Book excerpt: Enjoy this sampler of a diverse culinary heritage and culture, replete with 200 delicious recipes, a section on well-known Slovenian beers and wines, and stories of a fascinating past. Tucked between the foothills of the Alps, the coast of the Adriatic Sea, and the beginning of the Panonian plains to the East, Slovenia is a beautiful land in Central Europe. Among the popular draws are its peaceful Mediterranean affordability, scenic aspect and increased accessibility and affordability. Newly independent from Yugoslavia at the end of the 20th century, Slovenia emerged fairly recently with a resilient culture and rich arts scene that has caused tourism to flourish. This book presents perhaps the only comprehensive guide to the country's cuisine. Ranging from such perennial favourites as Friko (Hearty Potato Pancake), linkrofi (Meat Dumplings), Bakala (Dried Salt Cod Pate) and Kostanjeva Juba (Chestnut Soup) to more unusual preparations like Crni Rioto.(Black Risotto with Squid, ink included) and Meerli (Baked Encrusted Pig or Veal Lung -- a version of Haggis), Slovenian fare is both hearty and wholesome. Not only do we discover these tasty dishes, but also ruminations on golf, the capital city of Ljubljana, and the art of Slovenian bee-keeping. Tales of such legendary locals as the 'sunshine salesman' and a Slovenian Robin Hood along with ghosts and fairytale castles also bring the culture alive in this unique volume.