Rakeia in Veliko Toranado
Bulgaria is a country in the Balkans that has a coastline that sits on the Black Sea. It is known for its traditional costumes and dance which can be seen at a typical folklore show.
So, what is most important to Bulgarians in terms of good mental health? I’m in Veliko Tarnovo a city in northern Bulgaria which has a fortress called Trapezitsa located on a hill and surrounded by the Yantra River. I asked a local of Veliko Tarnovo what is most important to Bulgarians regarding mental health: “Well, you can wish people success or anything else but the most important thing to wish others is good health, because if they have good health then everything else will follow.” What is good health to her then? “Well for me its eating alot of Shopska Salad…with rakeia of course!!” she said with a chuckle.
I’m going to interject here. Rakeia. Is a grape juice which is around 40% alcohol. It can also be made from roses or plumbs. Shopska salad is a combination of tomato, cucumber, onion, peppers, parsley and vinegar and oil to taste. It is often topped with finely grated white cheese. It’s simple and delicious particularly when served with beef soup.