A Food Lover’s Fantasy – Page 4 – Travel With A Purpose

Italy Bound

Posted on June 25, 2015by admin

I am always so amazed that one nation has so many ethnic influences. I am even more thrilled by how many foreigners are finding entrepreneurship to be the Caribbean goldmine in Trinidad and Tobago. Business tourism is one of the many sectors that is flourishing as Trinidad dons the name “Manhattan of the Caribbean.” Another aspect of business that goes hand in hand with tourism is food. The colonizers can probably hold responsibility for all that is happening now. It is so ironic that the nation changed so many hands from European to British (and the list goes on and on) and today more than ever the foreign trade is making ties to this country and foreigners are migrating to set up business here. This is phenomenally paradoxical as the nation was fought for its trade potential ( among others) and now so many of its predecessor host county men and women are settling here for the purpose of business without the angst and hostility of war.

The Italians have since settled in Tobago and operate mostly food businesses. Hence, they celebrate their signature Italian food and desserts and they have been grown fond of over the years for their food and personable nature. In addition, this Italian food trend has become popular in Trinidad. There has been several launches of pizzerias, cafes and restaurants. The most recent that I have noticed happens to be Giro’s Pizza in Chaguanas. This is another first for Central Trinidad adding more cultural value to their landscape.

Giro’s Pizza is located at #87 Old Southern Main Road, Edinburgh Village in Chaguanas (just look for the red, green and white horizontal striped flag on the left hand side of the road opposite Wing Hua Chinese Restaurant). Their opening hours are Tuesdays to Thursdays 12:00 noon to 8:00 p.m. On Fridays and Saturdays they open from 12:00 noon to 9:00 pm. Sundays are more laid back as they open from 4:00 pm to 8:00 p.m. Giro facilitates walk ins, order to pick up service and delivery service (at the extra cost of TTD$15.00). This quaint pizzeria does not provide dine in service and there is limited street parking.

The menu captures wood oven baked pizza with meat, fish, shrimp and vegetarian options. The pizza sizes vary from 10 inches to 15 inches. These pizza prices can start as low as TTD$45.00 and scale all the way up to TTD$110.00. There is also vegetarian, chicken and beef lasagne all at TTD$59.00. Some interesting desserts are also hand crafted and stored for the sweet tooth fans. These include key lime pie, classic cheesecake, carrot cake, tiramisu, almond mousse cheesecake and panna cotta. The dessert rates start at TTD$20.00 and vary until they taper at TTD$35.00 per item.

My experience

Location: 4 stars

This is a convenient and accessible location

Parking: 3 stars

There is limited parking in front of the shop. Thankfully I went on a holiday and there was parking on the other side of the road as the business there was closed for the day. However, there are many spots on the street that accommodate parking.

Cleanliness: 4 stars

Giro keeps his work stations clean and washes his hands frequently. There is proper storage and refrigeration of food. Overall, clean place. But there is always room for improvement in sanitation.

Service:4 stars

There was a wait before getting the orders done but it was not very long as the pizza making and baking did not take long either. It is useful to note this can be a one man show at times (well at least the day I visited). The pizza chef did everything it seems; the cashing and pizza making but he is quite attentive, humble, warm and keeps good humour (typical traits of most Italians).

Food: 4 stars

This is authentic Italian cuisine and the wood oven makes it even more realistic. I took pizza fanatics with me (I’m on a low fodmap diet so I really cannot indulge in certain items for a while) to do the taste testing. They ordered a large eight slice Nibali pizza at TTD$90.00. This consisted of mozzarella, tomato sauce, pepperoni, pineapple and onions. They swapped the pepperoni for chicken on half of the pizza which is also an option if you would like to try two different types of pizza. They thoroughly enjoyed it but were not overly impressed as one of them found it not to be “fulling” to them whilst the other was able to eat twice from their share of pizza. Italian pizza is not American pizza so the Italian thin crust can probably account for this as well as the individual’s stomach capacity.

Ambiance: 4 stars

There is some homage to Italy with icons from the host country decorating the wall partitions. There is some abstract art on the wall as well. There are Giro Pizza logos branding the refrigerators and entrance. There is light Italian music and the live pizza making action and interaction of a busy light hearted Italian chef.

Price: 4 stars

The price is reasonable.

For more information on Giro’s Pizza

Visit them online at

https://www.facebook.com/pages/GiroPizza/1386129835039112?sk=timeline

Place your order

1-868-280-4476 (GIRO)

Trinidad – Wine Country?!

Posted on June 20, 2015by admin

Trinidad and Tobago has been earmarked, “the party island”. It is worth noting that we are often affectionately referred to as “The Land of Rum”. While we are not known as a wine country ( except if we were talking about the dance form “wining” but we are not) ‘Trinbagonians’ have produced their own local wines for quite some time. This country has also imported our wines to fit the increasing demand for this supply. The importation of wines are infamous with the booming local food and beverage industry. The restaurants and retail wine shops provide a taste of home for the many nationalities that reside in this multicultural twin island state. In addition, it gives the ‘Trinbagonian’ national the opportunity to travel around the world in a sip, a glass and of course a bottle. This suggests that in the future perhaps Trinidad may adopt yet another nickname for the love of wine.

There are quite a handful of wine retailers over the East to West corridor of Trinidad. So one can imagine the trials and tribulations one would endure to get there from the south or central parts of Trinidad just to acquire a decent bottle of wine. ( Of course, there are wines and other liquors sold at selected supermarkets and convenience stores.) However, the growing niche of persons interested in selection, premium quality, taste and variety is left in some sort of bewilderment at the lack of a nearby wine shop especially if they do not ‘ply’ the East/West Corridor often.

Thankfully someone realized this very need and TNT Wine Cellars opened their doors at A1 Atlantic Plaza in Point Lisas last year. This is the first wine shop in Central Trinidad. The owner and founder of TNT Wine Cellars has over ten years experience in the auction of wines in the U.S.A. This experience has been channeled in a creative way to the opening of TNT Wine Cellars. The store is chic and small but fits the need in Central Trinidad. The layout is not too stereotypical or bourgeoisie. Most of the furniture is sustainable as they are made from wine crates. There is an artistic flair and a vivacious energy bursting out from the very walls, doors and shelves of the wine store.

(Door made from wine crate)

This is not a snob like wine retailer. It is a place for the convening of novice wine souls to the aged sommelier. The funky youth, the chic and classy metropolitan to the man on the street wishing to purchase a bottle of wine in the celebration of some special occasion in his life are all welcomed. The prices are affordable as the people of Trinidad and Tobago and the inherent economy were taken into consideration before the start of this venture.

The concept of the shop is wine focused with a few extras such as accessories, champagnes and other alcoholic spirits. There is online shopping, an order and pick up service and even delivery service. They also cater to special events. The customer service is warm. The staff is very knowledgeable as the customer can always get a consultation on the type of wine to buy before purchase.

So if you are in the area feel free to check them out Monday – Friday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.

They were open today for their Father’s Day sale from 10:00 am until 3:00 p.m.

https://www.facebook.com/tntwinecellar?fref=ts&ref=br_tf

http://tntwinecellar.com/index.php

Gluten Free and Happy in Trinidad!

Posted on June 16, 2015by admin

What is a fodmap?

FODMAP is an abbreviated term for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols. Basically these are molecules that exist in foods. They are sometimes poorly absorbed into the digestive tract. When this happens they become a food source to the bacteria in the large intestine. Hence, the individual develops symptoms that are suggestive of gastrointestinal disorders. These include nausea, pain, bloating, diarrhea and even constipation to name a few. Different individuals may have varying symptoms some may have fever from inflammation and others may even develop insomnia and anxiety.

What is a fodmap diet?

This is a form of dietary therapy for patients suffering from gastrointestinal disorders. It also scales foods on the high end of the map and the low end of the map. Usually, the low fodmap diet plan is recommended by gastroenterology specialists. This plan includes avoiding foods that are ferementable, oligosaccharides (fructans), dissacharides (excess lactose), monosaccharides (excess sucrose) and polyols (Sorbitol, Mannitol, Maltitol, Xylitol and Isomalt). The diet of the patient and symptoms are then monitored for their improvement.

If you are on a low fodmap diet how will you survive in Trinidad?

It is very easy! You do not have to go all vegan and buy the expensive stuff! Just get creative with your new menu! I will fill you in on where these fodmap items are available! You can use your low fodmap diet plan as a guide to make your shopping list. You can easily find some of the fruits, vegetables and rice at supermarkets, farmer’s markets and then there are the gourmets grocers. The local food guru Trinichow has already compiled a list of gourmet grocers and health food stores so click the link to see the options in Trinidad and Tobago below.

Gourmet Grocers & Health Food Stores in Trinidad & Tobago

Do not get too frantic about the cost of your new diet or where you may find these items or what if they are expired?! The reality is that Trinidad and Tobago like many other destinations have realized the need for accessibility and availability of the aforementioned items. Hence, there are entrepreneurs capitalizing on this opportunity to meet this demand. More significantly, it has been recognized that gastrointestinal diseases and symptoms are a prominent issue in today’s society.

In addition Trinidad and Tobago can boast of a registered charity for patients suffering from gastrointestinal disorders. The National Association of Crohn’s and Colitis of Trinidad and Tobago enhances patient education and well being as well as public awareness for early diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, Trinidadian born and raised Dr. Anthony Kalloo made a breakthrough discovery in gastroenterology with his Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery which means surgery without incision of patient. He was well received with the distinguished educator of the year award from the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and the Caribbean American Heritage Award (CARAH) in 2009.

My Tips

1. Work out a breakfast, lunch and dinner menu

(Breakfast – gluten free bagel with cooked spinach and cheddar/hard cheese)

(Breakfast – Gluten free English muffin with baby spinach and cheddar cheese)

N.B. Sometimes I use almond butter as a spread with these muffins and bagels. Feel free to use what you like and what is on your low fodmap list!

(Lunch – Rice Lasagna with minced meat, green beans, carrots, cheddar, olive oil)

N.B. This was lunch for the “meat eaters” who are not on the low fodmap diet so there are some high fodmaps in this rice pasta like corn, peas, onions, garlic, ketchup, tomato paste. So you do not necessarily have to be vegan or on this diet to enjoy gluten free meals. By the way they absolutely loved it!

(Lunch- Herbed Potatoes )

N.B. It was boiled, strained, drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, paprika, rosemary, marjoram and chilli. I had this with grilled fish and a side of baby spinach. So you do not have to be all fancy and there are lots of listed low fodmap herbs you can play with when creating your food. See what is available to you first before you go shopping. I even had dhal, rice and bhagi aka cooked spinach for one of my meals.

(Dinner – Gluten Free Pizza– olive oil, cheddar cheese,olives from the low fodmap)

N.B. The thing to note here is that this was again created for the “carnivores” who do not live on a diet plan. There are items like chicken salami, pasta sauce, ketchup, green bell peppers, onions, corn from the high fodmap on this pizza.

2. Include dessert , fruit, snack and water intake

(Snack – Gluten Free Brownies)

N.B. These are basically done. Everyone ate them and loved them. You do not have to be a vegetarian or pescetarian or vegan to enjoy this! These brownies are the end result of a brownie mix that requires water, eggs and olive oil to be added to it to create the brownie batter.

(Fruit – Kiwis)

N.B. You can create your own fruit bowls from the low fodmap or find the fruits that you like and use them!

3. Create a budget

4. Identify your closest low fodmap shopping areas

Gourmet Grocers & Health Food Stores in Trinidad & Tobago

N.B. I found some of my low fodmaps at Superpharm, the regular supermarket and the farmer’s market.

5. Make a shopping list

(Shopping – This is what I got from my shopping spree)

6. Go shopping!

7. Start creating!

8. Enjoy the labour of your love!

9. Research more recipes

10. Enjoy!

Your health is your wealth!

Take care of you first!

Salt N Pepper – The Review

Posted on June 12, 2015by admin

Salt N Pepper is conveniently located in Shoppes of Maraval near to Papa John’s. The restaurant is relatively new just opening in November 2014. They serve Indian and Pakistani cuisine. Their serving portions are quite reasonable and their rates are comparable. Whilst this is not a huge restaurant it fits the description of a more intimate and updated take out/walk in type of set up. The customer still gets waiter service if they decide to dine in. One should note that gluten free and fodmap dieters can comfortably eat at Salt N Pepper. My order was some aloo paratha which I requested gluten free paratha. Their food was good. Yet again I am amazed at the clear distinction between Indian paratha and Trinidadian paratha as they are two totally different things. I have zero complaints about their staff as they were helpful and attentive.

My suggestions

The restaurant is fairly new and their focus seems to be creating authentic and quality food. I feel as though a few more things could have been done. Of course I am not judging because maybe these things will be rolled out as part of their strategic plan or even marketing plan in the future. But let us not be oblivious to the fact that I have been in marketing, hospitality and tourism for a minimum of eight years.

Ambiance: I loved the look it is almost like an Indian diner (the Indian version of the American diner). However, dining out is an experience and even diners set the mood and tone with some music. I would have loved to feel immersed in India while dining. This would have added some vibe and pulled some patrons to return or visit for this experience.

Staff: The staff is so sweet and kind. Whilst I noted only two persons I did hear faint Indian accents echoing from the kitchen. I would have loved to at least interacted at some point with authentic Indian staff to make me feel as if I really went to India without leaving Trinidad. Perhaps this can be implemented where a staff member maintains a role to visit the dining customers when they are eating and simply ask about the customer’s dining experience. Another idea is to interact with the customer by serving them or retrieving their plates.

Marketing: Social media, word of mouth, print advertisement seems to be the “run of the mill” with their advertising. I am not too sure how an average day is gauged in terms of number of patrons and dollars. But during my time there which was just after lunch I only saw about ten persons including myself and a friend. I completely understand that their space is small but I believe marketing is about racking up those numbers. I suggest they tap into product differentiation and try other target markets. I did notice there is some advertisement of similar services offered on their website but I am curious about their leads and follow up on this. They can explore collaboration as a supplier for expos (career fairs, school events or industrial events) and catering for industrial meetings (the industrial sector is forever flooded with meetings and tea plates or snack boxes). They can investigate a partnership with Eat 868 the local gourmet delivery service. Nonetheless this is the digital era and so much can be done for free with access to social media platforms. It basically takes some time to just be creative and plan ways of connecting with the target market and keeping them up to date with the happenings of the restaurant from menu changes to deals and closing times.

https://www.facebook.com/saltnpepper/info?tab=page_info

http://www.saltnpeppertt.com/

Well that’s my two cents they can take it or leave it. Notwithstanding, Salt N Pepper has the right formula. Their food is good and once the product is top notch and the service is okay this model can function. However, this is the world of business so room for improvement will set Salt N Pepper apart from its competitors. Trinidad already has quite a few Indian restaurants. Although they are located in several parts of the country clear distinctions in a well marketed brand will determine whether the clients choose the competitors over Salt N Pepper.

So if you have not been there yet…

Go check them out and take some friends with you!

xoxo

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago

Chimichanga- Mexican Fast Food in Trinidad

Posted on April 11, 2015by admin

A Chimichanga can best be described as a deep fried burrito. However the Chimichanga I speak about is an orange food cart that is situated on “the cross” or Cross Crossing in San Fernando. It is found closest to the Kenson Institute just before the traffic lights if you are exiting JTA Supermarket. Also it is usually the last food cart at the end of the food strip of huts. It can also be the first hut if you are driving up the strip just after Kenson heading towards the JTA Supermarket. There you will find a brightly coloured hut named “Chimichanga” and you can find a park as close as possible to it if you are driving. They are open on Fridays and Saturdays from 7 pm – 11 pm.

The menu at Chimichanga consists of burrito bowls, tacos and burritos. The rates vary for different items. The prices range from TTD$25.00 – TTD$40.00. They are very organized from ordering, production to customer service delivery. The surroundings are clean. The team that works there is outfitted in Chimichange t-shirts which differentiates them for bringing a level of professionalism, marketing, branding and courtesy to restaurant operations even on a cart. There is a certain synergy of passion and love for what they do that should not go unmentioned because it is felt when this same energy is transferred to the customers.

My order consisted of a fish burrito wrap and chicken tacos (soft shell). The burrito comprised of Mexican rice, black beans, shredded cabbage, corn, salsa, lime, pepper, sour cream, chips and fish. The tacos were stuffed with chicken, vegetables, salsa, corn, sour cream, cheese and chips. Usually guacamole is added but my friend opted for its omission to the tacos. Both items were delectable bursting with colour, zest, flavour and so much excitement packed into a wrap! Yet, I noticed that the chips sprinkled on the burritos, tacos as well as the wraps and shells themselves were prepackaged (I know some people who go ballistic over the authenticity of food including myself). All the other items seemed to have been home cooked which contributed to a realistic Mexican appeal even the fish. However, I do understand the model of their business and the need to use prepackaged taco shells and burrito wraps because of the fast food pace, storage, cook time and the list goes on.

Chimichanga is a recent addition to the food strip in the south land and hopefully it continues to be a star attraction there. It brings diversity and cultural value to the destination Trinidad. I highly recommend that you try them out if you have not done so already. After my first purchase there I can definitely say it won’t be my last. The food is as vibrant and impressive as the Mexican culture and people. It is simply amazing that even though some of the former inhabitants of Trinidad were from Latin America that today we can still share in the celebration of their lifestyle through their food.

Contact Chimichanga today!

https://www.facebook.com/chimichanga.trinidad/timeline?ref=page_internal

1-868-780 – 6954

French Dining in Trinidad

Posted on April 11, 2015by admin

I was absolutely mesmerized when I first saw photos of Chef Khalil Ali’s work on his Facebook page. I could not believe that this native to Trinidad was so versed in french cooking skills. Of course I did learn that he trained and also built his portfolio globally. I guess like all birds that leave the nest this one eventually returned home to share his experience and gift with the locals. He opened his cafe in Port of Spain and it became a popular spot for many who appreciate French cuisine and five star food.He closed this Port of Spain cafe and reopened in Chaguanas at Caroni Savannah Road some years later.

There is an open floor plan with comfortable seating at his new cafe. The decor is not overdone or too quaint. There is a faint Parisian vibe from the paintings on the wall to the almost terrace like appeal of sitting with your coffee whilst watching the busy world on the streets. However, we live in a very humid climate so from indoors amidst the air conditioning we can still thoroughly enjoy this scene. A touch of life and a pop of colour is added with a single yellow flower to each table. The usefulness of old wine bottles as vases for these flowers is even more rustic. The Parisian music further captures and enhances the French ambiance.

His menu is not restricted to French cuisine as there are some local fusions on the menu as well.The food portions are sufficient and the rates are affordable. There is breakfast, lunch and dinner. Chef Ali has exclusive and decadent gourmet desserts, pastries and breads. Hot and cold beverages are also available. These range from coffee, tea, soft drinks and juices.

While dining there my colleague and I opted for pumpkin soup and a chicken wrap. We were greeted with menus and the waiting time for food to table was not very long. Moreover, the staff was courteous and friendly. They kept us informed on wait time for our meal. We were very pleased with the meals. The food was flavorful and delicious. We were also able to take away our leftovers (because we were pressed for time).

Nonetheless, the sweet strains of French music set the tone for the day. It allowed anyone dining to escape to destination France while relishing in their delightful meals in one location,Trinidad. It is my opinion that meal times should never be rushed but sometimes hectic lifestyles do not afford us the luxury of a parsimonious breakfast, lunch or dinner. However, when one gets the opportunity to indulge they can choose to enjoy great food and even better company in French style.

Undeniably, what appealed to me the most was how much this cafe stood out amongst its competition. Its simplicity and old world charm yet new age sleekness is astonishing. This experience really put me in my zone too (so bad that I only remembered to buckle up my seat belt about half hour after departure from Peche Patisserie). Those of you who do not know what my zone is it is a state of ecclesiastical bliss and inner peace. It is a state of balance where the energy that surrounds me becomes a positive beacon for life.

Notwithstanding, food specially crafted by skilled hands with a soul that is passionate and purely benevolent with such talent will inevitably transfer light and love to the cafe, staff and customers who consume the chef’s offerings. It is obvious that Chef Ali understands and appreciates his craft very well. Again, this is clearly visible throughout the entire establishment from front line to back line all the way to the different points of service encounters.

We look forward to supporting Peche Patisserie as patrons of their business now and in the future.

Contact Peche Patisserie

1-868-223-2433

https://www.facebook.com/peche.patisserie

Super Foods = Super Powers

Posted on February 6, 2015by admin

So forget all the OTC (over the counter) drugs and the illegal ones that once caught you have to face dire consequences. There is a new “high” that is cost effective, legitimate, all natural and definitely pro body and mind! It just might be the world’s best kept secret from mankind! But as usual I cannot keep it to myself so I am just dying to fill you in on all the details! ( Super hero fanatics you may get your superpowers after all!)

My Fruit Salad Recipe

1/2 pear (chopped)

1 banana (chopped)

1/8 cup of pumpkin seeds

Method

Add ingredients to bowl

Toss them

Enjoy!

My Breakfast Story

I believe breakfast is the most important meal of the day. I hate when it gets skipped because a hungry person is an angry person (myself included). I love variety in any breakfast menu. It should never be boring! Hence, I started to introduce fruit salads rather than just have one fruit a day to the breakfast table. This week I added some pumpkin seeds to my morning fruit salad (see recipe above).

I loved the freshness, textures and the array of sweetness of the fruits and the crunch of the pumpkin seeds too. It took only a little while before my brain was dancing and singing (I really don’t know how else to explain it). I became somewhat happy. My mind was alert, my eyes felt like they opened up to a whole new world. My mind, my body and soul were at peace with each other. It lasted for the entire day and night. I did not feel tired at all. There was a sense of calm. Yet, I still felt as thought I had a boost of energy!

I could not fathom why this was happening or what was the reason so I did my research and I found the culprit or should I say miracle worker! This is the real deal! It works and it is so amazing that this stuff is natural and readily available at leading supermarkets and health stores nationwide. Could you have guessed pumpkin seeds were the super ingredients ?! If you guessed right, good for you! Now go take a pumpkin seed break!

Interesting Facts

Nutritional Value (0.25 cup)

(manganese 74%, phosphorus 57%, magnesium 48%, copper 48%, zinc 23%, protein 20%, iron 16%)

Benefits:

Get High-These little pieces of magic are a great source of magnesium which help increase the creation ATP (adenosine triphosphate) or the energy currency of life as it is known as the high energy molecule that stores energy for us to do everything that we do. This means there is an increase in the pumping of your heart.
Morning Flush Guaranteed (Look out for the evening flush too!) Of course there is fiber so you can rest assured there will be a flush some time after digestion.
Irie Vibes – We be Jammin’- The blood vessels become relaxed as a result of magnesium consumption. Finally, you can take the natural route to relax land.
Smile and Stretch- Strengthen your bones and teeth with this magnesium drug as it promotes bone and teeth formation.
Zinc will give you Super Powers
Get Immunity– improved health of the immune system
Network Coverage : ” Hellurr earth to body! Pick up the phone”- increasing the growth and reproduction of cells.
Mood Ring – stimulate moods and heighten senses of taste and smell
Maximum Coverage – The eye and skin are no exceptions from improved health with the consumption of zinc.
Regulator– Diabetics can also benefit as it promotes insulin regulation.
Keep the doctor away – Guys who are no too much into the healthy lifestyle guess what Zinc just may save you a trip to the doctor in your later years. There is proof that it improves overall health of prostate.
The Good Fat – This is a great source of Omega 3 , healthy fats, antioxidants and fibers for improved health of heart and liver.
Pause for a cause – There is an increase of good cholesterol. They decrease blood pressure levels. So women who are facing menopause and suffer from hot flashes, headaches and joint pains can now enjoy a natural alternative.
Goodbye Insomnia– Tryptophan is an amino acid found in this world wonder seed. The body uses it to convert into serotonin which is then converted to melatonin (the sleep hormone). It is recommended to pair it with some fruit (some hours before bedtime curfew) for a restful night!
Natural Analgesic-These anti inflammatory effects will make you forgo a trip to the pharmacy. It has been tested with proven potential to help arthritis patients.

So 2015 Cheers to a healthier and happier you!

Take care of yourself !

Come on you owe it to yourself to not only look good but feel good too!

Credits:

Information Source:

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/09/30/pumpkin-seed-benefits.aspx

More Recipes

http://www.seriouseats.com/2010/10/roasted-pumpkin-seeds-spicy-sweet-salty-recipes.html

"Trini" Alice in Filipino Wonderland

Posted on January 5, 2015by admin

The Honourable Dr. Eric Williams invited the Filipino community to Trinidad in 1964. This was just after his trip to the Far East. He may have realized that for such a skilled nation of 7,102 islands and over 103 million people it may have been competitive for the Filipinos to find work in their own job market. He may have also realized that this community which speaks English, Spanish and dialect Tagalog of Catholic and Muslim religions may have been similar to his multicultural state of Trinidad and Tobago. In addition, a lightning bolt idea probably struck him when he may have realized the resourcefulness and dual benefit to these citizens and to his Trinidad if he offered them employment by inviting these skilled professionals to fill the labour shortages in his country. Later they would arrive from the island of Cebu and the capital city of the Philippines, Manila to fill skill gaps as medical personnel, doctors, nurses, pharmacists and to assist with the restructuring of the then TELCO Trinidad telephone state services which were deplorable and affecting everyone including Dr. Eric Williams. Today, the estimated Filipino population in Trinidad is approximately over 1,000 persons. They are found in several skilled areas of engineering, medicine, construction, art, culture, business and culinary arts.

I have been fortunate to have been invited to their “potlucks” on several occasions (Birthdays and New Years Eve) to experience first hand Filipino culture. This is a house party with lots of Filipino food ( the Filipinos attending bring a dish or more to the table), karaoke singing and family (this does not necessarily mean blood relation but friends from the Filipino community in Trinidad). Filipino food is usually steamed or stir fried. Their diet is quite healthy and they consume less oil. Although, there is almost always the roasting of a pig over an open fire! This pig is stuffed with herbs and covered in coconut oil and roasted for flavor, texture and fat reduction! It is neither too salty or too sweet or too spicy but flavorful for the palate. Even if you are not family you are treated as though you are part of their household. There is plenty laughing and though they speak Tagalog their English is quite good and the “Trini” dialect as well! They are excellent hosts as they always make sure their guests are comfortable and happy. Their hospitality emanates like a pulsating aura of love and positive, clean, happy energy throughout their home from the minute they greet you throughout your stay even until you leave and get in your car ready to leave. One can reminisce that they went to the Philippines and returned to Trinidad as this culture immersion captivates individuals each time almost like magical realism to a “Trini” Alice in a “Filipino” Wonderland fairytale!

It is this very essence of culture immersion, adaptability and diversification that reflects how one nation, a twin island state can exist in peace with many others under one sun and one sky. Trinidad is blessed by this beautiful gem of multiculturalism. Even though we are many cultures the respect and appreciation for each other shout volumes of amplified unity and harmony as one body of a Trinbagonian identity.

So Live and Let Live,

Love and Be Loved,

Experience Culture & Respect Each Other

Represent Your Nation

Trinidad and Tobago

The True Caribbean

xoxo

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago

Singh's Doubles-The Untold Barra Story

Posted on December 17, 2014by admin

The Origin of Doubles

The rumour is that doubles began in Princess Town when a barra vendor put two barras together with some channa and sold it. No one started started doubles in Debe rather the vendors started with doubles already founded by someone else. Debe Doubles began sixty five years ago.

Singh’s Doubles History

According to Harry Persad his Nanny, Barnie Bhoolai and Nana Ramrattan Bhoolai who started making the Indian delicacies. Basdeo Bhoolai started selling them at the markets. Basdeo got married and left to live in St. John’s Road, Avocat. He spoke about Namdeo Singh’s father, Parduman Singh and his mother together with Barnie and Ramrattan Bhoolai who continued the trade until they passed away and handed down the business to their children who are now the current owners.

After interviewing Namdeo Singh I found out that his grandmother sold the first jalebi in Trinidad made from a mixture of honey and spices. She also made sweets like tall boy (something like a twizzler), kurma and ladoo. Singh’s Doubles started with the barra, saheena and kachourie. This barra was sold with chutney. The ingredients for the barra came from urdi which was planted in Trinidad. Singh’s Barra was sold at markets and pay yards; Barrackpore oil field market, Golconda oil field market, Picton oil field market, Hermitage oil field market, Woodland oil field market. Caroni Limited workers would come by train to the market. Workers were paid in cash and were able to pay for their treats of barra on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays which were market days.

(Photo credit Introvertly Bubbly: http://introvertlybubbly.com/ )

The Transition

They moved from selling at markets to selling at the Debe junction next to a Chinese shop. Patrons bought their doubles on Fridays and Saturdays when they would frequent the Chinese shop. Huts and strips began when the Chinese owner, named Aqui , relative to the late Governor General Solomon Hochoy removed other persons from crowding his area and selling there.

Thirty five years ago they built huts at their homes and began selling their doubles from there . It was the family’s main source of income and it was a generational job as Namdeo’s ( the story teller) mother also sold at The Hummingbird Cinema to earn money to send Namdeo to the prestigious Naparima College by train. The Debe food strip began here at their homes.

Present Day

Currently, the business is 80 years old and has seventeen workers. It is passionately carried on because of the will to live the legacy of their grandparents. Singh’s Doubles is just one of the many food huts selling Indo Trinidadian fusion food in south Trinidad. It is the most distinguishable hut as it is the only hut that has seating and shelter from the rain for approximately fifteen people or more, it offers clean surroundings, bathroom facilities to customers and quality customer service to all.

Thank you Namdeo Singh for taking the time to share your family’s history with us!

7 Recipes for #TriniChristmasEnthusiasts!!!

Posted on December 5, 2014by admin

So you are far away from Trinidad and Tobago and won’t be coming home this year? Your “in-laws” are coming over to visit? You are caught in some deep “do da” now that you really want to impress that special someone with your cooking but don’t know how? How about you the one who just wants to make a nice Christmas dinner for the family but you can’t decide on the menu? Well don’t you worry your pretty self we have you covered. Here are 7 recipes to make your Christmas tastier and merrier!

1. Trini Pastelle

http://www.trinicooks.com/cookbook/item/specialty-recipes/pastelles-2