another horse ride and something to eat :)
Tuesday, August 9, 2011 @ 7:40 PM
How could I resist? The offer of going on another ride was too good to turn down, so this time 3 of us set out from Bubion with Raphael (HorseTreks) on a shorter 3 hour trek around the mountain as far as Capilleria and back, mostly on a shepherd's path with splendid views - so long as you didn't look down! My horse Lola was full of spirit but manageable and Raphael passed on some good tips about going steeply uphill (rise in the stirrups, grab the mane as far forward as you can with one hand etc) and to always ride with one hand only on the reins. But he seemed to have confidence in my skills since he let me lead the ride much of the way, and we all had a splendid 'gallop' (controlled canter really) on a good stretch of wider unmade road. My legs were much more tired afterwards as Lola needed proper grip and the saddle was leather without any soft sheepskin. But we had a great time - 45 euros for this one - and I would recommend Raphael for anyone who wants more than just a trek. He is organising a 4 day ride in early September to Trevelez, Berchules etc with tents if you're interested.
We are worlds away from city violence and protests...the main issues here in the village are:
* have we got everyone geared up for the fiesta and will the electricity work for the music
* will the local choir come and sing on Saturday at the right moment
* how many people should we invite back to the house for lunch etc etc
and now - should Steve go to Mugello, Italy for the 90 year Moto Guzzi celebrations in mid-September? Such a difficult decision to take! Especially when he needs their help to get his paperwork sorted out for Spanish registration! I think he should go - I am doing all this tango/horse stuff so it would only be fair...and he can spend hours touring the factory and discussing technical issues with other enthusiasts.
Have I passed on our chorizo/garbanzo/onion recipe? Dead easy, always delicious, best eaten as it cools down or completely cold, so it's good for parties and after riding! For 2-4 people, you just need a long chorizo picante sausage, a large onion and 2 jars of garbanzos. Slice and fry the onion until soft and golden, add the skinned, finely sliced chorizo and stir around until a darker gold and the chorizo has oozed out a lot of its fat (but not too crisp!). Meanwhile, rinse through the garbanzos in cold water , drain and place in a good-sized serving dish. Drain the onions/chorizo into an old newspaper (getting rid of the fat), then add to the garbanzos. Stir together then add (tasting as you go) about 4 tbs of good olive oil and 2 tbs of sherry vinegar and a little salt. When you're happy with the overall taste, give everyone a bowl and a spoon, pour a glass of wine and tuck in! Or you can be very traditional and just have spoons, put the serving dish in the middle of the table and eat it direct. Really delicious.