Dominican grub

[Kip]

I am still absolutely amazed by the sheer number of edible species that grow throughout the wilds of this country. Avocado, guava, mango, limes, sour orange, chinola, coffee....and many more. almost every time i take a walk in the countryside or mountains, i see something new. Even the non-native species love the environ and spread throughout on their own.

...sent by smoke signal from Cigar Country

[Stewmuse]

I am still absolutely amazed by the sheer number of edible species that grow throughout the wilds of this country. Avocado, guava, mango, limes, sour orange, chinola, coffee....and many more. almost every time i take a walk in the countryside or mountains, i see something new. Even the non-native species love the environ and spread throughout on their own.

...sent by smoke signal from Cigar Country

So, what are you doing with said natural bounty? And don't just say "eating it."

[Kip]

Not just a whole lot, actually. I am thoroughly enjoying the juices, though. There is an incredible bounty of fresh juice available just about anywhere in the city. Just an fyi, though - stick with store-bought juice unless you've been here a while to get the right "bugs" in yer belly; the fresh squeezed juice from stands along the streets may or may not be safe for an American gut fresh off the plane.

Chinola (passion fruit) is easily my favorite thus far. They juice it (with or without seeds, depending on the source), and add a metric buttload of sugar to make a delicious concoction.


On a sidenote, I've never been a big cheese fan until recently. I've discovered the Dominican palate is appreciative, and there are a number of good local ones around. Right now, I'm enamored with a Gouda coming out of Sosua on the north coast. Good stuff.

[kurtdesign1]

I love this thread.

[Kip]

More coffee making pics. That's my friend William doing the grinding:

[Stewmuse]

Be careful. I'm pretty sure Colin Ganley started this same way. You may have yet another career change in the future.

[kurtdesign1]

Be careful. I'm pretty sure Colin Ganley started this same way. You may have yet another career change in the future.

Not far off...

[Stewmuse]

More coffee making pics. That's my friend William doing the grinding:

This would be a great thing to try!

[Stewmuse]

Rice is very much a staple in the DR, as are beans of various shades, as well as plantains. This is my version a dish that was prepared by Kip's wife, Kristy. Rice with black beans that have tomato and jalapeno added, plus chorizo. The plantains are twice-fried, with garlic and chili powder added between fryings. Now, I just need some El Presidente beer and I'll be set!

[Stewmuse]

A plate from our day at the beach, for comparison...