Eating My Fill of Fruits

It may seem strange to talk about summer when the Caribbean enjoys summer-like weather all-year round. However, we do feel the difference in the atmosphere as it is hotter at this time of the year, and fruits, especially favourites like mangoes, pineapples, and a variety of melons are plentiful.

Friends with fruit trees share their bounty, so too do neighbours. Buying fruits at this time of the year is a bargain. I bought cantaloupe for as little as BDS $1-dollar per pound. This is the perfect time of the year to cook, eat and drink fruits. Don't forget to puree some of it and freeze so that you can make your favourite desserts and drinks until the season comes around again.

Read more...

Mrs. Cummings' Swiss Roll

Several years ago I happened to find myself in a pastry shop and saw that they had some perfectly sliced Swiss Rolls in their showcase. I immediately ordered not one but two slices and raced home. The setting had to be right for the feasting on the Swiss Roll - feet up, relaxed, a beverage of choice and no pressing tasks or chores at hand. I was about to take a trip back in time so it was important that I be prepared. I had to be present in the moment. I took a bite, closed my eyes and began to chew... I waited and waited and waited... Click here to read the rest of this week's column. Find out who Mrs. Cummings was and for the recipe to this most delicious Guava Jam Swiss Roll.

Have a good week everyone!

Read more...

Hey Good-looking! Thanks Guavas!

Have you had your guava today? Packed with Vitamin C (some scientists argue that it has more Vitamin C than Orange) and other nutrients, this is one of nature's gifts that you should not pass up when it is in season. Right now, in the Caribbean, we are enjoying a bountiful guava season! Click here to read the column and learn more about the health benefits of this fruit. Be sure to check out my previous posts on Stewed Guavas, Guava Jam & Guava Cheese.

I made a chunky-style jam and encased it in a rich short crust pastry, very similar to the Guyanese pine tarts.

On another occasion, I sliced the sweet flesh and made mini Guava Tart Breads and a loaf as well. I swapped out the apples from my friend Chuck's Apple Tart Bread by substituting with cups of sliced guavas. See the recipe here at the bottom of the column. Thanks Chuck.

And you don't have to ask, of course I make some drink :)

If you've never had guavas before, do give it a try.

Read more...