BrimstoneRecipes.com

Caribbean Dishes

2008-11-14T12:54:00.000-08:00

The Caribbean kitchen has been influenced by a variety of cultures, which have contributed to the interesting flavors of this region. The British, Danish, Dutch and French brought coffee, rice, oranges, limes, and mangoes to the Caribbean islands. Foods from West Africa that came to the islands include breadfruit, plantains, pigeon peas and okra. The papaya, avocado, and cocoa came from Mexico. Introduced by the Spanish are things like, garlic, onions, coconut, eggplant, cilantro, and chickpeas.

Special ingredients that give Caribbean cooking its unmistakable flavor are hot chili oil, peanut sauce, and Barbados seasoning. Dishes that are commonly associated with the Caribbean include kerked chicken, crab creole, frijoles negros, and banana curry. Rum is also a main ingredient in many island recipes such as rum punch and rum cakes. Some of the best known drinks to come form the islands include Carib champagne, cream stout punch, and pina colada. Other island favorites include tostones -- fried plantains. Coo-coo is cornmeal mush with okra, and fufu is mashed yams.

Hot and fruity sauces, coconut flavors, seasoned rice and marinated meat is the base of most Caribbean meals. Each of the islands has its own preference for hot sauces. In Barbados they use mustard based sauces. In Cuba, Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, they use mild and sweet chilies. Adobo seasoning is a blend of black pepper, garlic, and oregano mixed with vinegar, lemon, lime or sour orange juice to marinate meats.

The Caribbean islands are truly the world’s culinary melting pot. Their fabulous combination is what makes island cooking some of the most delicious in the world.

Caribbean Cooking

2008-11-12T10:03:00.000-08:00

Caribbean cooking consists of multiple foods, spices and herbs. Each island brings its own style and flavor. Some like it hot and some like it cold, but one thing is for sure, they all like to use lime. They use limes in their food much like we use lemons in our cooking here in the United States. Each island is well known for certain dishes.

Barbados is popular for frying fish. Cubans prefer their black beans and rice. Puerto Rico makes their famous flavor filled chicken and rice dinners and the French Islands enjoy a fine dish of creole.

The people of the Caribbean use spices and food in ways that are not often used in the United States. For example, the Cayman islanders use a spicy pepper in their chocolate cake. Coconut milk is not used in sweets, but instead is used in dishes such as stews, soups and sauces. Beef is not a product frequently used in the Caribbean since access to fresh seafood is common. There is also not a lot of space to raise such large animals for beef.

With a taste totally different that what you would find here in the United States, you will be able to taste both sweet and spicy foods. Beans and rice are a favorite side dish with every meal, so you won’t go hungry should you not enjoy the taste of something you ordered. Each island has its own unique style that is sure to be popular with the entire family.

Caribbean Dining

2008-11-10T14:11:00.001-08:00

Caribbean cuisine has remained unnoticed in years passed, but is now gaining some prominence. Each island has its own cultural flare, which was shaped by its European colonists.

Barbados, a former British colony, has maintained many English traditions. Guadeloupe retains the French customs and language, while Jamaica displays its own African and West Indies influences. Puerto Rico, the most modern island and gateway by air to these islands, displays its Spanish and American influences. The traditional fare is generally spicy in the Creole tradition, yet distinctly different. Surrounded by the ocean, fish is the most abundant ingredient in Caribbean cooking. Rice, a staple in their diet, and jerk, chunks of meat marinated in a spicy sauce then cooked over a flame, is found throughout the islands, all with their own special blend of seasonings.

Curry goat and chicken are eaten throughout the islands. A local version of Caribbean Goat Water stew has been chosen as one of the signature dishes of St. Kitts, Nevis, and the official national dish of Montserrat. It is made with goat meat, breadfruit, green pawpaw (papaya), and dumplings, in a tomato-based stew. Another popular dish in the Caribbean is called "Cook-up", or Pelau, a dish which combines variations of meats like chicken, beef, pig tail, saltfish and vegetables with pigeon peas and rice. A soup-like dish, Callaloo, containing leafy vegetables and okra is widely consumed in the Caribbean, with a distinctively mixed African and indigenous character.

Spanish-speaking islands of the Caribbean, Puerto Rico and Cuba tend to prefer more savory spices to these sharper flavors. Lime and garlic, for example, are more common there than pimento or allspice. Other common flavors used throughout the region include cinnamon, nutmeg and coconut.

Delightfully Caribbean

2008-11-09T14:10:00.000-08:00

The history and location of the Caribbean islands give it's food an exotic and unique personality. Cooking in the Caribbeans has evolved over the years using imported and local ingredients and a great deal of creativity. The combination of spices home grown in rich tropical soils and local seafood provides all the required basics that make dining in the Caribbean a special treat.

Early Europeans were among the first non-native people who benefited from a knowledge of Caribbean foods. When the Europeans first arrived they were enemies with the locals and actually took their lands. Despite this, they managed to learn how the natives obtained food and sustained themselves on native foods for the first several years. They learned to cook meats using the Caribbean method of crisscrossed green sticks over a smokey fire. The Caribbeans called this method "barbacoa." Today every backyard chef knows this as "barbecue."

In the 1960s, Caribbeans started exporting local ingredients to various parts of the world. Today, demand for the island taste has risen over the years and Caribbean home grown spices and ingredients are now shipped all over the world. Chefs from all over the world are now using Caribbean ingredients in many of their foods. They are constantly experimenting with spices and island ingredients imported from the Caribbeans. The resulting effect of the experimentation is a constant evolution of culinary taste. Much to the delight of diners all over the world, they have created locally cooked foods that have a distinct Caribbean taste.

Providing a Large Crowd with Elegant Food

2008-11-08T14:09:00.000-08:00

For a catering service to participate in a large event such as the Grammy or Oscar Awards puts this food service automatically in the limelight. Catering any large event takes the catering services a lot of time, preparation, skill, awareness of the likes and dislikes of people and patience. The host that puts on large events is more than likely going to ask the service for many last minute changes and the service must have the capability to pull off last minute decisions.

Whoever is hosting a major event will more than likely want perfection and it will require a lot of patience on the services end to provide this perfection to the best of their ability. Emphasis on the lighting for the tables at an event that airs on television leaves these caterers wanting their work to sparkle and shine. The one stipulation that catering services do voice strong opinions on is the alcohol part of whatever event they are preparing for. Normally the liability of this large capacity of people is under the catering service so they prefer alcohol to be nothing more than an enhancement of the party.

Any sophisticated catering service must carry strong will, good people skills and the ability to make sacrifices. Catering any large event has pros and cons and there will be people who criticize your work and people that will show praise to your business. Any catering business that has gained a reputation of praise from the events hosts are more than likely going to be requested to create another atmosphere of elegance and radiance of quality food.

Caribbean Flavors

2008-11-07T13:40:00.001-08:00

The Caribbean is made up of many islands, each with its own cooking traditions that are rooted in the history of the country of origin for the settlers of the island. One tradition each island embraces is the production of rum. Each island serves it with its own flavor added that is native to the particular island. Sugar cane is an important agricultural product of the islands, and rum is produced from molasses, a by-product of processing sugar. Dark rum is also an ingredient in many of the dishes served in the Caribbean.

Naturally, seafood is an important part of Caribbean cuisine. Chicken, goat, and pork are the main meat dishes for the islands. Beef is not popular on the islands, proven by the fact that Barbados Island is the only place ever where a McDonald's chain could not survive because the free hamburgers to promote the chain were not liked by the native Caribbeans.

The islands are known for their infusion of native grown spices and local fruits used freely in their recipes. The islanders are genuinely creative in their ability to use whatever is on hand locally to prepare meals. Spices grown there include allspice, nutmeg, thyme, curry, mint, sweet basil, mace, annatto, lemon grass, cloves, ground mustard, cinnamon, pepper, and ginger. Also, the flavors will include locally grown fruits such as coconuts, limes, papaya, guava, and apples, along with many other tropical fruits.

A typical Caribbean recipe may include seafood with dark rum and an unusual blend of herbs and spices. They may add heat with hot sauce or hot peppers and barbecue over an open flame. Barbecuing actually originated in the Caribbeans, and is a popular method of cooking everywhere today.

When to Hire a Caterer

2008-11-06T12:00:00.001-08:00

Everyone loves a party. Most people plan and prepare for their own party, and, in most cases, it successfully goes on without any problems. There are times, however, when it would be to the benefit of all to hire additional help. For example, occasions such as weddings, special events, company picnics, corporate holiday events or game nights such as casino night might require the help of a caterer.

Some caterers are full service and will plan everything from A to Z, and all you have to do is approve everything and arrive there for the event. Prior to hiring a caterer, ask yourself a few questions that will help determine if a caterer is needed for the event.

Ask yourself, why should I hire a caterer for this event? If the answer to these questions make your hair stand up, then save your sanity and your reputation and hire a professional to do the job while you get the credit. Ask yourself, is the size of the group more than I can handle? Do I know how to set the mood for the event? What foods are appropriate for this event? What type entertainment will I provide? Who will serve the refreshments? Will the event be buffet or sit-down? Will this event overwhelm me in the long run? How will I fit planning this event into my schedule of other obligations? The message here is that if you can afford a catering service, hire them. You will be able to enjoy the benefits of the party and obtain the objective to entertain your guests. They will leave feeling pampered and appreciative that you thought enough of them to hire professional help for the occasion.

Catering Tips

2008-11-05T12:22:00.001-08:00

Whether you have been hired to cater a small party or a large wedding, Catering is challenging and rewarding. There are several things that are important to know before you begin, if you are to be successful in this competitive business. Often tricks to catering require time and money, but the effort is worth it after you have pulled off a successful and memorable event, and to get your name out there as a reputable caterer. The more knowledge you are armed with before you begin the better, so be sure and do your research.

First and foremost, make sure your permits, licenses, and insurance policies are up to date and valid. Unexpected situations arise, and you need to be prepared and covered. Request letters of recommendation from satisfied clients, so that you can present them to others when requested. You are more likely to be hired if a client can see that previous people have been happy with your work. A good reputation can make all the difference.

Communication is key to a successful catering venture. Be sure that everyone is on the same page and that you are not confused in any way about what is expected. Know the details of the event. It is important to know the catering trends of your area. Make inquiries into what foods are popular for what events, so that your menu offers appropriate choices that will fit the occasion. It's a good idea to offer taste testing as well, so that you can prove the quality of your selections. Caterers should offer different kinds of service styles as well, so that client can choose which best fits their event. With time, effort, and attention to detail, you can successfully cater any event.

Common Culinary Herbs In Caribbean Cooking

2008-11-04T15:38:00.001-08:00

Caribbean cuisine is a veritable, culinary melting pot. Comprised of just about every ethnic culinary tradition, it is impossible to define it in terms of a traditional dish as each island has its own culinary specialties and cooking styles. Nonetheless, if there is one culinary tradition that permeates throughout the diversity of these isles, it is the liberal, yet subtle, use of herbs.

Caribbean cuisine evolved from the practices of the humble homemakers who relied on the daily availability of fresh ingredients. Hence, it is the reason why Caribbean cuisine is so noteworthy for its use of fresh vegetable, fruits, grains, meats, and herbs that flourish everywhere in the wild throughout the isles. Indeed, no dish is complete without the taste and aroma of fresh herbs.

Bouquets of thyme, parsley, chives, oregano, bay, sage, and chadon beni or shadow beni, reminiscent of cilantro, comprise what the islanders refer to as seasonings. As prime ingredients in marinades, rubes, sauces, and dressings, these seasonings are used so subtlety and uniquely as to render them invisible to even the most sophisticated culinary palate. So magically are they incorporated in dishes, that one might believe in culinary voodoo. Indeed, the typical exclamation upon first-bite of this atypical cuisine is "what is that?!!"

Well it might just be thyme. As one of the most common and versatile herbs used worldwide, it’s little wonder that this humble, simple-to-grow herb has inserted itself into the melting pot of the culinary styles of the Caribbean Isles. As the featured herb in the famous Jamaican jerk rub, thyme is so popular in the Caribbean that it grows wild and in domesticated gardens as either fine-leaf thyme or Spanish thyme.

Those Caribbean Spices

2008-11-03T13:04:00.000-08:00

A person has to be very skillful to cook Caribbean food. What makes the food so tasteful is when it is cooked on a wood fire or a coal stove (both methods are cooked outside). When the food is cooked this way, it brings out the wonderful flavor of the spices.

Scotch Bonnet Pepper is a pepper that you have to respect and love. It is very, very hot; if you drank water behind it your mouth will feel hotter and hotter, and sometimes a person has to let the spice of Scotch Bonnet Peppers calm down on its own. However, a slice of bread or a glass of milk should decrease the heat of the pepper.

Not only do Caribbean spices put wonderful flavors in your food, but they are also good for you, too. These spices that you cook with also have healing properties.

Papaya is good for your stomach. Thyme is good for when you have a headache. Lemon grass, better known as fever grass, helps to break a fever. Nutmeg relaxes you so you can go to sleep with ease; you will wake up the next day feeling fresh.

When you use the nutmeg, it is not wise to use it every night, too much of anything is not good for you.

Have you ever had dreadnut milk, or do you know what dreadnut milk is? Dreadnut milk is coconut milk; this is what the Rastafarians cook in their food.

Rastafarians only eat vegetarian food, thus no form of meat. All the spices that they use definitely brings out the flavor of any vegetables. Dreadnut milk replaces animal (cow or goat) milk. Usually, rice and peas are cooked with dreadnut milk. Next time you are in the Caribbean, ask for food that is cooked with dreadnut milk.

How to Choose a Caterer

2008-11-02T13:02:00.000-08:00

Signing up with a caterer that wins your loyalty and helps pull off your exceptional event takes a great deal of research. However, once you have selected a dependable catering supplier, your difficult task is done. You are required to remain in communication with your caterer, and as the event draws near, you can take it easy, relax and focus on other features of your festivities.

One of the most helpful tools in the arrangement and implementation of an event is a comprehensive timetable. Depending on the environment and time-span, a schedule covering each event, from the original set-up to the breakdown needs to be very precise. Larger parties may need 100 or more staff members to coordinate these schedules.

Caterers have to deliberate numerous aspects before completing the arrangements. If the occasion is held outside, the caterers might need additional time to get the area set up, depending on the tables, tents and layout that are needed.

It is important to keep in mind that some caterers have more than one function per day. This means that you and your guests should leave the premises as soon as the event is concluded. This will allow the catering staff the time to execute the clean up according to their timetable.

Prior to the occasion, the catering staff requires time to inspect the menu and settle on what to order. Visual software may help to support a big part of this adventure.

The kitchen personnel can effortlessly develop other methods to be appropriate to allow for any number of guests. Once the working party has the correct recipes, it’s easy to see what others need to order to complete the menu.

Caribbean Cooking Styles

2008-11-01T13:01:00.000-07:00

When most people think of the Caribbean Islands, they don’t think of the different cultural flavors they might use. Although they do use some of the same types of things, such as papaya, coconut, mango and other types of exotic fruits, they really have very different types of cooking techniques and styles. Those different tastes and styles stem from the history of the Islands. For instance the Island of Guadeloupe, Haiti, Martinique and Hispaniola have a French type cuisine. The Dominican Republic and Cuba are influenced by Spain because they were colonized by the Europeans. Jamaica style of cooking is influenced by a smorgasbord of countries; Spain, China, Africa and India.

Jamaica is known for its spicy food made with their spicy jerk rub. This is used as a dry rub for their meats, like chicken, pork, fish, steak and many other foods. Cuba is known for its yummy beans and rice. The islands with a French cuisine influence love to serve up Creole and other French cooking techniques. The Cayman islanders are famous for their great tasting chocolate cake with an added touch of spicy peppers. Barbados loves the flying fish with cou cou which is a side dish made with okra. The Bahamas love to cook with conch, which is shellfish type seafood. Although the Caribbean Islands have different types of cooking styles the do have one favorite ingredient in common. That is rum.

Anywhere you go in the Caribbean you will find some special and unique types of cuisine that will entice your taste buds for sure.

Caribbean Cooking

2008-10-31T11:49:00.001-07:00

The blended melting pot of Caribbean cooking has been influenced by many cultures and backgrounds. Native people, European colonizers, imported slaves, workers from India and China and the middle easterners all help in the culinary delights that are known as Caribbean cuisine. In the past the women of the Caribbean had a limited amount of supplies available to them so they pretty much cooked what they had, but added island spices to make them more distinguished. Local staples for the islands include fresh fish, vegetables, fruits and chicken. The use of coconut milk in particular to prepare fresh local food is the core of Caribbean cooking. Lime is a favorite in marinades and in cooking fish with onions and fresh herbs. Each island uses their own culture and style to establish cooking techniques. Cuba has the black beans and rice, conch is from the Bahamas, Trinidad boasts dishes with curry, chicken with rice from Puerto Rico and of course the Creole cuisine of St. Marten and Martinique.

West Africa introduced okra, pigeon peas, plantains and taro to the islands. While the Spanish brought chick peas, cilantro, eggplant, onion and garlic. Rich coffee, rice, oranges, limes and mangoes came from the European areas such as Portugal, Britain and France. Mexico brought along the papaya, avocado and cocoa. All of these help the Caribbean cuisine become so varied and interesting.

Other dishes that make one think of the islands would be jerked chicken, crab Creole, frijoles Negros, callaloo and banana curry. Of course there is the hot chili oil and peanut sauces that give an unmistakable flavor to the Caribbean cooking also.

Popular Caribbean Dishes

2008-10-30T11:32:00.000-07:00

Popular Caribbean dishes are as varied as the islands themselves. However, there are a few staples that you find throughout the islands, and several dishes that are as popular here in the US as they are in the Caribbean.

The Caribbean Islands have an abundance of fresh fish and seafood available to them, so it’s no surprise that many of the most popular dishes feature these delicacies. Coconut Shrimp is a tropical dish that has gained popularity in the States as well. Season your shrimp with salt, and then dip in evaporated milk, beaten eggs, then in a combination of cracker meal and grated coconut. Fry in oil until crisp. The complete recipe can be found at www.islandflave.com.

Another popular Caribbean dish is Arroz Con Pollo, Chicken with Rice. This recipe combines chicken, chicken stock, rice, and tomato sauce with saffron, onion, and garlic. Rice and chicken are staples of Caribbean cooking and can be found in countless popular dishes. The full recipe for Arroz Con Pollo can be found at www.world-recipes.info/caribbean.

Popular dessert dishes on the Islands make use of the abundance of fresh fruit, such as baked mangos or baked bananas. A fresh fruit salad or cold fruit soup also makes a light sweet ending to any meal. Try Coconut Ice for a unique tropical dessert. This recipe uses scalded milk, coconut, one egg yolk, cream of tartar, sugar, and almond extract. After freezing the mixture, you break it apart with a fork and serve immediately. The exact recipe for this delicious treat can be found at www.islandflav.com. Try a popular Caribbean dish today - they are surprisingly easy to make and bring a taste of the islands to your table.

Catering Began in China

2008-10-29T11:45:00.001-07:00

Catering is defined as providing food at a remote site. If this is the true definition, then a small, out of the way restaurant or cafe could be considered a caterer. Catering actually began in China between 2650 and 1450 BC, during a time when Egypt was prospering.

The art of preparing and serving food and drink at that time was very important. A lord, king, or someone of wealth would have been judged by the food they served to their guests.

Monasteries in the middle ages catered to traveling Christian pilgrims in much the same way, with the exception of the food served. The food was simple. It was mainly what was grown, raised or gathered in the area. The same is true for the early inns and hostels that arose mainly for the soldiers on roads along trade routes and military roads.

The French word for caterer is "Traituers" meaning cook-caterers, which also was the name they used for the people who would carry the food to the tables. It is suggested that the actual art of catering began in France around 1559. First it was just weddings and banquets that were catered. As time went on and the natural economy was replaced by the money economy, caterers would deliver the food to whomever wanted to pay for it.

Of course the meal menus would vary according to what you could pay. They were much more well rounded for those of wealth.

In fact there were disputes among the "Restauranteurs" and "Traituers" as to what portions they could sell along with what class of clientele they could sell to.

Cooking With the Flavors of the Caribbean

2008-10-28T15:20:00.001-07:00

The hallmark of Caribbean food is that it is born of the freshness and abundance offered on the islands. All ingredients are local and fresh. Staple ingredients are fresh chicken, fish, fruits, and vegetables and these are enhanced by the addition of localized herbs and spices. Caribbean flavor also has the uniqueness of combining fruits and vegetables with chicken and fish so that the meat flavor is enhanced and the presentation is colorful and exciting.

Fresh fruits that are identified with Caribbean flavor include papayas, guava, mangoes, coconut and apples. Limes are used in marinades for fish dishes. Each island in the Caribbean is known for a distinct style and flavor. The French Caribbean Islands are known for creole dishes, Trinidad for curry, and Jamaica, for Jerk flavor and cooking methods.

Spices in the Caribbean include nutmeg and allspice. While those spices are usually used in deserts in the United States, in the Caribbean, these spices make the distinct flavor found in main dishes. In the Caymans, peppers are used to spice up chocolate dishes. Islanders use blended sweet fruits such as oranges, papayas, and mangoes for marinades. Coconut milk is a base for stews and rum is often used as a flavor in all dishes.

Islanders prefer pork, goat, chicken and fish to beef. Rice and beans are staples and easily absorb the spices used to flavor a main dish. Cooks interested in bringing the Caribbean to their table may want to stock their pantries with pre-made essentials such as adobo for meats and fish, achiote oil for rice dishes and sofrito, which may be added to any dish.

Catch the Island Flavors in Your Kitchen

2008-10-27T11:40:00.000-07:00

Perhaps you have heard of Jerk chicken, frijoles negros, crab Creole or peanut sauce. These are the names of some popular Caribbean dishes. Chances are you would find them on four different islands, because West Africa, Spain, Portugal, Holland, Denmark, Britain, France have influenced Caribbean cooking through the years. Each island has specialties: Bahamas—conch; Cuba—frijoles negros; Jamaica—jerk; Barbados—flying fish and cou cou; Puerto Rico—chicken and rice dishes; Trinidad—curry recipes; St Bart’s—Creole cooking.

What makes Caribbean cooking unique? They use fresh food in combination with herbs and spices such as: allspice, nutmeg, thyme, curry, mint, sweet basil, mace, annatto, lemongrass, cloves, ground mustard, cinnamon, coriander seeds, sassafras, bay leaves, marjoram leaves, and ginger. Different peppers make different flavors: Black, white, cayenne, chili, Habanero (one of the hottest in the world) and Scotch Bonnet, each is unique.

In the tropics lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruit, mangos, papaya, coconut and breadfruit trees flourish. Fruit goes into chutneys, main courses and desserts. Island peoples have been importing herbs and spices for so long that all appear to be native. They use nutmeg in combinations. Sweet fruits mix with savory spices, such as oregano and garlic with citrus. Coconut milk can go into soups, stews and sauces. Coconut and ginger create a distinctive flavor. Allspice is a key ingredient in jerk. Chocolate cake with spicy peppers makes a memorable impression.

Island flavors cater to every taste. Adjusting spiciness is easy. Caribbean cookbooks and websites abound. If you are tempted by the island flavors, choose a couple of recipes and grab your apron.

Special Catering Requests

2008-10-26T11:40:00.000-07:00

When hiring a caterer for that special event, be it a wedding, sweet 16 party, or anniversary, it is important to pick someone that you can communicate with. If you have any changes or special requests in the beginning or down the road, there will be very little resistance or problems if you pick the right caterer. If you have chosen a caterer that does not return your phone calls, for example, this is most likely not the person you want for an event with special requests. If you have anyone attending your event with a food sensitivity or particular preference in food, the caterer really needs to be aware of these. A hands-on-caterer will be able to see to these needs and any others that may arise during your event.

Make sure to notify you caterer well in advance of any changes or extra special requests so that they can be handled quickly and efficiently. It is also very important to notify your caterer of any attendees with allergies to avoid any dangerous mishaps with allergic reactions. By keeping all these things in mind, you will be able to relax and enjoy your special day and ensure that the event runs smoothly and without difficulty. If you are having a small event, it will run much easier than a larger event due to the sheer difference in guest list size. Just remember to keep your cool and communicate with not only your caterer, but everyone involved with your event planning to make sure they are all coordinated, and everything for your special event should go nicely.

The Characteristics of Caribbean Style Cooking

2008-10-25T11:39:00.000-07:00

Food is always a subject that everyone talks about on a daily basis. Most people like to eat, some more than others. Some are picky about what food they would eat. Some would eat just about anything because they say "You only live once why not try everything?" The popular question that's always in every mind is "What am I in the mood to eat today?" Food a central focus especially when you are on vacation on an island, where there's Caribbean style cooking everywhere you look. Everything looks and smells so good you just want to try eating everything before the vacation is over.

Food plays a central role in family life and traditions in the islands. The cuisine of the Caribbean is like a cultural patchwork quilt. Each “patch” or dish represents the plentiful bounty of the islands. Nobody is left out when eating Caribbean food. Caribbean style cooking includes just about everyone's favorites -- seafood, chicken and steak -- prepared with the flavorful and colorful ingredients of the islands. The most popular dishes are coconut shrimp, jerk chicken pasta, chicken kabobs, ribs with guava BBQ sauce and Key Lime Pie. Imagine being on a beautiful island right above the waves, or even looking onto a pretty little garden, with a plate of this incredible food beside you.

Traditionally, cooking was done over wood or coal. Some people prefer the "old style" cooking because the flavor of the wood smoke passes into the food, giving it an awesome flavor. For holidays, festivals, and special family gatherings, cooks spend days preparing a menu for the spacial occasion. Caribbean style cooking has its own characteristics with all its wonderful colors and spices that are put into the food. There are so many different kinds of Caribbean foods that comes from different islands, all with their own traditional great taste.

Catering Tips for Your Next Party or Event

2008-10-24T11:44:00.001-07:00

The first and most important tip is staying organized. One of the best ways to do this is to make lists and a spreadsheet time table. Arrange your spreadsheet with the items that can be done ahead of time starting now, and list all the way to what has to be done on the days of the party. The more that you can accomplish ahead of time the more time you will have to enjoy the event.

Once you have organized where you will have the event and have made all the lists of the things you will need to do and the people you will invite, it is time to think about the menu. The occasion and time of day will help dictate whether you serve a meal or just hors d'oeuvres. Make a list of all the things you will need to buy or rent. Take into consideration food allergies or preferences that you know the guests might have. If you have a guest of honor, make sure to include his favorites.

Now it is time to shop around. Look for bargains on decorations, napkins, tablecloths, paper plates. Once you have this done a big chunk of worry is over.

A week before is a good time to get a final head count. You want to have enough food without wasting or running out. Leaving to get ice after the party has started takes you away from your guests and you should be enjoying the party as much as everyone else.

Traditional Caribbean Cooking: Herbs And Spices

2008-10-23T11:22:00.001-07:00

Just as America is the cultural melting pot, so is the Caribbean the culinary melting pot. It is impossible to define "typical" Caribbean cuisine. Cultures from around the globe have influenced the domestic kitchens of the Caribbean Isles. European colonizers, indentured workers from India and China, indentured slaves, and easterners have all contributed their own unique culinary traditions.

Consequently, each island is known for its own culinary dish. To the Bahamas is attributed ‘Couch’; to Cuba, ‘Black Beans and Rice’; to Trinidad, ‘Curry’; ‘Flying Fish and Cou Cou’ to Barbados; and ‘Jamaican Jerk’ seasoning to Jamaica. Nonetheless, what is both commonplace and unique to Caribbean cooking is its reliance upon a variety of spices and herbs.

Caribbean cooking evolved from the practices of women cooking in humble, household kitchens. The varieties of food ingredients were scarce and, being fresh, available only on a daily basis. Therefore, domestic cooks were forced to rely on a rich assortment of spices and herbs to lend both flavor and aroma to their dishes.

Consequently, if there were one common thread to define ‘Caribbean Cooking’ it would be the creative and unique ways of incorporating spices and herbs into each regional dish. The traditional spices and herbs that factor into Caribbean cooking include allspice, nutmeg, thyme, curry, mint, sweet basil, mace, annatto, lemongrass, cloves, ground mustard, cinnamon, black and white pepper, and ginger.

Regarding taste, it’s the way in which herbs and spices are used in each dish that distinguishes them as being "typically" Caribbean. This is because Caribbean cooks use them in unique ways that are otherwise "off-the-wall" from traditional uses. For example, nutmeg, typically used to flavor sweet desserts, is used in combination with other spices to create a variety of savory dishes. Likewise, allspice, used to flavor "Jamaican Jerk," is not a spice typically associated with meat marinades.

Caribbean Cuisine

2008-10-22T12:05:00.000-07:00

Caribbean cuisine is a combination of African, British, Spanish, Dutch, and Indian influences. These traditions were brought from the many homelands of the region's population. A typical dish, and one increasingly common outside of the area, is the jerk seasoned meats. it is a unique, spicy flavor. Some popular dishes are jerk pasta, coconut shrimp, chicken kabobs, BBQ ribs with guava sauce, and key lime pie. Guava is an orange to red tropical fruit about the size of a small lemon. It is used in pastas and jellies.

Caribbean food includes all of the favorites: chicken, seafood, and steak all prepared with the flavorful ingredients. The word jerk originally referred to the process of rubbing spices and acidic hot peppers into strips of meat in order to tenderize and preserve them. There are many combinations of jerk seasonings in the islands. Even though jerk is commonly used with chicken and pork, it is also excellent to use on fish. Most present day Caribbean island locals eat a diet that is reflective of the main ingredients of original early African dishes such as sweet potatoes, plantains, yams, bananas, and cornmeal.

Traditional Caribbean foods takes on many forms. Caribbean dining can be a feast of any number of their signature dishes. Nearly every dish is topped off with a rich blend of Caribbean spices. The internet is filled with many great Caribbean recipes that can be made at home. It would be a wonderful experience to eat at a Caribbean restaurant. Good Caribbean food can be found in a variety of places to include your own kitchen.

History of Catering

2008-10-21T11:47:00.001-07:00

The business of catering food and drink goes back a very long time. In China catering dates back to the fourth millennium. In Egypt catering dates back to 2650 to 1450 BC. All across Europe, the business of catering food, drink and hospitality spread to cater to various travelers. Catering was provided along different trading and military routes. You could find catering services along roads that were traveled by the public as well. Soldiers and Christian pilgrims, and farmers were among those who were served along these routes. Caravansaries were established in the Orient to serve travelers as well.

Catering Officers are also carried on many merchant ships, navy ships, cargo ships and cruise liners. The Catering officers are responsible for overseeing and managing the food and drink for the passengers aboard these ships. These officers are responsible for all aspects of buying the food, the preparation and the serving of meals to the passengers. They also take care of the menus and the dining areas.

Airline catering services were also established years ago. The very first kitchen to serve meals to its passengers was set up aboard a United Airlines flight in 1936. Today, these airline catering services are provided to nearly all public airline flights.

Today, in the United States there are catering services providing food and drink for many different events. There are catering businesses they have been established for over 60 years. These caterers can be found almost anywhere in the country. They can be found at weddings, parties, conventions. They serve food and drink either to dining tables or banquet style. They also can plan an event around a certain theme, such a color. The price for these services can range considerably depending on the how much effort is put into the catering event.

The business of catering food and drink goes back a long time in our history but to this day remains a very thriving business.

Large Event Catering

2008-10-20T11:52:00.001-07:00

When catering very large events it is very important to remember that every detail must be tended to throughout the process. The difference between catering a large event as opposed to a wedding is that the amount of guests is usually much larger. This in and of itself can make or break an event for anyone trying to plan it. Important things to consider are location, décor, and amount of guests. When planning a large event (i.e. charity party, awards show, etc.), it is important that all tastes involved are considered. You must be sure not to mix too many flavors so that you do not muddy your food choices. Stick to two or three colors so that you have complimented surroundings rather than chaotic surroundings.

Depending on the type of event, you will need to decide what type of flowers and how many you will need to have for the event. You can use taller or tree like centerpieces for more elegant events, and smaller or floating centerpieces for more casual or seasonal events. Once you make a plan you need to stick to it, so as not to confuse the caterer or mess up the tasks and items already completed for the event. If you take your time and plan ahead, your event will come out beautifully, it is also important to remember there will always be small problems, but if you stay calm and collected you will be able to cope with any problems that may arise and allow your guests and yourself to have a great event.

Ooh La La – The Bountiful Flavors of the Caribbean

2008-10-19T11:51:00.000-07:00

When the Caribbean Islands were discovered, it was by a couple of Native American tribes known as the “Arawaks” and the “Caribs.” Both tribes greatly influence the methods and ingredients used today in Caribbean dishes. The Arawaks discovered a method of cooking on a wood grate known as a barbacoa which today is called a barbecue. The Caribs loved their cuisine to be spicy and were known to use chili peppers to accent their meats and fish along with tangy limes. There were also many culturally diverse settlers who contributed as well. When you think of Caribbean cooking, a sense of many spices and sweetness comes to mind along with vibrant colorful displays of palate pleasers.

Each of the different regions contributes to the vast amount of spices, herbs, fruits and vegetables available for their own delectable creations. Jamaica tops the list as the spiciest and most well known with their jerk-seasoned dishes produced from allspice. Although the different regions have different tastes, there are some foods that are used throughout the islands. These include hot peppers, tropical fruits such as guavas, papayas mangoes, pineapples, bananas, coconuts and limes as well as rice, beans, breadfruit and tostones. Some of the spices include annatto, nutmeg, tamarind, curry, tumeric, cloves and garlic to name a few.

With the central region of the island thrives with sugar cane, the important development of rum resulted for use in sauces, marinades and of course tropical drinks. The Caribbean is certainly a paradise and a desirable place to dine.