The Unique Challenges of Dressing for Hot Weather

Before diving into the fabrics, it’s essential to understand the environmental challenges posed by Caribbean weather. Temperatures often soar above 85°F (29°C) during the day, with high levels of humidity that can make even the lightest activities feel strenuous. Clothing that traps heat or clings to the skin can cause discomfort, while non-breathable fabrics can lead to sweating and irritation. Additionally, travelers and locals alike desire clothing that is not only functional but also reflective of the vibrant, colorful culture of the region.

To strike the ideal balance, always go for natural fibers, lightweight weaves, and moisture-wicking technology (they are key!). Below are a number of the great fabric options to recollect when making plans your cloth wardrobe for a Caribbean get away or every day tropical dwelling.

1. Linen

Linen is frequently regarded because it’s one of the best material for decent weather, and for really good reason. Made from the fibers of the flax plant, linen is known for its lightweight nature and superior breathability. The material’s loose weave permits air to flow into freely, retaining the frame cool even on the hottest days. Additionally, linen is rather absorbent and brief-drying, which enables wick away sweat and reduce stickiness.

In the Caribbean, linen apparel is a staple, ranging from informal button-down shirts and flowing attire to tailored trousers and shorts. Its certainly wrinkled texture provides to its appeal, giving it a comfortable but elegant vibe. While linen is available in a variety of colorings, lighter shades like white, beige, and pastels are in particular popular, as they reflect daylight and decorate cooling.

2. Cotton

We can’t forget cotton. Oh, the most picked option when it comes to clothes! The go-to for many, great softness, versatility and price. Basically, we all have a cotton outfit. Why? Because it’s very breathable, gentle on the skin and literally great for any weather: hot, cold, humid, dry. Adaptation at its best! Even the worst humid conditions, cotton is guaranteed to keep you dry.

Caribbean-inspired cotton shirts and garments often feature vibrant patterns, colorful prints, and lightweight designs. From breezy sundresses and loose-fitting tops to unlined jackets and beach cover-ups, cotton is a versatile choice for any occasion. For maximum comfort, opt for 100% cotton or fabrics labeled as “pure cotton,” avoiding blends with synthetic materials that can trap heat.

3. Chambray

Chambray, regularly mistaked with denim, is a lightweight cotton cloth that mimics the appearance of denim without its heaviness. This makes it a first rate option for those who love the casual aesthetic of denim but want something greater suitable for hot weather. Chambray’s nice weave and soft texture make it each breathable and cushty, ensuring you stay cool in the course of the day.

In the Caribbean, chambray is often used for informal shirts, clothes, and shorts. Its understated elegance pairs nicely with the comfortable surroundings of the area, permitting you to transition seamlessly from a beachside café to a town stroll.

4. Rayon

I’m sure you have heard about rayon at least once, especially if you’re a fashion enthusiast. So, what is it? Well, this fabric is a semi-artificial material crafted from cellulose fibers. What makes it so popular is that many people choose it since it’s extremely light and flowy, making it perfect for the Caribbean. Some even say it replicates the softness of herbal fibers (isn’t that great?). Besides that, it’s also great if you’re looking for something that can resist humid climates.

Coming back to the Caribbean, rayon is really popular: you can find it as a common attire in motels, resorts and for going out. Since it’s pretty elegant, it’s an amazing option for unique occasions or simply if you want to dance the night away. But one thing: you might want to wash it by hand, since it’s really vulerable to wrinkles!

5. Seersucker

Seersucker is a textured cotton cloth this is synonymous with summer. Its specific puckered surface creates small air wallet, improving breathability and reducing the need for ironing. This makes it an ideal choice for travelers looking for low-protection but stylish apparel.

Seersucker is commonly used for lightweight fits, clothes, and casual shirts, frequently in playful stripes or pastel hues that reflect the cheerful spirit of the Caribbean. Its durable nature and timeless attraction make it a fave amongst locals and visitors alike.

6. Silk Blends

Silk is amazing, and so beautiful to touch, right? While some people see it as “impractical” for weathers where it’s really hot (especially since it’s very delicate), it can be elegant and really good for keeping everything fresh and odor free. If you combine it with linen or cotton, it’s way more durable and easier to be taken care of, without loosing its smooth texture. Give it a try!

Silk blends are perfect for evening wear or formal occasions in the Caribbean, offering an air of sophistication without sacrificing comfort. They are also commonly found in lightweight scarves and wraps, which can double as sun protection during the day.

7. Performance Fabrics

We got you covered if you like outdoors. Hiking, cruising, you name it. Performace fabric is an amazing option for those that are always looking to optimize their outfits. Technical clothes like this are carefully designed to resist odors, protect you from the UV rays and moisture. That’s what make them great for this region!

A lot of men’s clothes for caribbean vacation are done with this style. Activewear and some tropical brands incorporate the fabric because they’re not only fashionable, but also very useful and practical. At the end, who doesn’t want clothes that dry fast or protect you from the sun, right?

Caring for Your Tropical Fabrics

Are you looking to extend the life of that amazing outfit you always love showing off? We got you covered too! So, how do you do that? Well, proper care is a must. Most of the previously mentioned fabrics (especially linen, cotton and rayon) can be prone to wrinkling. But not everything is lost: they can be fixed! All you have to do is wash them with cold water and let them dry so they can keep their shape and color. If it’s even more delicate, you can always take them to a professional. You must also be very careful when it comes to washing your t-shirt printing designs with Caribbean customized logos. Why? Because a reckless washing can damage your print!

Additionally, storing your clothing in a cool, dry place can prevent damage caused by humidity or mildew, ensuring your wardrobe stays fresh and ready for your next Caribbean adventure.

Conclusion

Caribbean vacation clothes must be functional and comfortable for everyone. They’re an expression of the region’s culture, but everyone wants something that won’t give them problems when wearing! That’s why incorporating such factors is a must whenever you’re choosing your outfit. So, embrace the Caribbean lifestily with Caribbean clothes for women or men that use fabrics that adapt your body.

It doesn’t matter if you’re walking around the beach, exploring beautiful sites or dining outdoors. Always remind this, okay? The right clothes is vital! Linen, cotton, rayon or chambray: you name it. They’ll help you stay elegant and comfy while enjoying the day.

The Significance of Caribbean T-Shirts

Caribbean t-shirts are more than just clothing; they are a reflection of the islands’ lifestyle and culture. The designs on these t-shirts often incorporate tropical elements like palm trees, sunsets, and vibrant colors that mirror the region’s natural beauty. These shirts capture the spirit of island life, evoking feelings of warmth, relaxation, and carefree living. Wearing a Caribbean t-shirt allows individuals to carry a part of the island with them, serving as a reminder of their connection to this unique and colorful part of the world.

The Colors of the Caribbean

One of the most striking features of Caribbean t-shirts is their use of bold, bright colors. The Caribbean is famous for its colorful architecture, from the pastel hues of houses in places like Cuba and Puerto Rico to the bright, tropical shades found in the natural landscape. T-shirts reflecting these colors allow wearers to showcase a vibrant palette that symbolizes the lively spirit of the islands. Bright yellows, greens, pinks, and oranges often dominate the designs, invoking the feeling of being under the warm Caribbean sun.

Tropical prints, such as palm trees, sunsets, and ocean waves, are also popular choices. These designs transport wearers to idyllic beachside retreats, where the cool breeze and gentle waves provide the ultimate sense of freedom. Whether a t-shirt features a minimalist design or a detailed, hand-drawn tropical scene, it embodies the carefree vibe that defines the Caribbean way of life.

Iconic Caribbean Symbols on T-Shirts

In addition to tropical designs, camp t-shirts often feature iconic symbols and motifs that represent the islands’ diverse cultures. From reggae music to carnival celebrations, these t-shirts are a tribute to the Caribbean’s rich cultural heritage. A popular design is the Jamaican flag, which reflects the country’s bold history and political movements. For fans of reggae music, a t-shirt featuring the likeness of Bob Marley, the genre’s most iconic figure, is an easy way to honor the island’s music legacy.

In Puerto Rico, t-shirts often feature symbols of pride such as the Puerto Rican flag, which represents the island’s heritage and its ongoing fight for autonomy. T-shirts featuring the flags of the Bahamas or Barbados celebrate the independence and rich cultural traditions of these nations. Each design tells a story, connecting the wearer to the people, places, and events that have shaped the Caribbean.

Another key feature of Caribbean t-shirt designs is the use of local wildlife. For example, the endangered sea turtle, known for nesting along Caribbean beaches, is a common motif. Other animal designs, such as tropical birds and dolphins, emphasize the region’s rich biodiversity and the importance of conservation efforts. These t-shirts help raise awareness about environmental issues affecting the islands, making fashion both fun and meaningful.

Materials and Comfort for the Tropics

When designing Caribbean t-shirts, comfort is just as important as style. The warm, tropical climate of the Caribbean calls for breathable, lightweight fabrics that keep wearers cool and comfortable. Cotton is the most commonly used material for Caribbean t-shirts because of its softness, breathability, and durability. Some t-shirts are even made from organic cotton, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainability in fashion.

For a slightly more luxurious feel, some Caribbean t-shirts are made with a blend of cotton and polyester, offering the benefits of both materials. Polyester is known for its moisture-wicking properties, making it perfect for hot and humid environments. Whether you’re strolling through a market, lounging on the beach, or enjoying a Caribbean night out, these shirts provide all-day comfort while keeping you looking stylish.

The Perfect Souvenir

For travelers, a Caribbean t-shirt is the ideal souvenir. Unlike other mementos, which might collect dust on a shelf, a t-shirt is something practical and wearable. Whether it’s a shirt from your favorite island or one that features a design you connect with, wearing it after your trip is a way to relive the memories. For tourists visiting the Caribbean, these t-shirts offer a chance to bring home a piece of the island’s culture and beauty.

One of the most fun aspects of Caribbean t-shirts is that they are often sold in local markets, giving visitors the chance to meet artisans and vendors who design and create these unique pieces of clothing. From small, independent shops to bustling street markets, there’s always an opportunity to find a shirt that speaks to you. Many of these designs are exclusive to certain islands, so you can be sure that your t-shirt is one-of-a-kind.

The Global Appeal of Caribbean T-Shirts

The appeal of Caribbean t-shirts extends far beyond the islands themselves. The global popularity of tropical fashion trends has brought the colors, styles, and symbols of the Caribbean to international markets. Caribbean t-shirts are now worn in cities around the world, from New York to Tokyo, as a way of embracing island culture and expressing a love for the tropics.

This global reach means that Caribbean t-shirts are not just a fleeting trend; they are a lasting part of fashion that celebrates the unique beauty and spirit of the islands. As more people from different cultures and backgrounds learn about the Caribbean, they are drawn to the authenticity, vibrancy, and optimism reflected in these t-shirt designs. So, next time you’re looking to buy an amazing tourist-themed t-shirt online, search no more! Instead, you’ll learn how to remove something from Google Search and simply write Caribbean Trading on your browser, ready to go and explore our site: we got the best tees for you here!

A Fashion Statement for Locals

While Caribbean t-shirts are popular with tourists, they are also beloved by locals. Wearing a t-shirt that represents one’s island pride is a common sight in cities, towns, and villages across the region. For locals, these t-shirts are not just souvenirs; they are a daily expression of their culture, identity, and pride in their home. Festivals and parades, such as the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival or the Junkanoo Festival in the Bahamas, often feature t-shirts with vibrant designs, allowing participants to show off their national pride while celebrating.

In addition to national pride, Caribbean t-shirts are also a way for locals to connect with their heritage and community. Whether worn casually or dressed up for a special occasion, these t-shirts offer a way to wear one’s cultural identity with pride.

Conclusion

Caribbean t-shirts are more than just pieces of clothing; they are a celebration of the vibrant, diverse, and beautiful region of the Caribbean. From the bold colors to the iconic symbols, these t-shirts embody the essence of island life. Whether you’re wearing one as a souvenir from a tropical vacation, as a daily expression of your love for the islands, or simply as a fashion statement, these shirts allow you to embrace the tropics wherever you go. By donning a Caribbean t-shirt, you are not just showing off your style but also carrying a piece of the island’s spirit with you, wherever life may take you.

Whether you are exploring the bustling streets of Old San Juan, walking through its varied shopping districts, or venturing into neighborhood markets, Puerto Rico offers a wide range of shopping opportunities for everyone.

As an American territory, Puerto Rico enjoys access to a blend of global brands while preserving the distinct Puerto Rican style. This combination of local and global influences is one of the key factors that make shopping on the island such a special experience.

This guide will take you on an exciting journey through the most traditional handicrafts, authentic souvenirs, and locally produced items that you must buy!

Shopping in Old San Juan

Old San Juan is one of the top chosen destinations for tourists in Puerto Rico. It also gives a truly wonderful opportunity for shopping, which you must not miss!

With its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial homes, and historic landmarks, Old San Juan offers a window into the island’s cultural essence. As you wander through its narrow streets, you’ll find many stores offering a wide variety of goods, ranging from small boutiques to large shops catering to all tastes.

One of the most popular activities in Old San Juan is exploring the selection of traditional Puerto Rican crafts. There is a wide range of items you must see there.

Artisans create stunning works, including hand-carved wooden santos (religious figures), vejigante masks (made from coconut husks or papier-mâché and used in festivals), and hand-crafted jewelry featuring local materials such as larimar and freshwater pearls.

If you are looking for something more stylish, there are numerous boutiques that showcase the best of the island’s neighborhoods. Local designers frequently incorporate elements of Puerto Rican culture into their work, creating summer clothes with unique accessories that reflect the island’s colorful spirit.

Malls and Shopping Centers

If you prefer large shopping centers over small local shops, Puerto Rico has several places that will suit any taste and budget. One of the most well-known shopping centers is Plaza Las Américas in San Juan, the largest shopping center in the Caribbean.

Plaza Las Américas offers a wide variety of stores, including luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci, popular department stores such as Macy’s, and an extensive selection of smaller specialty shops. The mall also offers a variety of dining options, featuring dishes from all over the world.

These shopping centers are not just places to shop; they are also cultural hubs. They regularly host events, art exhibitions, and live performances, making them vibrant destinations for both locals and tourists. Such places are perfect for an enjoyable vacation experience.

Another popular shopping destination is The Mall of San Juan, home to many high-end brands. This shopping center offers a distinct experience, with stores like Nordstrom, Coach, and Tiffany.

Local Markets and Artisanal Shopping

While malls offer convenience and a wide variety of products, local markets in Puerto Rico provide a unique and more personal shopping experience. These markets are the go-to spots to find unique hand-crafted items and local food products, often at more affordable prices.

One of the most famous markets is La Placita de Santurce, located in San Juan. By day, La Placita serves as a traditional market, a great place for locals to purchase produce. You can find tropical fruits like mangoes and papayas, as well as herbs, spices, and local delicacies like alcapurrias.

In addition to food, La Placita is also home to vendors selling crafts, homemade jewelry, and other artisanal goods. As night falls, La Placita transforms into a vibrant nightlife spot, with music, dancing, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy local traditions.

Another exceptional marketplace is Caribbean Trading, with shops located all over the island for tourists seeking top-notch hand-crafted products. Located in El Yunque, Rincón, and Palomino Island, you can find produce, plants, and artisanal goods.

In smaller towns throughout Puerto Rico, you can regularly find artisan fairs and local markets popping up, particularly on weekends or during festivals. These markets are an excellent place to discover the traditional side of Puerto Rico and its local customs.

Shopping for Local Products

Puerto Rico is home to a variety of products that make wonderful souvenirs or gifts for friends and family. There is truly something for everyone! You can find gifts for your children, some of the best Puerto Rican coffee, and even buy a bag (or two) of locally grown coffee beans.

The island’s mountainous regions, especially in areas like Yauco and Adjuntas, produce coffee with a rich, full taste that has been loved by locals and tourists alike for hundreds of years. Many local stores and markets offer this freshly roasted coffee, allowing you to take home a taste of Puerto Rico.

Another popular product is Puerto Rican rum. Known for its great quality, this rum is one of the island’s most famous exports. Brands like Bacardí and Don Q are well-known, although there are smaller artisanal rum producers on the island. You can find the one that best suits your taste.

Spices and seasonings are also an amazing selection of souvenirs for people who love to cook. Adobo, sofrito, and sazón are essential elements in Puerto Rican cuisine, and you can find them in markets across the island. These spices can be given as gifts to anyone, and they are highly appreciated.

Handmade crafts and souvenirs are another popular thing to keep in mind when deciding on gifts in Puerto Rico. From cute Coqui plushies to colorful ceramics, there is a wide variety of lovely and functional objects. Many of these products are inspired by the island’s history and natural beauty!

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Shopping

In recent years, there has been a growing trend toward sustainable and eco-friendly shopping in Puerto Rico. Many local shops focus on sustainability and offer products made from recycled or natural materials.

A good example of this is how some artisans create jewelry from recycled glass or make bags from recycled fabric. There are also shops that specialize in natural, locally sourced products, like apparel, skincare items, and household goods.

Farmers’ markets, such as the one in Old San Juan and others across the island, also sell locally grown produce and handmade farm-related goods. Shopping at these markets supports local farmers and artisans, reduces the carbon footprint associated with shipping items, and boosts the local economy.

Conclusion

Shopping in Puerto Rico can be an exciting experience! It offers everything: from high-quality luxury brands to traditional crafts that are locally made for tourists to bring home or offer as souvenirs to their loved ones.

Whether you’re wandering through the ancient streets of Old San Juan, exploring the large malls, or visiting a nearby marketplace, you will find that Puerto Rico’s shopping scene is as vibrant and diverse as the island itself.

With a combination of cultural heritage, modern trends, and eco-friendly practices, shopping in Puerto Rico is not just about buying an item: it is about immersing yourself in the island’s rich culture and taking a piece of that experience home with you.

All of these gifts and souvenirs that can be found in shops are the best way to ensure that you’ll be bringing a piece of the Caribbean to your house, which will make you remember this experience forever!

If you’re one of the few who hasn’t yet tried coconut oil, you are missing out on some great benefits that it has to offer, and that’s especially true when it comes to your skin and hair. Here’s some of the ways you can add coconut oil to your routine to capture the beauty benefits of coconut oil for silky, smooth skin and luxurious locks.

Skin

Coconut oil is rich in vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates, and is also high in fatty acids. These include a range of saturated fats and short- and medium-chain fatty acids, particularly lauric acid. These fatty acids make coconut oil very hydrating for your skin, and help to protect your skin’s barrier by preventing water loss.  Once it is absorbed into your skin, it’ll keep it smooth to the touch for a long period of time. Coconut oil makes a wonderful moisturizer for your legs, arms, and elbows.  If you have super-dry skin, applying coconut oil will definitely help rehydrate it.

The best way to benefit from coconut oil for your skin is to apply immediately after showering, when your skin is still moist. This will help trap water into the skin, leaving it supple and smooth with a pretty sheen. Our Caribbean Trading Coconut Body Oil is enriched with vegetable butter and extracts and will instantly rescue your skin from dryness caused by extreme dehydration and intense sun exposure. It naturally softens, smooths and hydrates the skin. This oil will nourish your skin and help promote elasticity, helping to diminish the signs of aging. 

Make Your Own Body Scrub

You can even use coconut oil to make your own body scrub for smooth, glowing skin. It’s super easy, and only needs two ingredients!

Mix together:

• ½ cup of Caribbean Trading Coconut Body Oil
• ¼ cup granulated sugar. Try Caribbean Trading’s gourmet flavored Lime Cane Sugar for a tropical treat (or any of the 5 varieties available)
• Lightly rub on arms and legs to exfoliate, leaving skin soft and silky!
• Store remaining scrub in a small container or jar to keep on hand for your next bath.

You can use coconut oil on your face, however, this isn’t recommended for those with very oily skin.  While it’s great for your arms and legs, it’s a comedogenic oil, which means it can clog pores due to its occlusive nature. This makes it great for sealing in moisture on your body, but on the face it can also trap dirt and bacteria leading to breakouts. Instead, dot a small amount lightly on areas of your face you’d like to give a little highlight to, like the top of your cheekbones, or massage it into your eyebrows.

Tip: Use coconut oil as a cuticle moisturizer! With all the handwashing we’re doing these days, you might find your cuticles are looking a little ragged and dry.  Rub coconut oil directly on top of them and allow it to  penetrate for about 30 minutes. This will help strengthen your cuticles and moisturize the skin around your nails. 

Hair

Another beauty benefit of coconut oil is that it can keep your hair healthy and strong. Coconut oil has long been used to achieve soft, smooth, strong locks and is great for treating dry or damaged hair. Coconut oil contains vitamins and essential fatty acids that nourish both the scalp and hair strands. It helps to keep hair strong, discouraging breakage. 

• Shine: Rub a few drops of coconut oil between your hands and smooth over your hair to achieve a beautiful, healthy-looking sheen. 

• Conditioning: Coconut oil can help strengthen the hair shaft and prevent breakage. Use it instead of a standard conditioner. To achieve even greater smoothing, add a few drops of coconut oil to your usual conditioner. 

• Pre-wash protector: Apply coconut oil approximately 15 to 30 minutes before you wash your hair, and it’ll stop your hair from soaking up too much water, which helps with damage and dryness.  Concentrate on the midsection and ends of your hair.

• Frizz Fighter:  Useful in moisturizing and preventing frizz by acting as a protective barrier. When applying, only apply about a dime-sized amount of coconut oil to your hair. Too much could weigh your hair down. Check out our Cold Pressed/Triple Filtered Coconut Oil to help tame those frizzies!

• Chlorine Combatant: Love to take a dip in the pool, but hate how chlorine makes your hair feel afterwards? Before diving into the pool, coat your hair with coconut oil.  The oil acts as a barrier between your strands and the water.

Once the fat is separated out, the beans are then milled and processed.  That is how both Cocoa and Cacao are made. So now, let’s explore what indeed makes them different.

What is cacao powder?

Cacao powder comes from beans that are processed at low temperatures and are considered raw. Once milled into powder, it contains much higher amounts of enzymes, minerals, and nutrients which is cacao powder. It has a more bitter taste than cocoa powder but offers more nutritional content and considered a more natural product which is very appealing to some. Cacao powder is packed with flavonoids. These nutrients have shown to help lower blood pressure, improve blood flow to the brain and heart, and aid in preventing blood clots. The flavonoids in cacao powder may help increase insulin sensitivity, reducing your risk of diabetes.

What is cocoa powder?

Cocoa powder, on the other hand, is processed at much higher temperatures. The beans are fermented and are roasted (cacao powder only involves fermentation. Fermentation is essential to flavor development and the final acidity of cacao beans.). Cocoa is naturally acidic in taste. The finely ground and sifted product is sold as “natural cocoa”. Compared to cacao power, a tradeoff is that it may lack in the nutrients due to the additional heating.

Nutritional comparison Cocoa Powder vs Cacao Powder

1 tablespoon (5g) of cocoa powder contains:

• 3 grams carbohydrates
• 0 grams of sugar
• 2 grams of dietary fiber
• <1 gram of protein
• 5 grams of total fat
• 1 mg of iron
• 0 mg of phosphorus
• 4 mg of calcium
• 0 mg of magnesium
• 75 mg of potassium
• 8 mg of caffeine

(Reference: Hershey’s Cocoa)

1 tablespoon (6g) of cacao powder contains:

• 2 grams of carbohydrates
• 0 grams of sugar
• 2 grams of dietary fiber
• 6 grams of protein
• 6 g of total fat
• 8 mg of iron
• 14 mg of calcium
• 4 mg of magnesium
• 120 mg of potassium
• 6 mg of caffeine

(Reference: Navitas Organics Cacao powder)

Serves: 40 appetizers

Ingredients Needed to Make Jerk Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Tater Tots:

• 16 oz Hickory Smoked Bacon
• 40 frozen tater tots (deep fried or baked)
• ¾ cup Sweet n Smoky Jerk Wing sauce
• wooden picks

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place bacon in a single layer (you may have to use 2 baking sheets)
3. Bake bacon for 20 minutes or just until cooked through but not yet crisp.
4. Drain on a paper towel.
5. Add new parchment paper to baking sheet and coat both sides of bacon with Jerk Sauce. Return to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes.
6. Remove from oven and cool slightly.
7. Cut bacon in half and wrap each half around a tater tot, securing with a wooden pick.
8. Serve immediately.

You can find this recipe on our Yummly Page as well so you can add it into your recipe box.

Yum

Here are our Caribbean Trading Company Crushed Pepper Sauces and their Scoville ratings. Our line of sauces covers all your hot sauce needs. If you want something to mix in your guacamole try the Walk the Plank Jalapeno Passion, if you want something to put on a sandwich or pizza try our crew favorite, On the Plank Garlic Habanero, or if you are just looking for some great flavor and heat try the Fire Roasted Garlic Habanero Infused.

CTC Hot Pepper Sauces on the Scoville hottest pepper scale 

• • Cucumber Mango Orange Habanero (Mild) – 100,000
  • Curried Pineapple Orange Habanero (Mild) – 100,000
  • On The Plank Garlic Habanero (Mild) – 100,000
  • Walk the Plank Jalapeno Passion (Medium) – 100,000
  • Scotch Bonnet Mango Madness (Medium) – 325,000
  • Scotch Bonnet Papaya Punch (Medium) – 325,000
  • Smoked Chipotle Passion Fruit (Medium) – 325,000
  • Fire Roasted Garlic Habanero Infused (Hot) – 350,000
  • Red Savina Citrus Slammer (Extreme) – 580,000
  • Off the Plank Naga Jolokia Ghost (Extreme) – 855,000

The Scoville hottest pepper scale is a measurement of the spicy heat of chili peppers, reported in Scoville heat units (SHU). In 1912, American chemist Wilbur Scoville performed a study by adding sugar syrup to chili peppers extract to see how long until the heat was no longer detected. The rating shows how many times the pepper extract would need to be diluted before the heat level is undetected.

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There are many benefits in eating Crushed Pepper Sauces:

Help Digestion

The spiciness in our hot sauces stimulates stomach secretions and blood flow to the stomach. Everyone always says to avoid spicy foods when you have stomach ulcer, but it may actually help heal them by pumping more blood to the stomach area and thickening the mucous lining.

Help Battle Depression

By eating something hot your body naturally releases endorphins, your body’s “happy drug”. Capsaicin brings on endorphins and can improve your mood. Endorphins resemble opiates in how they work, by relieving pain and promoting a sense of well being.

Cure the Common Cold

Everyone knows when you have stuffed sinuses the quick cure is to eat something extra spicy to clear your passages. Caribbean Trading Company Crushed Pepper Sauces will do the trick in no time. During a research study, it was found that the main ingredients in hot sauces also can battle against bacteria, like Salmonella.

Weight Loss

If you are like many of us around the world, setting goals to lose weight, buying some hot sauce could help. Spicy sauces may boost your metabolic rate, can help you eat less and feel satisfied. Our crushed pepper sauces also are low in calories, unlike many other condiments.

Next time you are bringing out condiments for your favorite burgers or putting together your picnic basket, make sure you throw in one of your favorite Caribbean Trading Company Crushed Pepper Sauces and TURN UP THE HEAT!

This article was written by Captain Tim and the Crew of Caribbean Trading Company.

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Here is a rundown of the more popular brands of hot sauces and pique:

Traditional Piques

A traditional pique is an oil and vinegar based sauce that is infused with whole peppers, garlic, onions and  maybe culantro or other spices.  Traditionally found in every restaurant, pincho stand, and corner market.  An artisan traditional Puerto Rican pique that is really excellent.  Made with habanero peppers, it is very hot and is excellent accompaniment for any dish.  There are 8 flavors to choose from:

Shop Traditional Piques

Modern Hot Sauces

A modern hot sauce is epitomized by the use of a wide variety of peppers, including Caribbean sweet peppers, habanero, and scotch bonnets.  Tropical fruits and flavors are incorporated as well.

Crushed Pepper Sauces

Featuring tropical flavors in a heartier hot sauce, these crushed pepper sauces created by Caribbean Trading Company are meant to be thick and flavorful, enhancing any dish with the flavors of the tropics.  There is a full line of ten hot sauces with varying degrees of heat, but the most popular ones are:

• Smoked Chipotle Passion Fruit Crushed Pepper Sauce
• Scotch Bonnet/Papaya Punch Crushed Pepper Sauce
• Fire Roasted Habañero Garlic Infused Crushed Pepper Sauce

Shop Modern Crushed Pepper Puerto Rican Hot Sauces

Heat up any dish is with some Puerto Rican hot sauce on the side. 

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History of Tortilla Chips

For many decades, tortilla chips have been one of the favorite snacks.  Tortilla chips come from Mexico, where they were originally made from tortillas, though their use was not widespread at first. This delicious snack originally made its debut in U.S. restaurants and kitchens in the southwest region during the early 1900s. However, tortilla chips first become popular in the U.S. because of a creative restaurant owner living in L.A. In the late 1940s, Rebecca Webb Carranza decided to use the misshapen tortillas from her tortilla factory to create crunchy chips. After being fried, the chips were bagged and sold for ten cents in her Mexican delicatessen in L.A. The snack became so popular that they were mass-produced and sold all over the state within a few years. By the time the 70s rolled around, tortilla chips had become popular all over the country. Tortilla chips eventually surpassed corn chips, the previous favorite snack chip, for the highest sales in the United States. Today, these chips are often paired with salsa and have become a staple for dipping dishes. Two other popular dipping options, guacamole and chili con queso, have retained the Mexican flavors that were first associated with tortilla chips. However, it has become more and more popular to pair tortilla chips with other dips like spinach-artichoke dip and hummus.

Tortilla chips maintained their beloved status, and in 1994 Carranza was the recipient of a Golden Tortilla award for her innovation in the Mexican food industry. In 2003, the state of Texas made the tortilla chip the official state snack!  The widespread use of tortilla chips has also made it possible for different brands of the snack to expand their product line. Tortilla chips are now available in many different delicious varieties of flavored tortilla chips, whether its yellow corn, multi-grain, tomato cilantro or barbecue. In addition to being a delicious snack all on their own, these flavored varieties can also be used to compliment particular dips or foods. Colored chips in red, blue and black varieties are also popular with tortilla chip fans. These tortilla chips add a dash of color to your dishes for family and friends, though the only difference is in the color of corn used to make them, not in the taste.

Making our Artisan Island Fever Salsa

My favorite tortilla chips are the plain variety, lightly salted and super crispy.  They have to be not too thick and not too thin, so they don’t break when you are loading up a huge dollop of my favorite; Island Fever Salsa. I most definitely have salsa running through my veins and it unquestionably runs in the family.  My sister has her own line of Cindy’s Country Fresh Salsa that is sold throughout Wisconsin.  This is totally fresh and absolutely delicious.  My other siblings also have their own favorite varieties and each of them are worthy of being award winners in their own right. Making the salsa is a true labor of love for me.

It starts off by selecting fresh mangos, papaya and pineapples.  The trick is trying to find them all at the same degree of ripeness and it usually doesn’t happen that way.  I will start out cutting and preparing the ripest fruit, and storing it in stainless steel pots in the refrigerator while I wait a day or two for the rest of the fruit to ripen. Then on the magical day where the salsa gods are smiling down upon me, I then purchase and we prepare the scallions, jalapeño and habañero peppers, cilantro and all of the other goodies.  I use canned diced organic tomatoes as I’ve found it nearly impossible to get consistently good quality tomatoes in Puerto Rico.

Then the fun begins.  I mix up small artisan batches of (50) 9 ounce jars per batch.  I combine all of the ingredients and never forget to add the special ingredient that my mother insisted went into anything that she cooked.  “You need to add lots of love”, she would always tell us. And so it goes.  I also have my jars and caps in boiling water to begin the hot fill canning process that I also learned from my mother.

And this is where our friend, the tortilla chip joins the party.  I take a small scoop of the salsa and place it in a bowl.  Then I open a fresh bag of my favorite tortilla chips and scoop up some of the island fresh goodness so I can tweak the pot with a pinch of this and a pinch of that until the salsa gods make my tongue dance to the beat of the perfect Island Fever Salsa!

Celebrate the holiday with some of my Island Fever Salsa *made with love*:

Island Fever Salsa

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