jewelry. Visitors can explore local markets and workshops to witness the craftsmanship firsthand and even purchase souvenirs to take home a piece of Kutchh Courtyard Homestay's artistic legacy.

To sum up, Bhuj provides an enriching experience that extends beyond its importance. From discovering marvels to indulging in local delicacies and immersing yourself in the welcoming traditional Kutchi hospitality visiting Bhuj guarantees an unforgettable adventure. You might want to consider staying at a homestay to add a touch to your accommodation and make sure not to overlook the opportunity to uncover the treasures of Kutch's vibrant district.

[shamandrummer]

The Drum Makers of Cochiti Pueblo

Brothers Carlos and Tomas Herrera, along with their father, Theodore "Arnold" Herrera, of Cochiti Pueblo, produce some of the most sought-after drums in the Native American craft world today. Drummers from all 19 of New Mexico's Pueblo communities come to Cochiti to purchase these drums, which are still made according to ancient practices. Over the years, the Herreras' craft has taken them from Guadalajara, Mexico, to Washington, D.C., for the Smithsonian Institution's Folklife Festival.

While Carlos, an environmental scientist, does drum-making in his free time, Tomas recently left the home construction business to focus full-time on making drums. To find the materials for the perfect drum, the brothers wander riverbanks looking for cottonwood boughs and trek into the mountains to collect recently dead aspen logs. Being a relatively soft wood, aspen is not only easier to hollow out, compared with other woods, it also emits a soft reverberation. Cottonwood, having similarly desirous properties, is often used for the large drums that the Herreras make for Plains Indian powwow groups.

While a drum has only a few parts, the process of making one is not simple. The multiple steps include aging the logs, cutting them to length, and removing the interior wood, a process for which the Herreras use homemade chisels culled from heavy metal scraps. Then, after preparing rawhide for the drum's head, a lengthy process in itself, the Herreras stretch the rawhide, secure it to the drum with sinew, and do whatever trimming is needed. These steps alone can take up to 16 hours, and that's before they've gotten to painting the drum, or making the drumsticks.

While plenty of other Native Americans make drums, Carlos says that their use of ancient, traditional methods for turning an animal hide into a drum head "is something that sets us apart." Today, he says, most drum makers use harsh chemicals, which dry out the hides and make them brittle. The method the Herreras' practice allows their hides to retain some of their original fat and oils, which Carlos says keeps them supple for decades.

To accomplish this feat, the Herreras bury their hides, which are sometimes made from elk skins but usually from cowhide, in damp earth for a week or two. They then remove the hair, using old metal files, and degrease the inside, which will still be covered with a lot of fat. To finish the hide, they never use salts, preservatives, or any other special treatment; by the time the hide is fully dry, it has been transformed into odor-free, resonant rawhide.

This whole process was passed onto the Herreras from their father, and their grandfather before him. "Even with the knowledge base we have, we struggle at times in getting the hides just right," Carlos says. "There's a lot we don't have control over. Every hide is different, and this is one of the biggest challenges we face. The drying process of the rawhide is out of our control. We can do everything right -- log selection, the carving, the hide preparation, and stretching it with the proper tension. Then maybe the humidity changes or the air pressure, and it loses its tone. At that point, the only option is to remove the leather and begin again with a new hide. We always have to wait until a drum is perfectly dry to find out if it works."

"To try to ensure success, we always reach out to my grandpa's spirit and ask him for his help," Carlos says. "We say a little prayer to the spirits to help guide us."

To learn more about Cochiti artisans, read "Storytellers and Drums," an excerpt from my memoir Riding Spirit Horse.

[todaylivematch]

Top 10 trending foods in USA

Here are some trending foods in the US that you will love. We will discuss in detail about the trending foods through this post and talk about the quality of

Below is a list of 10 trending foods in the United States

Avocado toast

Plant-based meat alternatives

Poke bowls

Gourmet burgers

Artisanal pizzas

Craft beer

Korean barbecue

Ramen

Street tacos

Cold brew coffee 

Avocado toast 

Avocado toast is a simple and popular breakfast or brunch dish in the United States. It typically consists of mashed avocado spread on top of a slice of toasted bread, often sourdough or whole wheat, and seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes lemon juice.

Additional toppings may include sliced tomatoes, microgreens, feta cheese, bacon, or a poached egg. The dish has gained popularity in recent years due to the rise in popularity of avocados, which are a nutrient-dense fruit rich in healthy fats and fiber. Avocado toast is also often marketed as a healthy and easy meal option for people with busy lifestyles.

Plant-based meat alternatives

Plant-based meat alternatives are food products designed to mimic the taste, texture, and appearance of traditional meat products, but made entirely from plant-based ingredients. They have become increasingly popular in the United States as more people adopt vegan, vegetarian, and flexitarian diets, and as concerns grow about the environmental and ethical impact of animal agriculture.

Some popular plant-based meat alternatives in the US include Beyond Meat, Impossible Foods, and Lightlife. These products are made using a variety of ingredients such as pea protein, soy protein, wheat gluten, and beet juice, which are processed and combined to create a meat-like texture and flavor.

Plant-based meat alternatives are often marketed as a healthier, more sustainable, and more ethical alternative to traditional meat. They are also popular among consumers who are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, as animal agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. While plant-based meat alternatives are not necessarily healthier than traditional meat, they do offer a viable alternative for those who are looking to reduce their meat intake without sacrificing taste or convenience.

Poke bowls 

Poke bowls are a popular Hawaiian dish that has become increasingly popular in the United States in recent years. They typically consist of cubes of raw fish, usually tuna or salmon, served over a base of rice or salad greens, and topped with various vegetables, sauces, and seasonings.

The term “poke” means “to slice” in Hawaiian, and the dish is believed to have originated in Hawaii as a way for fishermen to use up the less desirable parts of their catch. Today, poke bowls have evolved into a trendy and healthy meal option, and can be found in many restaurants and food trucks across the US.

Poke bowls are often customizable, with many different variations available. Some popular ingredients include avocado, seaweed, cucumber, edamame, and spicy mayo sauce. Poke bowls are often marketed as a healthy and fresh option, as they typically feature high-quality, nutrient-dense ingredients such as fish and vegetables. They can also be a good source of protein and healthy fats, making them a popular meal option among health-conscious consumers.

Artisanal pizzas

Artisanal pizzas are pizzas that are made by skilled craftspeople using high-quality, fresh, and often locally-sourced ingredients. These pizzas are typically hand-crafted, with attention paid to every detail, from the crust to the toppings. Artisanal pizza makers may use traditional techniques, such as wood-fired ovens, to give the pizzas a unique, authentic flavor.

Artisanal pizzas are often associated with the “farm-to-table” movement, which emphasizes the use of locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients. The toppings on artisanal pizzas can vary widely, from classic margherita with fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil, to more innovative combinations such as smoked salmon and cream cheese, or roasted vegetables with goat cheese.

In recent years, artisanal pizza has become increasingly popular, with many restaurants and pizzerias offering their own unique takes on this classic dish. Some artisanal pizzerias have even gained national and international recognition for their high-quality, innovative pizzas.

Craft beer

Craft beer is a type of beer that is brewed in small batches using traditional brewing methods and high-quality ingredients, often sourced locally. Craft beer is typically produced by independent breweries that are small in scale, with a focus on producing unique and flavorful beers that offer a departure from the mass-produced beers that dominate the market.

The craft beer movement began in the 1970s and has since grown into a major industry, with thousands of independent breweries operating around the world. These breweries often experiment with different ingredients, brewing techniques, and flavor profiles to create beers that appeal to a wide range of tastes.

Craft beer is known for its wide variety of styles, ranging from hoppy IPAs and rich stouts to tart sours and crisp lagers. Many craft breweries also offer limited edition or seasonal beers, often made with unique or unusual ingredients, to keep their offerings fresh and exciting.

The popularity of craft beer has also given rise to beer tourism, with many breweries offering tours and tastings for visitors. Craft beer festivals and events have also become popular, with beer lovers gathering to sample different brews and celebrate the art of craft brewing.

Top 10 trending foods in USA

Korean barbecue

Korean barbecue, also known as “gogi-gui” in Korean, is a popular style of Korean cuisine that involves grilling meat, typically beef, pork, or chicken, at the table. The meat is usually marinated in a sweet and savory sauce before being grilled, and it is often accompanied by various side dishes such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, and rice.

Korean barbecue is typically cooked on a grill or griddle that is built into the table, allowing diners to cook the meat themselves and enjoy it hot off the grill. It is a social and interactive dining experience, as everyone at the table takes part in cooking and sharing the food.

Some of the most popular types of Korean barbecue meat include bulgogi (thinly sliced beef marinated in a soy sauce-based marinade), galbi (beef short ribs marinated in a sweet and savory sauce), and samgyeopsal (thick slices of pork belly). Other types of meat, such as chicken, duck, and seafood, can also be cooked in this style.

Korean barbecue has become increasingly popular around the world, and there are now many Korean barbecue restaurants that serve this delicious and flavorful cuisine.

Ramen

Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup dish that has become popular around the world. It typically consists of Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a savory broth that is often made with meat or fish, soy sauce, miso paste, and other seasonings. Ramen can be served in a variety of styles, such as shoyu (soy sauce-based), shio (salt-based), tonkotsu (pork bone-based), and miso (soybean paste-based), each with its unique flavor profile.

Ramen is usually served with a variety of toppings, such as sliced pork, boiled egg, green onions, and nori seaweed, although toppings can vary depending on the regional or personal preference. It is also common to add garlic, chili oil, or other condiments to adjust the flavor to taste.

Ramen is enjoyed both in casual settings, such as food stalls, as well as in more formal restaurants. It is a popular comfort food in Japan and has gained a following worldwide, with many Ramen shops opening up in major cities.

Street tacos

Street tacos are a popular type of taco commonly found in Mexico and in Mexican-American communities in the United States. They are typically served on soft corn tortillas and filled with a variety of grilled or roasted meats, such as beef, pork, chicken, or shrimp, as well as vegetables.

The meat is often marinated with a variety of spices and seasonings, and then grilled over an open flame or on a griddle, giving it a smoky and slightly charred flavor. Common toppings for street tacos include chopped onions, cilantro, avocado, and a squeeze of lime, although the toppings can vary depending on the region or personal preference.

Street tacos are often served in a casual outdoor setting, such as food trucks or outdoor markets, and are usually sold at an affordable price. They are a favorite of many people for their portability and ease of eating on the go, as well as their delicious and authentic flavors.

Cold brew coffee

Cold brew coffee is a type of coffee that is brewed with cold or room temperature water, rather than hot water. The process of making cold brew coffee involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period of time, usually between 12 and 24 hours, which allows the coffee to slowly infuse into the water, creating a rich and smooth flavor.

Cold brew coffee is typically less bitter and acidic than hot-brewed coffee, which makes it appealing to many people who find hot coffee too harsh or acidic. It is also served cold or over ice, which makes it a refreshing and popular drink during the summer months.

Cold brew coffee can be made using a variety of coffee beans, including light, medium, and dark roast. The coffee can be enjoyed black or with milk, cream, or sugar added to taste.

Cold brew coffee has become increasingly popular in recent years and is now commonly available at coffee shops and cafes around the world, as well as being available in pre-made bottles and cans in grocery stores.

[switrusholidays]

Discovering the Hidden Gems of Europe in a Group Tour with Switrus Holidays

Europe’s famous landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower, Colosseum, and Buckingham Palace, are awe-inspiring, but there’s another side to Europe waiting to be discovered. Switrus Holidays brings you unique Europe tour packages from Bangalore, offering a deep dive into lesser-known yet equally captivating destinations. These hidden gems add a special charm to your Europe tour, providing unforgettable experiences beyond the typical tourist spots.

Why Choose Switrus Holidays for Exploring Europe’s Hidden Gems?

Switrus Holidays is known for its thoughtfully designed Europe tour packages, with departures from Bangalore and other major cities. Our tours are carefully planned to include both classic highlights and off-the-beaten-path destinations, allowing travelers to see Europe’s famous sights and discover unique local culture and beauty.

With Switrus Holidays, you get:

Experienced Guides: Our knowledgeable guides have extensive expertise, bringing stories and insights about Europe’s hidden treasures.

Seamless Group Travel: With Switrus Holidays, group travel is a stress-free experience, covering all logistics and giving you more time to enjoy the journey.

Affordable Packages: By joining a group tour, you’ll enjoy lower costs while still experiencing high-quality accommodations, dining, and activities.

Hidden European Destinations to Discover on Your Group Tour

Here are some of Europe’s lesser-known, breathtaking spots included in Switrus Holidays’ Europe tour packages:

1. Sintra, Portugal – A Fairytale Escape

Nestled in the hills of Portugal, Sintra is a magical town full of whimsical palaces, ancient castles, and lush gardens:

Pena Palace: With its bright colors and fairytale architecture, this palace seems straight out of a storybook. It’s one of Europe’s most unique landmarks.

Moorish Castle: Offering panoramic views over Sintra and beyond, this ancient castle is both a historic treasure and a stunning photography spot.

Sintra’s Old Town: Explore the charming streets lined with artisan shops, cafes, and pastel-colored houses, ideal for a quiet, authentic experience away from crowded tourist sites.

2. Hallstatt, Austria – Alpine Serenity

The charming village of Hallstatt is an idyllic setting in the Austrian Alps, offering a tranquil escape:

Lake Hallstatt: Reflecting the surrounding mountains, this serene lake provides breathtaking views and opportunities for boat rides.

Salt Mines: Explore one of the world’s oldest salt mines, with guided tours that delve into Hallstatt’s 7,000-year history of salt production.

Market Square: With colorful houses, quaint shops, and cafes, the town’s central square is a picturesque spot perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

3. Giethoorn, Netherlands – The Venice of the North

A hidden gem in the Netherlands, Giethoorn is a peaceful village without roads, offering a scenic experience:

Canal Cruises: Instead of streets, Giethoorn has picturesque canals that you can explore by boat, gliding past charming cottages and vibrant gardens.

Biking Trails: Rent a bike and explore the town and its surroundings on scenic trails that lead you through the countryside.

Local Museums: Small museums around town showcase local crafts, history, and culture, giving you insight into this unique way of life.

4. Ronda, Spain – Cliffside Beauty

Built dramatically above a deep gorge, Ronda is a spectacular Andalusian town that has inspired writers and artists for centuries:

Puente Nuevo Bridge: This iconic bridge spans the Tajo Gorge, offering stunning views of the town and countryside below.

Historic Bullring: Ronda’s Plaza de Toros is one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, offering tours that delve into Spanish culture and tradition.

Arab Baths: Discover the remains of ancient Moorish baths, a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Benefits of Choosing a Group Tour for Exploring Hidden Gems

Exploring lesser-known destinations in Europe is easier and safer with Switrus Holidays’ group tours. Here’s why:

Curated Itineraries: Our expert planners ensure that hidden destinations fit smoothly into your travel schedule without missing out on classic highlights.

Local Insights: Switrus Holidays’ guides are experienced and knowledgeable, offering insights and stories about Europe’s hidden gems that add depth to your visit.

Safety and Convenience: With all logistics handled by our team, you can focus on enjoying each destination without worrying about navigating unfamiliar places.

Affordable Europe Tour Packages from Bangalore

Switrus Holidays offers a range of affordable Europe tour packages from Bangalore that balance classic European highlights with unique, hidden destinations. By choosing a group tour, you benefit from collective discounts, expert guidance, and an organized itinerary that brings you the best of Europe while staying within budget.

Our packages include:

Comfortable Accommodations: Stay in well-reviewed hotels that provide both comfort and easy access to major sites.

Local Transportation: Move seamlessly from one destination to the next with pre-arranged transport.

Guided Tours and Excursions: Gain deeper insights into each location with guided tours led by knowledgeable professionals.

Flexible Departures: With group departures from Bangalore, you’ll be able to start your Europe tour conveniently and travel with like-minded explorers.

What to Expect from a Group Tour of Europe’s Hidden Gems

Authentic Experiences: While Europe’s popular sights are incredible, the hidden gems allow for a more authentic connection with local culture and nature.

Picturesque Views: From scenic lakes to dramatic cliffs, these hidden spots offer some of Europe’s most beautiful, untouched landscapes.

Fewer Crowds: Unlike popular tourist spots, Europe’s hidden gems allow you to explore at a leisurely pace without large crowds, making it a relaxing experience.

Plan Your European Adventure with Switrus Holidays

Embark on a journey to discover Europe’s hidden gems with Switrus Holidays. Our Europe tour packages offer a balance of classic sites and lesser-known destinations, creating a rich, diverse travel experience. With group departures available from Bangalore and other major cities, it’s easier than ever to join a Europe group tour that includes both iconic attractions and Europe’s best-kept secrets.

Ready to explore the hidden side of Europe? Contact Switrus Holidays today to book your spot on one of our Europe tour packages. Experience the charm of Paris, the beauty of Hallstatt, the serenity of Sintra, and more, all in one incredible journey.

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Crafting Excellence: The Rise of Cornish Vodka in British Spirits

Cornish vodka has become a celebrated spirit in recent years, standing alongside Cornwall’s renowned gin and whiskey. Distillers in this historic region have redefined the British vodka landscape, merging traditional practices with Cornwall’s unique character. With an emphasis on quality, creativity, and sustainability, Cornish vodka offers a distinct flavor profile that has captured the attention of connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.

At the heart of Cornish vodka’s appeal is the region’s dedication to craft. Cornwall is known for its artisanal approach to food and drink, and vodka distillers have embraced this spirit of innovation. Many producers focus on using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, such as Cornish potatoes or organic grains, and pure water drawn from local aquifers. The clean, mineral-rich water is thought to contribute to the smoothness and depth of the spirit, creating vodka that is both refined and flavorful.

The production process itself is a point of pride for Cornish distilleries. Some producers rely on copper stills, which have been used for centuries in traditional distillation and are known for their ability to remove impurities while enhancing the character of the spirit. Distillers carefully control the temperature and pressure throughout the process, ensuring each batch meets their high standards. The result is smooth, crisp vodka with a complex, balanced taste, often carrying subtle notes of vanilla, citrus, or earthy undertones that reflect the natural environment of Cornwall.

Sustainability also plays a significant role in the Cornish vodka scene. With a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, many distilleries implement eco-friendly practices, such as recycling waste materials, using renewable energy, and even repurposing by-products from the distillation process. For example, some distilleries have created circular processes, where potato waste or spent grains are transformed into biofuel or animal feed, supporting local agriculture and reducing environmental impact. This eco-conscious approach appeals to consumers who prioritize sustainability in their purchasing choices, adding another layer of appeal to Cornish vodka.

The popularity of Botanical Vodka has also benefited from resurgence in craft cocktail culture. Bartenders and mixologists across the UK and beyond are drawn to the distinct flavors and smooth textures of Cornish vodka, using it as a base for creative cocktails that highlight the spirit’s natural qualities. The vodka’s versatility shines in both classic and modern cocktails, from refreshing Moscow Mules to signature drinks featuring local ingredients like Cornish sea salt or elderflower.

With its commitment to quality, sustainability, and unique flavors, Original vodka is more than just a regional spirit; it is a celebration of Cornwall’s heritage and environment. As it continues to gain recognition, Cornish vodka represents a refined yet approachable choice for vodka enthusiasts, proving that exceptional vodka can be made outside the usual European powerhouses. The rise of Cornish vodka marks a new chapter in British spirits, blending tradition with innovation and capturing the essence of Cornwall in every bottle.