Now on air
15:30
Mushrooms of the North-West of Russia
Mushrooms were sprouting up all over our planet long before mankind ever existed. To this day they play an important role in our lives, however their origins, methods of nutrition and reproduction in many ways still remain a mystery to modern science. Russia’s northwest region is known for its particularly diverse mushroom species while the area’s many pine, mixed and deciduous forests, picturesque cliffs and swamps have served as a great attraction for nature lovers for many years. The region’s close proximity to St. Petersburg, a cultural and research centre, contributes to the increasing number of people studying mushrooms and the number of those who appreciate the region’s unique natural beauty.
Valentin Vorobiev. The art of blacksmiths
Valentin Vorobyov is a third generation smith working under the artistic pseudony of Metalissimus. In the 1980s, despite his lack of any professional artistic education, he began to work with metal, quickly becoming of the finest in the art in Russia. In the Moscow region village of Korostovo, he has created his own museum of artistic smithery featuring his finest sculptures created using varied techniques, from classical sculptures to techno-art. This film takes a look at his creative path and the family life of this hereditary smith, the traditions of his mastery and the secret of conquering the Louvre.
Now on air
15:15
Valentin Vorobiev. The art of blacksmiths
The Geography of Taste. Guriev Porridge with Coconut Milk, Mango, Berries and an Almond Meringue
Guriev porridge is a refined dish of Russian cuisine that, today, has largely been forgotten. Russians may have heard the name, but who’s actually tried it? It’s actually a sumptuous dessert… made with semolina. Don’t judge a book by its cover. This semolina dish has a real delicacy at its heart! The host of the Geography of Taste, Vladimir Pavlov, is making Guriev porridge with coconut milk, mango, berries and an almond meringue. He’ll also tell you the unusual history of this dish – the most elite aristocratic families – the Yusupovs, the Stroganovs, the Sheremetyevs - would compete in the richness of the serving of this dish. At one reception, all of the ladies invited to supper were served with a Guriev porridge in 19 layers, ranging from semolina to creamed milk, candied and fresh fruit. And in one of those layers, a silk pouch was hidden, containing … Find out what exactly in this...
Now on air
15:30