On Friday 1 July, at the Baltic Sea Cultural Centre, a book launch event was held for "Flavours of Gdańsk – a cookbook" – a publication that AMBEREXPO was delighted to sponsor. After more than 160 years, two enthusiasts of cooking and history – Katarzyna Fiszer and Aleksandra Kucharska – have revisited Marie Rosnack's recipes, preparing a book inspired by the traditional dishes of Gdańsk cuisine.
Ideas that are never written down fade from memory, stories that are never told slip into oblivion, and customs that fall out of practice simply vanish from public life. The same is true of culinary recipes – who among us has heard of "duck with chestnuts"? When did we last see anchovy butter sandwiches on our plate? Has anyone ever treated us to an exquisite almond cake at a friend's house? Traces (or rather, aromas) of the dishes mentioned above can be found in the rich, 762-year-old tradition of St Dominic's Fair.
The modern format of this event draws on customs that began back in the Middle Ages – trading, seeking out attractive goods, feasting, and above all, having a good time outdoors. The participation of the finest craftspeople, artists and collectors satisfies even the most refined tastes of Fair visitors, and summer evenings are filled with music and good energy. Over four weeks each summer, the city centre transforms and recalls its historic character. History continues to be written.
For these reasons, AMBEREXPO, organiser of St Dominic's Fair, was pleased to support this publication, which continues and revives Gdańsk's historic culinary traditions. It is not merely a description of old recipes, but a successful attempt to capture the flavours enjoyed by the historic residents of this Baltic town. We would like to encourage all Fair enthusiasts to discover them. We believe that these revived recipes – an unexpected yet thoroughly delicious way of continuing tradition – will make you even more eager to join us at our event.
It is worth mentioning that the publication inspired us to bring back the "St Dominic's Fair Delicacy". This dish, along with a special Fair menu, will be available at selected Gdańsk restaurants and food stalls during the upcoming edition of the event.
We warmly invite you – to read the book, and in July, to join us in Gdańsk for St Dominic's Fair! Let yourself be carried away by the friendly, joyful atmosphere, full of emotion! We promise unforgettable experiences and wonderful memories.
