Episode 121

Veliki pozdrav, prijatelji.

Are you ready for another language-learning adventure?

Let’s find out how to say some words and phrases related to asking and answering questions.

This lesson will be a helpful precursor to our upcoming Game Show Theater! 

Lesson

To ask a question - pitati

May I ask you something? - Mogu li vas pitati nešto?

Answer - odgovor

To answer - odgovoriti

Correct (adj) - točan

Incorrect - netočno

Error - greška

To correct - popraviti

To make a mistake - pogriješiti

Super Slatko Report

In this edition of the Super Slatko Report, DJ Moe will tell us about the major fruits that come out of Croatia! If your hungry for some information about natural sweetness, join us!

As we know Croatia has a rich agricultural landscape, with an abundance of native fruits celebrated for their flavor and nutritional value. Among these fruits, five stand out as prime examples of Croatia's diverse bounty. These fruits come from the sun-kissed coast or found in Croatias lush interior, these fruits thrive in Croatia's Mediterranean climate, offering a delightful taste of the country's natural abundance.

I know we talked about this first one way back in E28 in the “things to buy at the market” episode, and again e82 where we talked about the Neretva River delta where the mandarins are grown. But here we go again.

Mandarins, known for their vibrant orange color and juicy sweetness, mandarins flourish in Croatia's coastal regions, particularly in Dalmatia. Grown commercially for generations, Croatian mandarins are prized for their intense flavor and aromatic zest. These fruits not only grace local markets but also find their way into various culinary creations, from refreshing salads to decadent desserts.

Now for a fruit we haven’t discussed too much on the show, let’s talk Cherries. Croatia's cherry orchards burst into blistering color each spring, painting the landscape with shades of crimson and burgundy. The country's favorable climate and fertile soil provide ideal conditions for cherry cultivation, resulting in plump, succulent fruits bursting with flavor. These little guys can be enjoyed fresh or transformed into jams, liqueurs, or savory sauces, Croatian cherries delight the palate with their irresistible sweetness.

One of my favorite under the radar fruits is the Fig. I call it under the radar because it doesn’t come to mind quickly to most folks. But the fig is Emblematic of the Mediterranean region, fig trees flourish throughout Croatia, their lush foliage adorned with clusters of luscious fruits. The flavor is slightly honeyed and sweet at the same time. Croatian figs are a culinary treasure cherished by locals and visitors alike. Whether consumed fresh, dried, or incorporated into savory dishes and desserts, figs add a delightful depth of flavor to countless culinary creations. I like to see them on charcuterie boards, goes really well with goat cheese and prosciutto, on a lightly toasted slice of a baguette with a little bit of olive oil. 

Ok so this one is a no brainer, Grapes! As we know Croatia is know for its vineyards and winemaking tradition. Croatia offers robust reds of Istria to the crisp whites of Dalmatia, Croatian grapes yield wines of exceptional character and complexity. Beyond winemaking, grapes are enjoyed fresh as a nutritious snack or pressed into juices and jams, showcasing their versatility and enduring appeal.

Here’s on i didn’t know grew in Croatia at a commercial level, Plums! In Croatia's orchards, plums dangle from branches like jewels, their colors range from deep purple to golden yellow. These versatile fruits are prized for their sweet-tart flavor and succulent flesh, making them a staple in both sweet and savory dishes. Whether transformed into traditional plum brandy (šljivovica), jams, or mouthwatering pastries, Croatian plums epitomize the country's culinary heritage.

If you listen to this show often you know that Croatia has a lot on offer, but the cultivation of native fruits is not merely a livelihood but a cherished tradition. Croatias is deeply rooted in their cultural heritage, food plays a big part in that and these fruits are big contributors. Whether you like to enjoy these fruits fresh, preserved, or transformed into culinary treassures, these native fruits are part of Croatia's rich agricultural legacy. 

I hope you added a few of these fruits to your shopping list like I have. And If you have access to these from Croatia, even better. 

And that’s it for the super Slatko report.