Ryss and Shaun: Savoring the Flavors of Bulgaria in Sofia

Join the adventurous couple, Ryss and Shaun, as they take you on a culinary journey through Bulgaria's vibrant capital, Sofia, exploring the local cuisine, all through their YouTube channel!

With an insatiable appetite for travel and a love for diverse cuisines, Ryss and Shaun set out to uncover the culinary wonders of this captivating Balkan country. Experience the Best Street Food in Sofia through the captivating YouTube video "BULGARIAN FOOD TOUR (BEST Street Food in Sofia!)" here – https://youtu.be/XZ0dBVu4tUg.

The Divine Banitsa: A Buttery Pastry Delight

Their food adventure began with the iconic Bulgarian dish, "Banitsa." Imagine biting into a flaky phyllo pastry filled with brined cheese and drenched in butter – it was pure bliss. The salty and buttery goodness melted in their mouths, and the cheese added the perfect savory touch. They couldn't help but rate it a perfect 10, setting the bar high for the rest of their culinary escapade.

Ayran: A Refreshing Yogurt Drink

Continuing their gastronomic journey, they tried "Ayran," a traditional Bulgarian yogurt-based drink. While Maryssa found it refreshing, Shaun, not a big fan of milk and yogurt, gave it a pass. Nevertheless, Ayran is a popular and rejuvenating beverage loved by locals.

Mekitsa: The Bulgarian Fried Pastry

Next on their list was "Mekitsa," a mouthwatering deep-fried pastry that lured them with its delightful aroma. Mekitsa's unique texture combines the best of a donut and a funnel cake. Dusted with powdered sugar, it was a heavenly dessert-like treat that won their hearts.

Kebapche: A Tantalizing Meat Roll

For an authentic Bulgarian street food experience, Ryss and Shaun savored "Kebapche," a carnivore's delight. Made from a delectable mix of pork and beef, these minced meat rolls were grilled to perfection, delivering a burst of tantalizing flavors. Served with "Lyutenitsa," a sweet pepper and tomato spread, the combination was utterly irresistible.

Traditional Bulgarian Lunch: A Feast of Flavors

Their journey led them to a local restaurant where they met Sylvia, a Sofia native, who shared her wealth of knowledge about the city and its culinary traditions. Sylvia introduced them to "Tarator," a cold Bulgarian soup made with yogurt, cucumber, and dill. With its creamy texture and refreshing taste, Tarator provided the perfect respite on a warm day.

They also indulged in "Sirenki," or cheese fries, with crispy fries topped with the delicious serenade cheese, a constant companion in their Bulgarian food adventure.

Kapama: A Hearty Beef Stew

As a main course, they relished "Kapama," a tender beef stew with a rich and savory sauce. The slow-cooked beef fell apart with a touch, and the flavors were a tantalizing blend of spices and herbs. A true Bulgarian comfort dish that warmed their hearts.

Boza: A Unique Wheat Drink

Seeking new and exciting flavors, they discovered "Boza," a fermented wheat flour drink with a distinct sweet and bready taste. While an acquired taste for some, Boza is a fascinating part of Bulgarian food culture, appreciated by locals for its unique flavor profile.

Baklava: A Sweet Turkish Delight

For dessert, they savored "Baklava," a popular treat with layers of flaky pastry, chopped nuts, and sweet honey. Although Turkish in origin, Baklava has become a beloved dessert in Bulgaria, and the couple enjoyed every last morsel.

Shopska Salad: A Refreshing Bulgarian Classic

The final item on their food journey was the famous "Shopska Salad." This colorful and refreshing dish features ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and the distinct serenade cheese. Light and healthy, Shopska Salad is a staple in Bulgarian cuisine, enjoyed by both locals and travelers alike.

Exploring Bulgaria with Ryss and Shaun

Beyond their gastronomic journey, Ryss and Shaun's YouTube channel offers a window into their nomadic lifestyle, which began when they embarked on full-time travel in 2022. Not content with a one-year adventure, they realized that travel was their true passion and decided to explore the world indefinitely. In 2023, they purchased and renovated a van, transforming it into their mobile home, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in each destination.

Through their videos, Ryss and Shaun strive to deliver honest and authentic experiences, from the highs of stunning landscapes to the lows of van life realities. As Maryssa pursues her dreams as a full-time tattoo artist, and Shaun hones his photography skills, their followers are treated to an inspiring and unfiltered glimpse into the lives of modern-day explorers.

So, if you're yearning for an adventure and a taste of the world's flavors, don't miss out on Ryss and Shaun's journey. Subscribe to their YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@RyssandShaun and let them take you on a captivating exploration of cultures, traditions, and the wonders of global cuisine. Bon appétit and happy travels!