I also get to try local foods at the market for lunch, such as different pastries and meats. Notably, Swiss stores also use a system called the Nutri-Score, which ranks a food's healthiness with color grades, making it easier to make healthy choices at a glance. Of course, sometimes I still go for a pastry or some chocolate—balance is key!
Switzerland even celebrates its food with festivals! Recently, I went to a cow festival, where I saw Swiss sausages and enjoyed more fondue. And, of course, I have to mention Swiss chocolate—rich, creamy, and one of the best chocolates in the world, but I have to admit I am not a chocolate fan so I rarely partake in this treat.
Despite the availability of good food, the Swiss food and lifestyle is expensive. Therefore, sometimes I save my money by taking some of my host mom's delicious food to school for lunch.
Moroccan Flavors: Spice, Warmth and Community - A Home Away from Home
During my program, I had the chance to visit Morocco, where food is full of spices and flavors that bring people together in cooking and sharing of the plate. In my homestay, I got to make couscous, a famous Moroccan dish with veggies, chicken and grains. It’s a balanced meal, full of flavors that remind you of home-cooked food.
Another favorite dish of mine was tagine, which is a mix of chicken and spices cooked in a pot that is also called a tagine. There are many different types of tagines, with different proteins and vegetables. We ate it almost every day, and I never got tired of it! Sharing food in Morocco was special; often, we’d eat together from one big plate.