Book Review: Fine Haitian Cuisine: A Broad Collection of Haitian Recipes, by Mona Cassion Ménager

I’ve been pining away for this book for quite some time, but given its hefty price tag of nearly fifty bucks and the fact that I own three other Haitian cookbooks, I felt I couldn’t justify it. Thankfully, a dear friend of mine bought it for me as a gift and I thus eluded purchase guilt. ;)

The book begins with a brief history of Haiti and an explanation about the culinary influences (Arawak, African, French and Spanish) that came... more

Looking for something fun and interesting to do with your family this summer? If you have adopted children or are considering adoption, an adoption “culture camp” or “heritage camp” may be just the thing! Here’s a list of some 2007 camp dates and locations. Be aware that many are accepting registrations now, so if you find one that’s of interest, don’t delay!

AFRICA

African/Caribbean Heritage Camp June 28-July 1 Snow Mountain Ranch, Fraser, CO

CAMBODIA

Cambodia Heritage Camp July 19-July... more

Haitian Chicken (This is my own concoction based on several Haitian chicken recipes, and if I do say so myself, this one is divine.)

2 pounds cubed chicken 1/2 green bell pepper 2 + 2 cloves garlic 3 whole cloves 1/2 medium onion 1 bunch parsley 1 small can tomato paste 1 cup chicken broth juice of 4 limes 1/2 cup orange juice 1 Tbsp hot pepper (Tabasco) sauce 2-3 sprigs of thyme salt and pepper

Finely chop green pepper. Saute in oil... more

The beginning of a new year can be a busy time for anyone, but we find ourselves particularly busy due to the traffic jam of first-of-the-year holidays we celebrate in our family. Mercifully, Chinese New Year begins in February this year, so we find ourselves celebrating “only” Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Haitian Independence Day in one week’s time. Most Christian Ethiopians observe an orthodox Christmas, so we’ll have that to throw into the mix when our new child arrives next year. For now, though, we’ll enjoy the... more