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Trini Pelau Chicken Recipe: Quick and Easy Caribbean Recipes

by captaintim on May 23, 2013

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Trini Pealu is one of those quick and easy Caribbean recipes that brings forth the flavor of the Caribbean. Trini Pelau is an iconic Caribbean dish, from Trinidad, and is made with pigeon peas (gandules), meat and coconut milk. It has been described as a Trinidadan version of Pilaf, but it is much more than that. It is a one-pot dish, so perfect for those busy weekday nights! Or prepare over the weekend, and serve through the week!

Ingredients:

3 lbs. of chicken thighs and or drumsticks, cut up into large pieces
2 Tbsp green seasoning
2 tsp grated garlic
1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 Tbsp soy sauce
1 Tbsp ketchup
Salt and pepper to taste
2 Tbsp vegetable oil
3 Tbsp cane sugar (substitute with brown sugar)
2 cups rice, washed and drained
3/4 cup chopped onions
1/2 cup chopped sweet peppers
1 cup diced carrots (optional)
2 cups pigeon peas canned
2 cups fresh coconut milk (dilute milk with water if using canned coconut milk)
2 cups cooking liquid (stock, water or reserved cooking liquid from peas)
1 whole scotch bonnet pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup sliced green onions (white and green parts)

Preparation:

Create a marinade from the green seasoning, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce and kitchen and soak the chicken in it. Allow to marinate for at least one hour (overnight is good).
Pour oil into a large pot and place on medium high heat. Let oil heat until hot but not smoking.
Sprinkle the sugar into the oil in an even layer. When the sugar begins to froth and bubble add the chicken and stir so that the burnt sugar coats the chicken. ** This is key to the success of this dish. Cook for approximately 10 minutes.
Add the rice to the pot, stir to mix and cook for 3 minutes.
Add peas, pepper and carrots (if using) and cook for 1 minute.
Pour in coconut milk and other cooking liquid. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add peppers if you are using. Cover pot and bring to a boil.
When the pot comes to a boil, remove lid partially and let boil until you can see the surface of the dish – the rice, peas and chicken (about 7 – 8 minutes). Cover pot fully, reduce heat to low or simmer and let cook for 25 – 30 minutes or until all the liquid has evaporated.

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The Crew’s Top 5 Things to Do in Western Puerto Rico

by captaintim on May 21, 2013

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There are so many things to do in western Puerto Rico. Even if you are staying in the eastern or metro San Juan region, a drive out to the west coast is well worth the trip and will give you an inside glimpse to a whole different Puerto Rico. The western side of Puerto Rico is much drier – you will see lots of cactus and the days will be hot and sunny, rather than humid like the eastern half of the island. Going to the West for a roadtrip or mini-vacation is a favorite pastime of the Crew at Caribbean Trading Company. After many years of trips out there, here is our list of the Top 5 Things to Do in Western Puerto Rico:

1. Rincon

Rincon is considered the mecca of surfing. Hosts of the 1968 Surfing Championships, and this year a host of the RipCurl Pro Tour, it is considered the surf capital of the Caribbean. There are several beaches with great surfing, and it is known for it’s consistent excellent waves. For a real unforgettable scuba diving and snorkeling experience then book a tour to Mona Island or Desecheo Island, two of the offshore uninhabited islands of Puerto Rico where you can explore a colorful and healthy underwater world.The vibe in this town is very relaxed and chill – grab a breakfast burrito and head to the beach to watch the sun rise and then hit the waves! This area is great for a weekend stay- there are lots of little shops, great restaurants, a fun nightlife, and lots of great beaches to keep you busy.

2. Guanica and Gilligan’s Island

Located on the Southwestern area, this

You can visit the Guanica State Forest, a Biosphere Reserve where you can hike, or take a scenic drive through the subtropical forest and roads along the coast with spectacular Caribbean Sea views. Also, take the ferry out to Gilligan’s Island, a small island off the coast and part of the Reserve. It is perfect for children and has excellent snorkeling.

3. Cabo Rojo – Salts Flats and the Lighthouse

Cabo Rojo is located in the Southwestern point of Puerto Rico and is known for its’ Salt Flats. Upon arrival, you can take an interpretative tour and there is a lookout tower as well. The lighthouse is the most scenic location on the island of Puerto Rico. No words to describe the beauty of this place, you just have to get there to see it. Photographers’ haven, great sunsets.

4. Mayaguez – Home of the Brazo Gitano

Mayaguez is the 3^rd largest city in Puerto Rico, and has some great cultural offerings. Granted, it is difficult to find your way around the city if you are unfamiliar with it, but it is worth the effort. First off, enjoy a Brazo Gitano direct from the source. Click here for more info. Also worth visiting is the Zoo, great for children, or visit the Tropical Agricultural Research Station where you can walk their parks filled with all manner of tropical fruits and flowers.

5. Aguadilla -

Aguadilla is fast becoming a tourist attraction in it’s own right these days, fueled by the International Airport located there. It also is known for its’ excellent beaches, particularly Crash Boat with its’ crystal clear waters, and the surfing is stellar. Gas Chambers and Wilderness are also excellent beaches. It particularly makes our list because of the many activities that are great for kids. It’s Parque Acuático Las Cascadas is a modern aquatic theme park, and the biggest in the Caribbean. There is also a skate park and the Aguadilla Ice Skating Arena (tel. 787-819-5555), the only ice skating facility in the Caribbean region.

Bonus #6: The Sunsets. The Sunsets on the west coast are a sight to behold, and each time we go there we are on the lookout for that green flash you get when the sun hits the horizon – and more often than not, one will see it. Filled with brilliant colors of orange and reds, the sunsets are not to be missed!

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San Andres And Providencia Islands: Wonderful Locations To Visit

by captaintim on May 16, 2013

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Providencia Caribbean

San Andres, which is only approximately 150 km away from Nicaragua and is located only 800 km in the northeast part of Colombia, is one of the island regions in the Caribbean that faces a lot of isolation. This island, together with two other islands that are located in the southern area; and five others that are located in the northern part of this country and have atolls that are not inhabited; are part of the archipelago. It is an ideal location for honeymoons and wedding ceremonies thanks to its spectacular sights such as the small cays and scattering sandbanks.

The nearest cays to San Andres, namely the magnificent Haynes Cay and Johnny Cay, which are easy to access by using small-scale vessels since they are only approximately two kilometers away from it, are at the end of the horizon on the northeastern part of this island. Bolivar Cay, which is the most amazing islet of San Andres Tropical Island, is only sixteen nautical miles to its southwestern part. This islet is very popular with snorkelers and scuba divers thanks to the coral reefs that surround it.

San Andres, which is a seahorse shaped island, is the leading holiday destination and primary isle in the archipelago thanks to the exotic white sand beaches that flank it. This island, which is a historical volcanic landscape, has an accumulation of coralline tiers that are more than one thousand years old and numerous coconut palm trees. In order for tourists to travel away from its mainland and go towards its adjoining cays, they use jetties and its international airport for arrival and departure but they have to apply for passport beforehand to make this possible.

Providencia Island on the other hand seems like a very different country and not just a world aside because it is quieter thanks to its smaller size. This island, which is located 90 km to the northern part of San Andres, is only 17 square kilometers and was known as Old Providence in the olden days. It helps in making the whole archipelago an ideal location for scuba divers and snorkelers by offering similar rich marine life, extensive coral reefs, and turquoise sea to that of the San Andres Island. This island is the second largest in the archipelago.

Although the beaches in Providencia Island, which include Bahia Manzanillo, Bahia Suroeste, and Bahia Aguadulce, that are located at its southern end, are gorgeous, they rarely receive visitors because they are tiny. The shoreline of this island has numerous other idyllic stretches and tiny white sand bays. This island , which is one most isolated regions in the Caribbean just like the San Andres island, has open sided restaurants that are not only calypso shrouded but also offer exceptional service. Time is one of the least important concerns in this quiet island because it allows its visitors to enjoy their lives at a leisurely pace.

Just like the San Andres Island, Providencia Island is the ideal location for honeymoons and wedding ceremonies because it has spectacular sights such as small cays and sandbanks.

Owing to the aforementioned unique features, the San Andres and Providencia islands are the most wonderful locations to visit and all that people need to do is to apply for passport.

About the Author: Ellen Nicola is an expert author who specializes in the provision of overviews about the leading and outstanding holiday destinations across the world in order to enable travelers to make wise choices. She has a wealth of experience that spans more than 10 years.

So Many Things to Do in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

by captaintim on May 14, 2013

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There are so many things to do in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico – where does one begin? There are infinite possibilities to fit every mood and interest, but the crew here at Caribbean Trading Company have some personal favorites. Here’s some of the local spots that we return to time and again in the town of Rio Grande in Puerto Rico…

Rio Grande is located in the Northeastern corner of Puerto Rico, about 35 minutes from San Juan.

1. Palmer

An on-the-cusp artisan community, there are many things to do in Puerto Rico’s El Yunque Art District with a couple of boutique stores, artisan galleries, a bakery, deli, juice bar, and post office. Easily spend a couple of hours exploring. Well, and of course, you should visit us at the Caribbean Trading Company Store. As a Crew we all do our gift and souvenir shopping here – from holidays to celebrations to souvenir-buying, you can always find the right gift to give. Check out some of our reviews on Trip Advisor! Conveniently located at the foot of Rt 191 to El Yunque Rainforest so stop by to visit us on your way to El Yunque Rainforest or Luquillo.

2. El Yunque Rainforest

Between the whole crew, we’ve pretty much tried all of the trails. Different trails work for different reasons, there are many things to do in Puerto Rico’s El Yunque. In particular, we highly recommend the trip up Rt 191 – this main entrance has the Visitors Center and several trailheads and some great waterfalls and watchtowers and vistas along the way. Take it to the top and then pick the spots you liked the best on your way up. When it’s raining, don’t swim in the rivers, but if you take a drive up there you’ll see waterfalls along the road you wouldn’t normally see otherwise. South 191 is a little less centrally accessible but has a great new recreation area along the river that is perfect for a picnic and some great trails.

3. Rio Grande’s Beaches

Rio Grande offers a couple of beaches outside of the Resorts. Of course, the beaches to be found at the Resorts are excellent, particularly St.Regis Bahia Beach and the Wyndham Rio Mar. But if you are just in the area, then consider a visit to Coco Beach or Las Picuas. Coco Beach is not a great swimming beach, it is much better for beachcombing and fishing. The beach is located where to Rio Espiritu Santo meets the ocean so there are beautiful mangroves and plenty of wildlife to observe. Las Picuas beach is located past the Rio Mar resort and one can park on the street and take one of the beach paths over to the beach. It is a very calm beach and is ideal also for beachcombing. It is very popular with the locals, especially during the summer and local holidays.

4. Golf and Spa at Rio Grande’s Resorts

There are three excellent resorts to be found in Rio Grande and they are wonderful places to stay. But even if you are not staying at one of the resorts, you very well may want to consider them for your Golf or Spa needs. The spas are all world-class, but it is the golf courses that really shine. For example, Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed the Bahia Beach courses, Tom Fazio designed the course at Rio Mar, and Tom Kite designed the four 9-hole courses at Coco Beach in Rio Grande. And, even the Pros come here to play every year at the PGA Puerto Rican Open at the Trump International Golf Club at Coco Beach.

5. Adventure Activities

Rio Grande is host to several adventure companies that provide adventure activities. Hacienda Carabali offers horse-back riding, ATV’s, Mountain Biking, Ziplining, and Go Kart racing. Also, there are several ziplines available of which children are welcome. Check it out here.

Or you can kayak the Espiritu Santo River with local tour companies. Click here to visit their page.

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Celebrate Frog Jumping Day with Puerto Rico’s Coqui

by captaintim on May 9, 2013

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May 13^th is Frog Jumping Day! Well, this day was just made for Puerto Rico as we have an enduring love affair with the Coqui frog.

There are currently 18 known species of the coqui in Puerto Rico. The Eleutherodactylus coquí, or coquí común, is the most common species of coquí on the island of Puerto Rico. They are considered common because this species can be found throughout the island’s varying ecological zones.

As the sun begins to set on the islands of Puerto Rico, the coquí común emerges from its hiding place and begins his familiar cry: “CO-QUI (KO-KEY).” To some people, the sound is annoying and almost deafening: but to native Puerto Ricans, visitors to the island and scientists know that this is the special sound that tells us the island is alive and well. It is common for Puerto Ricans who live abroad to say that the one thing they miss most about the island is the call of the coquí in the evening.

Similar species have popped up in South and Central America, and were purposely wiped out in Hawaii as pests. But in Puerto Rico, they are considered a national icon and are the superstars of nocturnal noises. Puerto Rico has been their documented home since the native Taino Indians carved their like on stone engravings 600 years ago. The Taino Indian Symbol is repeated today in local artwork, as can be seen here. One of the island’s proud phrases, “Soy de aqui como el coqui” means “I’m as Puerto Rican as a coqui.”

The coqui can be found among artwork, in books and more. To get your coqui and to celebrate Frog Jumping Day, here are some items that are sure to fit the bill:

Coqui in My Shoe Children’s Book:

In this story, a young boy named Armando surprisingly discovers a coquí in his red shoe. Carlito the Coquí is lost and cannot find his way home to the rain forest. Here’s an educational and entertaining lesson, not only on Puerto Rico’s beloved amphibian, the Eleutherodactylus coqui, but also on Puerto Rico’s environment, geography, history and culture. There are also several appendices with references, other fun facts and a complete list of the 18 known species of coquís. Perfect for a home or school library. For children ages 5 – 12.

Coqui Fire Hot Sauces

Made on the island of Vieques in Puerto Rico, these hot sauces bring the fire. Every sauce is made with fresh natural ingredients found here in the Caribbean, and it is approved by the coquis before going into production.

Coqui Coffee Mug

Celebrate the coqui with this fun mug! A perfect pairing with Puerto Rico’s fine coffee and tropical teas!

Coqui Plush Toy with Sound Chip

This 8″ COQUI PLUSH version will hang almost anywhere just like a real coqui. The suction cups are on each foot, and they will not damage any surface. Shows off the Puerto Rican flag for all to see! To hear the song of the coqui, squeeze the belly of the frog.

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Incentive Gift Ideas for Destination: Beach

May 7, 2013

Incentive travel is an important component of a company’s incentive and motivation program. The gift of a unique experience has an enduring impression, and remains as one of the top motivators for employees. Incentive Gifts on the trip are an important way to reinforce and remind the recipient’s of their trip and how they got there. [...]

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Artisan Corner: Master Ceramist Puerto Rican Artisan Nicolas

May 2, 2013

As part of our search to bring people new and exciting Caribbean art, every year we attend the famous (or infamous!) San Sebastian Festival in Old San Juan. This festival marks the end of the holiday season and isPuerto Rico’s version of Carnaval. All of the streets are shut down and there is music and art [...]

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The St. Regis Bahia Beach has lots to offer…

April 30, 2013

The St. Regis Bahia Beach has been open for just over two years now and it remains one of the brightest new stars in Puerto Rico’s resort portfolio. In the last couple of months, it was announced that the property had earned AAA’s Five Diamond Rating. According to the resort, “Since 2011, only five other [...]

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Events in Puerto Rico May 2013

April 25, 2013

May is a great month to visit Puerto Rico! There are so many things to do in Puerto Rico in May. May is the beginning of the summer season, where the weather is lovely – the sultry days haven’t hit yet, and it is prime weather for enjoying all that Puerto Rico has to offer. [...]

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Vejigante Masks: A Puerto Rican Tradition

April 23, 2013

The Vejigante (Vay-he-GAHN-tay) is a fantastic, colorful character introduced into carnival celebrations in Puerto Rico hundreds of years ago from medieval Spain., and is still an important part of Puerto Rican culture today. During the carnival celebrations in Loiza, Aldea and Ponce, the Vejigantes roam the streets in groups and chase children with their vejigas [...]

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