“Pray for a good harvest, but keep on hoeing.”
– Slovenian Proverb

This old Slovenian proverb teaches a clear lesson: it is the work we put into life that ultimately leads to the “good harvest.” We must roll up our sleeves and put in the hard hours and back breaking labor. There’s simply no escaping it.

Case in point: Slovenia is known for her comforting food, seemingly plucked straight from the countryside, but much goes into the effort, whether it be the extra fancy, ornate Pleteno Srce bread, or the slowly simmered soup. There’s love, finesse, and more than a bit of decor in each.

Even with spring right on the edge of the horizon, we can’t be sure when the warm times will come. So… let’s stay cozy with Slovenia until winter finally breaks for the year. And let’s keep on hoeing.

*All recipes and meal review will be available throughout the week.

Bean n’ Barley Soup | Ričet [Recipe]
If you’re wondering how Slovenians spend a cold winter’s afternoon, Ričet is the answer. Imagine a bowl full of barley, beans, potatoes. Mega yum.

Braided Heart Bread | Pleteno Srce [Recipe]
This is ultra fancy bread, made especially for weddings or other honorable occasions. The art is in the decorations which adorn the braided heart – they take considerable time to cobble together, especially for someone new to it, like myself.