In an evening that combined gastronomy, diplomacy, and business, the Embassy of Ecuador in Germany and the country's Banana Cluster organized the Delights from the Middle of the World dinner at the H10 Berlin Ku'damm Hotel on February 6. The event, which was attended by authorities and the sector's exporters and importers, served as a platform to strengthen the reputation of Ecuadorian products in the European market.
The Ecuadorian Minister of Production and Foreign Trade highlighted the importance of the meeting. "Germany is a strategic partner and a key market for our exports. Events like this allow us to strengthen Ecuador's position as a supplier of quality export products."
Ecuadorian chefs Carlos and Juan Sebastián Gallardo were in charge of designing a menu that fused the richness of Andean products with European influences. Among the dishes presented was the Sea of Plantain: Acorvichado Shrimp, a reinterpretation of the traditional Ecuadorian corviche, and the Marine Garden: Plantain Mash & Seafood, which combined green plantain mash with fresh seafood.
"The best thing about Ecuador is its products. The key is to adapt them to international gastronomies while preserving their essence," says Carlos Gallardo. His brother and partner, Juan Sebastián Gallardo, added: "We want the world to learn about the richness of Ecuadorian gastronomy and how our ingredients can shine on any table."
During the evening, it was announced that the dishes from the menu would be incorporated into the menu of the H10 hotel in Berlin and other European destinations, such as Vienna and Rome, further strengthening the relevance of Ecuadorian cuisine in international gastronomy.
Ecuador's participation in Fruit Logistica was not limited to the gala dinner. The country had its own hall where it exhibited a wide range of products, from bananas and plantains to exotic products, such as pitaya and mango. "This year, Ecuador had an unprecedented presence at the fair, reflecting the growth and importance of our export sector," said a representative of the Banana Cluster.
The evening closed with a tribute to the Ecuadorian export sector, highlighting its commitment to quality and innovation. "It gives us pride to see Ecuador making its mark in the world, not only with its bananas but also with a gastronomic supply that reflects our identity," said the Ambassador of Ecuador in Germany.