I have always loved tea and tea time. On week days when I am busy with work and my daily activities, tea time is just a pot of good strong English tea and maybe a slice of cake or a small pastry if I have fresh baked goods on hand. I also really enjoy the…
Author: sharleebrun
Carambola Jam
In my yard in Guyana stands a beautiful,mature and very prolific carambola tree. In my memory it was the perfect tree. It was not too tall that the fruit were inaccessible, nor too flimsy that it could not bear the burden of the fruit it bore; it was just right. Its mature trunk was thick…
The Best Rice and Beans
In this part of the world, Rice is a staple and eaten at most meals. Growing up in Guyana, white rice was a faithful part of practically every meal; with the exception of days that cookup rice was on the menu. Rice is both comforting and filling. Eating these familiar grains, whether they be brown,…
The Importance of Family in Society Today
When I think of family, I associate the word with great love, happiness and appreciation. For me it is a word which is sacred and all important. It means the source and foundation on which love and security is built. It’s my support system through good and bad, happy or sad. Family is there at…
Beignets de Figues or Banana Fritters
These banana fritters are made in Haïti during the carnival season. They are not to be confused with the beignets of New Orleans, which are the raised fried pastry doused in tons of powdered sugar. This Haitian fried sweet snack is made when there are lots of delicious organic bananas available, as they are the…
Carnival in Haïti
In Haïti, once the Christmas and New Year festivities are over, it immediately signals that the pre-Carnival season is imminent. You have to understand that for Haitians, Carnival is probably the biggest celebration of the year. For many here, Carnival is greatly anticipated and it is truly a time where people of all walks of…
Cheese Nibbles
Who can resist a little nibble of cheesy goodness? These comforting snacks are the absolute perfect bite for just about anytime of the day or night. The ingredients are simple and not too many; yet the result is rich and delicious. It is an oldie but goodie and one which I grew up eating as…
Guyanese Girl Haitian Soul’s First Dinner Experience
I started writing my thoughts down and sharing them with you all last April. I can honestly say that I did not really know whether anyone would enjoy reading my stories, but I knew that I was writing from my heart. I have been astounded by the feedback from my readers. Over the course of…
The Story Behind Guyanese Girl Haitian Soul [Part 2]: The Joy of Cooking
From as far back as I can remember, I have always been intrigued by flavors and food. I am utterly fascinated by the alchemy which occurs in the kitchen, when different spices are blended together producing an amalgamation of wonderful tastes. Sheer magic occurs in the cooking process which imparts the most delicious flavors into…
Guyanese Mithai or Kurma
I have a weakness for this delicious sweet treat. In Guyana, it is very common to find Mithai everywhere. Our Indian heritage has brought this gem to us collectively and we just consider it a “Guyanese” thing. Who can resist the thin, crunchy, sweet pieces of fried dough? The grated coconut and mild spices all…