Holiday Warm Up!

I had a blast last night with my friends celebrating Winter Solstice at the Festival of Lights parade in Kensington Market. It was hella cold but with hot chocolate in hand, good music & even better vibes, it definitely got me in the holiday spirit. Wondering what Winter Solstice is all about? Check out the facts here.

Rather than dwell on the commercialism I find is so often associated with the holiday season, I prefer to remember what makes this time of year is so special: 1) the importance of being good to each other (everyday, not just during the holidays); 2) watching holiday TV specials, especially the classic cartoons (pat yourself on the back if you remember the claymation versions of Jack Frost & Santa Clause Is Comin’ To Town); and 3) spending quality time with your family & friends. And part of that quality time will include enjoying some traditional West Indian food & drinks.

This year I’m stepping outside of my comfort zone and will try to make some of those dishes myself (don’t worry mom, it’ll be okay, lol). Here are a few reasons why I feel ready:

1) I’ve Got The Time. I’ve taken some much needed time off work and think exercising my creativity in the kitchen will be therapeutic. I mean, it’s better than sitting on the couch, doing nothing with my life, watching Everest College commercials. Just saying. 😉

2) I’m West Indian! Of course I’m a proud Canadian (Nova Scotian/Jamaican), but I was raised by my Jamaican mom. Also, my closest friend, that I grew up with is Trinidadian & my boyfriend is Trinidadian/Grenadian. And what kind of West Indian would I be without making at least one of our cherished and delicious traditional meals?  Nuff said!

2) I Cook (& Bake), Therefore I Am. I’m a great cook and used to bake a lot back in the day. I also come from a family with exemplary culinary skills (shout out to my Uncle Colin, the Executive Chef & my great-grandmother who had her own catering business). I’m very lucky to be surrounded by excellent cooks. In fact, I even know a special lady whose maiden name was “Cook”. So it only makes sense that I should be able to throw down in the kitchen. More importantly, my 2  favorite guys have asked for some tasty treats this holiday season, so I’m putting my apron on!

Bring on the Punch De Creme, Black Cake & Pastelles, it’s time for a holiday warm up! Wish me luck!

In the spirit of the season, I thought I’d share a few recipes. Just click on the link and try something new. I guarantee these ambrosial delights will warm up your holidays.

• Punch De Creme
  
• Grenadian Spice Cake
  
• Pastelles
• Black Cake
• Sorrel
• Ackee & Saltfish

• Brown Sugar Ribs w/Mashed Sweet Potatoes

P.S. Unfortunately there isn’t a link for the ribs recipe as it was prepared by our good friends Dina & Brian. Recently they spoiled us with their hospitality and prepared one of the most delicious meals I’ve ever tasted…highly recommended! Check out Dina’s recipe & pic:

Meat Rub – You’ll Need:

1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp of onion powder
1/4 cup paprika
1 tbsp Cayenne
1 tbsp black pepper
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp chilli powder
1 tbsp fresh garlic or powder garlic

Rib Sauce – You’ll Need:

1  1/2 cup of tomatoes Juice
1/4 cup of Ketchup
2 tablespoons vinegar
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
3 tablespoons of crushed Garlic (or 3 cloves)
4 tablespoons of minced onion (or onion powder)
1 tablespoon Worchester Sauce
1 teaspoon Dry Mustard
1 teaspoon of Cayenne Powder
1 teaspoon of Salt
2 teaspoon of Paprika

STEPS:

1) Blend ingredients for Meat Rub & coat ribs. Refrigerate overnight.

2) Preheat Oven to 350 degrees. Bake for 3 hours in shallow roasting pan.

3) Drain fat and brush often with sauce until tender & ready.

4) Serve with grilled shiitake mushrooms.

Mashed Sweet Potatoes – You’ll Need:

4 large sweet potatoes (approximately 6 cups cubed)

1/4 cup butter or margarine

1/2 cup milk

STEPS:

1) Wash & clean sweet potatoes & cut them in 1-inch square cubes.

2) Put the sweet potatoes into a large pot. Add enough water to cover over them.

3) Bring to a boil over high heat & boil for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are soft. Use a spoon to skim off and discard any foam that develops.

4) Drain in a large colander, then return them to the pot.

5) Add butter or margarine & milk. Mash with a potatoes masher until creamy and smooth.

6) Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot.

What’s your favourite holiday dish?

I’d love to try it so leave a comment & tell me about it!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

xoxo/Nay

If you’re loving these vivid, feel good, thought-provoking words, SUBSCRIBE & never miss a Piece!

© Nia’s Piece, 2009

NavyJade.com