Author Archives: nikki

Fragrance and Flavor: Edible Flowers

Flowers are a common sight to see on cakes of different flavors; one might even say this sweet treat won’t be complete without a flower decor or two. While you can opt for the usual sugar, gum paste or marzipan flowers, why not mix it up and use real, fresh ones for your cakes? In fact, why limit it to cake when you can use it on your favorite dishes used for your wedding catering in Manila? Check out these blooms which aren’t just going to add beauty, but also taste – literally.

Hibiscus

Locally known as Gumamela, the hibiscus has long been a favorite among children. Often times, it is the flower teachers request their students to bring for their Botany class, as it’s the most common complete flower in the country. But did you know that the Hyacinth is actually edible? In fact, in other countries its calyx is enjoyed as a snack. If you’d like to use this gorgeous blossom for your wedding, feel free to mix in the petals into your fruit salads or to decorate your cake, just remember to remove the pollen first. You can even serve it as a drink for hyacinth tea has several health benefits such as it can lower blood pressure, protect your liver and lower your cholesterol levels.

Carnation

Considered to be among the stunning flowers on earth, it is said carnations grew from the spot where the Virgin Mary’s tears fell, thus symbolizing a mother’s unconditional love for her son. MacBeth himself wrote praise for this multilayered flower, immortalizing it in “A Winter’s Tale”, namely the third scene of the fourth act. In it, he says: “Of trembling winter, the fairest flowers o’ the season are our carnations and streak’d gillyvors.”

If you think it’s so pretty you can just eat it, go ahead. It has, in fact, been used in different dishes for years. When used as a tea, carnation can lessen stress, strengthen metabolism and relieve nausea. It can be used to add a little zing to not just desserts such as ice creams and fruit salads, but to stir fried dishes and seafood platters as well. Also, it’s long been used for cordials and cake decor. Remember to remove the bitter white heel at the base of the petal before adding it into your dishes.

Rose

Of course, we cannot forget the eternal favorite, roses. Aside from being used for decorations, for the bride’s bouquet and the groom’s boutonniere, roses are also well known as a great edible flower. Eating rose flowers can help make you feel great about yourself. Also, rose petals have several health benefits; these lovely buds can help you lose weight, clarify your skin, and fight off illness thanks to its high vitamin C content. Its fragrance alone can help clear your mind relax, so go ahead and use roses not just for aesthetic reasons, but for the body as well.

When using flowers for cooking, do make sure what you are using is organic as this ensures the quality of the flowers. In addition; don’t use the flowers from your neighborhood flower shop as there is a high chance these blossoms have already been treated; search for a reputable source and get the petals directly from them.

12 Healthy Foods that Boost Productivity

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What foods can help to boost productivity?

Blueberries
Bananas
Eggs
Fatty fish
Eggplant
Yogurt
Dark chocolate
Green tea
Nuts
Avocados
Water
Brown rice

Meetings can be dull and repetitive and presenters are sure to agree with that nothing is more horrible than a passive audience. Sure, there are a lot of factors to consider in commanding and keeping the attention of your audience, such as subject interest and delivery, but this is where strategic corporate catering comes into play.

It is fun and easy (and highly encouraged) to go for our catering services because we can suggest some of the best food choices. But it’s also good to know which types of ingredients are best for the employees. Certain kinds of food have been proven to increase productivity and alertness in the human mind and having these in any meeting is sure to revitalize your employees and strengthen their immune system!

In this blog post, we will introduce and briefly discuss the types of food that boost productivity and concentration.

Blueberries

Research shows that blueberries boost “concentration and memory” for up to five hours “because the antioxidants in blueberries stimulate the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain – and keep the mind fresh”. Blueberries are affordable and delicious and best of all, they’re healthy.

Bananas

Bananas are rich in vitamins and minerals and specifically, glucose. According to researcher Leigh Gibson of Roehampton University in England, “The brain works best with about 25 grams of glucose circulating in the blood stream — about the amount found in a banana.” Bananas offer a quick energy boost and they’re scrumptious to boot.

Eggs

A staple of breakfast, eggs offer a delicious meal that can be prepared in any number of ways from a quick and easy sunny side-up to the elegant and delicious omelets to the healthier on-the-go boiled. According to Vivian Giang and Aimee Groth of Business Insider, “Eggs contain fat-like B vitamin called choline that enhances memory and reaction time.”

Fatty Fish

Most fatty fish are rich in omega-3s, iron, B-Vitamins and protein which support focus, memory, reasoning and recall. (Byrd) Salmon, Mackarel, Herring, Sardines and Tuna are just a few fatty fish that contain these benefits.

Eggplant

Another egg-type entry in the list, “Eggplant skin contains a nutrient called nasunin which keeps our brain sharp by enhancing communication between our brain cells and messenger molecules. “

Yogurt

Delicious and a component of many delicious meals and sauces, “calcium rich foods such as yogurt, milk and cheese improve nerve function. Yogurt contains an amino acid called tyrosine which is responsible for producing the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline.” To summarize all that, yoghurt improves memory and alertness. Delicious and versatile, yogurt is healthy and easy to find and is a perfect addition to any corporate event.

Dark Chocolate

Not only does dark chocolate boost the production of “feel-good” chems called endorphins, they also reproduce the feeling of “euphoria” people get from exercising. According to an editorial by CNN, “preliminary research at West Virginia’s Wheeling Jesuit University suggests chocolate may boost your memory, attention span, reaction time, and problem-solving skills by increasing blood-flow to the brain.”

Green Tea

This drink is a natural energy enhancer. Since it isn’t made from energy-fabricating ingredients, it also doesn’t have any of the side effects of usual energy boosters. This makes it popular amongst health buffs who work long hours while still squeezing in a workout at the end of the day. Their green tea of choice is matcha which has been gaining mainstream popularity over recent years – most especially in New York City. Unlike other green teas, matcha actually uses a whole green tea leaf that is ground into fine powder. By being able to ingest the whole leaf, a whole family of antioxidants, fiber, and polyphenols will be introduced to the human body.

Nuts

Nuts are healthy for a number of reasons. For one, it’s a great source of protein and natural fat, which are healthy for the human body. Additionally, it’s a rich food that is high in antioxidants, vitamin E, and amino acids. These are the nutrients that the body needs in order increase memory and brain power.

For the best nuts to consume, grab some walnuts and almonds. These have the best ingredients for boosting brain health and productivity.

Avocados

In order for one to be productive, the flow blood through the brain and around the heart must be smooth and consistent. To ensure that you have this consistent flow in your body, eat some Avocados. This fruit is a natural stimulant that enhances the flow of blood and provides healthy fats. Not only will it get the brain cells working at their best, but it’s also very tasty. Who said that healthy foods need to taste bad?

Water

While it may not be a food, it must be added to this list because of how essential it is for productivity. Basically, the whole body will function well if it has enough water in it. It uses it to do its daily functions, which means that it depletes throughout the day. When the water levels in your body get too low, then your brain and the rest of your body won’t perform at its best.

To make sure that you always have enough water in your body, have at least 8 glasses of water a day. This will keep your brain powered up, focused, and thinking quickly and clearly.

Brown Rice

The healthiest ingredient in brown rice is magnesium. With an ample amount of this in your body, not only will you be more productive, but you will also be more relaxed. This is because it has been shown to be able to relieve stress. Also, it is loaded with the vitamins that you need for your body to work at its best. Because of this, the cognitive functions will also be boosted which guarantees boosted productivity.

Key Takeaway

We can all agree that food in any setting is good but having healthy and delicious food prepared and served by passionate people is as close as you can get to perfect.

Works Cited

Byrd, M. (n.d.). Retrieved February 2016, 22, from Omega 3 Fish Oil Benefits: http://www.omega-3.us/omega-3/omega-3-benefits

Derbyshire, D. (2009, September 14). Retrieved February 22, 2016, from DailyMailUk: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1212579/A-bowl-blueberries-day-keeps-brain-active-afternoon.html

Giang, V., & Groth, A. (2013, May 30). Retrieved February 22, 2016, from BusinessInsider: http://www.businessinsider.com/foods-you-should-eat-to-increase-productivity-2013-5?op=1

Ingall, M. (2006, December 22). Health. Retrieved February 22, 2016, from CNN: http://edition.cnn.com/2006/HEALTH/12/20/health.chocolate/

Left of Zen. (2008, January 4). Left of Zen. Retrieved February 22, 2016, from http://leftofzen.com/brain-food/2008/01/04/

LiveScience. (2009, January 7). Retrieved February 22, 2016, from LiveScience: http://www.livescience.com/3186-brain-food-eat-smart.html

The Best Wedding Beverages to Serve in 2016

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Dawn Kelly Photography

Liquor is often considered a staple for any milestone celebration, and most of the time wedding signature drinks are among the fanciest kinds. So if you’re into the wedding catering scene, it’s doubly important for you to serve only the most elegant and luscious drinks.

Wedding drinks often featured include vibrantly-hued cocktails, in addition to glasses of bourbon or Scotch bar. If you’re thinking about what kinds of liquor to serve at your wedding, here are a few suggestions:

Classic Champagne

Champagne is practically a symbol of celebration, and the top wedding drink trend and will always be the go-to liquor of wedding participants. With the dramatic sobering of Champagne bottles, no wonder people love to dramatically pour it in a neatly stocked tower of stemmed glasses. Over 40% percent of wedding couples highly prioritize top quality Champagne at their weddings and that’s a fact according to wedding magazines and online portals. Aside from the serving different types of glamorous Champagne bottles, offer cocktails mixed with Champagne at your reception.

Sangria

This colourful and fruity drink will brighten any event. Whether you want the pale pink kind or the classy white sangria, this is another one of those beverages that should not miss out on your wedding. Don’t forget to ask the bartender to use fresh fruit slices as garnish to make it prettier AND yummier.

A Sip of Everything

Drink stations should be available at your reception. Instead of focusing on one type of drink, usually it is best to offer small servings of a lot of things; from vodka, bourbon, microbrew beer flights to tequila. Your guests would enjoy drinking the night way with the many selections your bar would offer. These small sip drinks may be paired with foods as well, and your wedding venue’s chef or caterers can assist in creating the perfect pairing for each beverage concoction. Just remind them not to mix drink too many different types of drinks consecutively or they may end up with a tummyache.

Multiple Signature Drinks

Don’t stick to one kind of liquor and experiment with the different mixes you can come up with. It is a big trend these days to customize your own flavoured cocktail. You can even seek help from the handy app on your phone that is called “mixology”. Add a little presentation to your drink station by putting up a board sign then write down the signature drinks available which will definitely entice your guests. While this is fun though, don’t get too carried away. Sometimes it’s best to leave the bartender to do their profession.

Flavoured Sodas

Surely not all of your guests are legal enough to drink liquor – you have guests that are underaged, or adults who simply don’t drink the stuff. Have your caterer include flavoured sodas on the menue so they won’t feel left out.

Food and drinks are two of the most important elements to a wedding reception. Hiring a catering service will definitely lift the pressure of having to figure out which trend to follow when it comes to catering.

The Hottest Peppers in the World

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What are the hottest peppers in the world?

Tabasco Pepper- 30,000-50,000 SHU
Pequin Pepper- 100,000-150,000 SHU
Habanero Chili- 100,00-350,000 SHU
Red Savina Habanero- 350,000-580,000 SHU
Carolina Reaper- 1.57 Million SHU
Trinidad Moruga Scorpion- 1.2 Million SHU
7 Pot Douglah- 1.85 Million SHU

No matter what it may be and where it is served – either it be a wedding or a corporate catering – food is food. Known for its variety of choices and variations, every bite a person takes is always a new and pleasurable experience.

Speaking of variations, there’s always a certain way of how you want your food to be served. Whether it be heated at a mild temperature, or for some, even added with a good amount of spice to really kick it up a notch.

However, spicy food may not exactly be a staple choice for corporate catering, although it is usually available upon request. While there are those who are sensitive to the slight burning sensation it causes when it’s consumed, there are actually plenty of people who enjoy eating spicy dishes. There’s just something about the intensity that really heightens the flavor and makes it more enticing than ever before.

Still, it’s important to know when it’s best to serve such dishes, as it depends on who’s going to eat and how spicy they want it to be. After all, you wouldn’t want anyone gasping for air and reaching for a glass of water in extreme panic.

Many spicy dishes wouldn’t be what they are without the addition of its star ingredient: peppers. These popular seasonings are what adds that extra kick we love. Some peppers are only mildly spicy while others are almost painful to ingest – so make sure you use the proper one when cooking! (Check their Scoville Scale Rankings to verify their “hotness”.)

In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the hottest peppers in existence – so serve these to only those who really, really, like spicy food.

Tabasco pepper

30.000-50.000 SHU

Image from GotSauce.co.uk

Called the Capsicum frutescens, it originates from Mexico and it’s mostly used for Tabasco Sauce (or peppered vinegar). It’s harvested from small bushes with heights that can reach up to a low 1.5m which thrive in heat – they best grow in temperatures that range from 25-30 degrees Celsius, and they’re best taken from their bushes when they’re a bright, ripe, red. They also need a lot of water to grow, but are easy to cultivate. Moreover, they are simply good for dishes which are meant to be pretty spicy, though not too much.

So, the next time you see a bottle of hot sauce made from this eponymous pepper, don’t be afraid to add a few drops to your dish. You’d be surprised at how bearable the heat can be and how tame it is compared to the other papers on this list.

Pequin pepper

100.000-150.000 SHU

Image from FoodMayhem.com

Under the species Capsicum annuum, it is common in North America and in the northern parts of South America. Its bush grows up to 0.3 to 0.6 meters tall and the fruit itself is no bigger than the palm of one’s hand. It is often used as an ingredient in main dishes, as well as in salsas, sauces, and vinegar.

The Cholula brand hot sauce lists Pequin peppers as one of its main ingredients alongside Arbol peppers.

Habanero chili

100.000-350.000 SHU

Image from EasyPonix.com/

Mexico popularized this chili and is, by default, also its biggest producers (especially in the Yucatan Peninsula). Like the aforementioned Pequin pepper, it’s also often used for sauces and salsas, though those made with these are significantly hotter. Its name means “something or someone from La Habana” (or Havana – the b and v are interchangeable in the Spanish Language.)

Red Savina Habanero

350.000-580.000 SHU

Image from HabaneroMadness.com

This one is uncommon, though its spiciness did not go unnoticed at all. Developed by Frank Garcia of GNS Spices (from Walnut, California), it was so hot that it was crowned the hottest chili in the world by the Guinness World Records in 1994.

However, it only held the title for a modest 12 years before it was displaced by the Naga Jolokia pepper.

Carolina Reaper

1.57 million SHU

Image from CrazyHotSeeds.com

With a Scoville rating in the millions, it is no wonder that the Carolina Reaper is currently the crown king of all the others. It was created by Ed “Smokin’” Currie – the man who runs the PuckerButt Pepper Company located in South Carolina, USA – through breeding a ghost pepper and a red Habanero.

It is an exceptionally hot chili and should only be considered under special circumstances as the consumption of overly-hot foods may cause injury. Regardless, an extraordinary case happened on September 2014, when a man named Jason McNabb was able to eat 3 of it in 10 seconds!

Trinidad Moruga Scorpion

1.2 Million SHU

Now this is where the peppers really kick it up a notch! With at least 6 digits to their SHU, the Trinidad Moruga Scorpion is one pepper that should not be taken lightly.

Think about it: In recent times, there has been a rise in popularity in various challenges, especially when it comes to eating some of the hottest peppers in existence. So, imagine eating this spice for sport. You’re going to need a lot of milk to quench the heat that is sure to invade your body upon ingestion.

But, if you do survive the heat, imagine the bragging rights you’ll gain from accomplishing this feat. Just remember to always keep caution when doing this.

7 Pot Doughlah

1.85 Million SHU

For many people, the number ‘7’ is considered a lucky one. Now imagine the shock upon hearing about how much heat this little pepper pack.

Originally, the heat that this spice may catch you off guard. Regardless, it will give you all the thrill you need, and as long as you’re really careful, this pepper may just spice up your day in all the right ways.

Key Takeaway

Chilis are a wonderful addition to any dish, though make sure not to overdo it. After all, everything is best in moderation.

A Quick Guide to Stemmed Glasses

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What are the types of stemmed glasses?

According to materials used: (1) crystal, and; (2) glass.
According to shape and purpose: (1) wine glass which is subcategorized into red wine and white wine glasses; (2) Martini glasses; (3) flute glasses; (4) dessert wine glasses, and; (5) grappa glasses.

If you’re like most people, you probably assume that the glasses we drink from only differ in shape, size, and the amount of liquid it can contain. But the truth is, there are a number of varying types of glasses because they each serve different purposes. In fact, when used properly, the attributes of a glass can actually help keep the contents “fresh” and optimal.

Hence, the next time you find yourself having to serve drinks to a group of people – especially if you’re in the corporate, casual, or a wedding catering scene – don’t forget the following facts to ensure that you pick the right vessel for your next drink.

Types of Glasses According to Materials Used

Before we step into the shapes of glasses for the different types of drinks, we must first discuss the material of the glasses. Mainly, there are two kinds: crystal and glass.

Basically, the difference is in the lead content. There is lead in crystal which makes it easier to cut and engrave than glass. This also increases the weight and causes light to diffract from the material. The advantage of using this over glass material is that it controls the temperature of the drink more, and the smells and flavors of wine are accentuated better. Because of this, these glasses are thought to be able to provide a better wine-tasting experience. However, they are expensive and fragile, which turns a lot of people away from buying them.

Also, this lead content in crystal sometimes leaches out and it caused health concerns. As such, companies nowadays produce crystal glassware that is unleaded.

To replace the lead, they used barium carbonate, zinc, and titanium oxides instead. These make the glasses similar to the lead crystal glasses and its properties, but, at a lighter weight.

Types of Glasses According to Shape and Purpose

Stemmed glasses can be classified according to their shapes and purpose, especially on what particular drink they are best used. Some of these are:

Wine glasses

Image from DecorDesignStyle.tk

The standard bulbous, stemmed glasses we often see wines are served in is shaped that way for many reasons. Note its thin stem which allows you to hold the glass without your hand having to make contact with the bulb’s base – this is important as it keeps your body heat away from the wine and helps keep it cool for a longer amount of time.

Another factor to consider when serving wine is its aroma – wine glasses are shaped to retain it for as long as possible, allowing you to enjoy your drink for longer without fear of it going flat too soon.

Red Wine Glasses: For red wine, larger wine glasses are used. The bowls of these glasses are fuller, rounder and with a larger opening. This is so you can stick your nose in the glass as you drink the wine and enjoy its aroma, as well. The taste and smells of red wine is also best enjoyed when there is more surface area to it that comes in contact with the air.

There are different types of red wine glasses. The Bordeaux glass is the tall version with a smaller bowl which was designed for heavy wines such as Cabernets and Merlots. This is so that the wine can read the back of the mouth quickly for maximum taste. Burgundy glasses, on the other hand, are made for lighter wines such as Pinot Noir. The glass is shorter with a larger bowl which directs the wine to go towards the tip of the tongue so that a drinker will be able to taste the delicate flavors.

White Wine Glasses: These have bowls that are more U in shape and more upright than red wine glasses. This allows aroma to be released properly while keeping the wine at cooler temperatures.

The variation of the glass depends on the age of the white wine. For younger ones, the opening is usually slightly larger to direct the wine toward the front of the tongue which is best to enjoy the sweet taste. For older ones, the opening is straighter and taller to direct towards the back, which is best for the bold flavors that it contains.

Martini Glasses

Image from HomeWetBar.com

The purpose of the stem of a martini glass is the same as the wine glass – it avoids directing heat to the drink. Their difference, however, lies in the model of the part where the drink is actually contained – martini glasses are cone shaped, not round and bulbous. This is because the cone helps keep the ingredients from separating. It also assists multi-layered drinks, which have ingredients with specific gravities or relative density thereby retaining its layers. Another major difference is the opening, which is designed to somewhat freely allow the liquid’s aroma to diffuse.

Flute Glasses

Image from WineEnthusiast.com

As opposed to the previous two which possesses wide statures, flute glasses are on the opposite side of the spectrum. They’re also stemmed, but they are tall and thin. It was designed this way so that the narrowness can help protect the drink’s carbonation.

To aid this effort, there is often a bead etched into the bottom of the glass to give the bubbles a central point for nucleation. These are best used when serving champagne, champagne cocktails, or even sparkling wine.

Dessert wine glasses

Image from WineEnthusiast.com

They’re named after their very purpose – to hold dessert wine. This drink is often served in small portions, so it makes sense that the glass is equally petite as well. They’re stemmed and have small openings at the top. Dessert wine caters more to the taste than smell, hence the opening of the glass does not really need to accommodate the nose.

Grappa Glasses

This glass is meant to hold grappa in small amounts to help manage someone’s intake as too much will definitely result to intoxication.

Also, it is shaped in a unique way to push the aroma upwards, toward the drinker while keeping it at a good drinking temperature with its bulb-like spheres.

Key Takeaway

It may not seem like such a big deal, but using the proper glass for a certain drink shows professionalism and knowledge. Next time you find yourself having to decide which glass to use, refer to the quick guide above for a quick dose of advice.

Oh Pricey! 7 of the Most Expensive Foods In The World

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What are the most expensive foods in the world?

Truffles
Saffron
Kopi Luwak
Vanilla
Balsamic Vinegar
Swiftnest
Kobe Beef

Catering in Manila – the Philippine capital – can mount up to be a pretty monumental job. With it being the universal melting pot of the country, the widely varied population is bound to have extremely diverse tastes when it comes to cuisine. While some are delighted with standard Filipino fare, there are also those who seek something extra special in the food.

Sometimes the extra special is no more than the right pairing of wine and cheese. Other times, it’s rare (and expensive) ingredients. Here are seven of the most expensive ingredients in the world.

Truffles

Image from Australian Truffle Growers Association

As a knowledgeable food connoisseur would tell you, no list of expensive ingredients would ever be complete without truffles, a rare, edible underground fungus. Unsurprisingly, it’s more notorious for its price rather than its taste – white truffles can reach astronomical prices of as much as $3,600 a pound!

Taste-wise, truffles are known for their uniquely musky, delectable, and sweet flavor. Despite possessing a slightly pungent smell, they’re often used as garnish for creamy pastas or other dishes that have a lot of cheese, eggs, and butter. Aside from that though, their inherent value lies in its rarity. Truffles are found in very select places around the world, most of which are in Europe (such as the Piedmont district of Italy); they’re also very difficult to acquire. Truffle hunters have to use trained pigs or dogs in order to forage for the truffles, and as each year passes there are less to harvest and the quality steadily decreases. In addition, due to Truffles’ value, a black market has emerged and unfortunately, it dominates a huge percentage of truffle sales. Despite all these setbacks, however, quality truffles are still available for consumption worldwide.

Saffron

Image from The New York Times

Similar to truffles, Saffron’s inherent value also lies in how difficult it is to obtain. The plants itself aren’t so rare, but the yields are rather low compared to other, more “common” spices such as Basil or Rosemary. This is because Saffron is the stigma (the part of the flower that receives the pollen and allows it to germinate) of the Crocus Sativus flower. Each plant bears only about four flowers, and every flower only has 3 stigmas on it. Each stigma is taken, dried, then sold as the spice we all know and love. Connoisseurs describe its taste as “reminiscent of metallic honey with grassy or hay-like notes, while its taste has also been noted as hay-like and sweet.” It’s often used in Persian, Indian, European, Arab, and Turkish cuisines despite its high price at about $500 an ounce.

Kopi Luwak

Image from Shawn Hesketh

While coffee made from animal excrement doesn’t sound all too enticing – or valuable, for that matter – you’d be surprised at the prices a bit of Kopi Luwak goes for! It’s actually one of the most expensive coffees in the world, a single kilogram of it going for as much as $3000. Mainly produced in Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, the “coffee” is harvested from the feces of the Asian Palm Civets as the small animal’s digestive system helps in the process of making the coffee “better”. This is debatable, however, as the Specialty Coffee Association of America stated that the “general consensus within the industry … it just tastes bad”. It’s bought more for the novelty than its taste, though that detail is largely up to the consumer.

Vanilla

Vanilla it the second most demanded spice in the world yet the vanilla flower only blooms for a couple of hours in a single year. This means that there is very little time for pollination. Vanilla flowers also must be planted manually and only in certain areas.

The spice itself is gathered from the pods of the flowers. Once this is gathered, it must first be fermented and aged for two years in order for the signature taste and aroma of the spice to be released. This tedious process of gathering the spice leads to its big price tag: $3500-4000/lbs

Balsamic Vinegar

Although “balsamic vinegar” has been found more commonly nowadays, the authentic version is not so easily attainable. The process of creating this syrup first involves white Trebbiano grapes being boiled down to be musty. Then, it is placed in a barrel which allows water to escape over a long period of time; 12-25 years to be exact. You may think that this is a simple process and the long wait is what brings the price up. While this is true, it is also due to the fact that a large number of grapes is needed to reach an amount that can be sold commercially. This is because only small amounts of vinegar is gathered from a group of grapes due to the evaporation of the water and the concentration of the musty grapes. For a mere 100ml bottle of true balsamic vinegar, it will cost someone $150.

Swiftnest

This ingredient was named so because the ingredient itself is a bird’s nest. It was originally found in caves in Southeast Asia where male swallows use their saliva to create nests. It takes those birds around 2 months in order to do so. The gathering of the nest is also a tedious process. People must gather the nests from the hard to reach caves or custom houses must be created for swallows to build their nests there. When the swiftnests are gathered, they can be dissolved in broth to give it a gelatinous texture. A pound of swiftnest costs around $990.

Kobe Beef

Also known as ‘Wagyu’ Steak, this beef originated from Japan. It is made from cattle that are massaged and fed 1 beer daily. This is to create distinctly fatty cuts when the time comes to turn the cattle into beef. This beef is very tender and low in cholesterol which makes it a delicious meat that is widely sought after. For a 16-ounce cut of Kobe Beef, one must pay $1240.

Key Takeaway

Food in a necessity, but at times it is also a luxury. Try and find some of the aforementioned foods and taste them for yourself, then decide if they’re truly worth their prices.

Yummy Asian Hors D’oeuvres Ideas

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What are great ideas for yummy Asian Hors D’oeuvres to choose from?

Thai Green Curry Hot Wings
Snow Peas with Toasted Sesame Seeds
Pork and Kimchi Dumplings
Baked Crab Rangoon
Bacon Wrapped Rice Cakes with Jalapeno Ponzu
Butternut-Squash and Sage Wontons
Vietnamese Meatballs
Asian-style Baby Back Ribs
Pork Egg Rolls
Japanese-style Chilled Tofu
Adobo Chicken Wings
Korean Rice Cakes
Padang-style Mashed Potato Fritters
Nori Maki

It can take a lot to pull off great events and grand celebrations. Especially for high-tier events, catering is usually hired for convenience. This is because these services offer wide selections of dishes they can choose from. When it comes to catering in Manila, the rich culture of The Philippines is definitely an advantage. This is because it’s one of the countries in Asia with a vast range of dishes. Not only that, but also their chefs are talented in being able to cook international cuisines.

For sure, adding new recipes to your event will be no problem for your caterer. They will surely be open to suggestions because they’d want the best for you, your event and most importantly, your guests.

You definitely have to be able to entice the guests to have a great meal. To create a good first impression, make sure the hors d’oeuvres are delicious. Here are some yummy suggestions from around Asia that you can have your caterer make:

Thai Green Curry Hot Wings

Everybody loves hot wings. Add that Asian flare to your everyday chicken wings by adding some Thai green curry. Though these are little bit spicy, these wings will surely be a hit at your party.

Snow Peas with Toasted Sesame Seeds

Peas aren’t exactly what you’d call party material because not a lot of people go gaga over this particular vegetable. However, with the help of sesame seeds, you can turn this underrated veggie to be a party favorite. The light crunch of the snow peas along with the added tastiness of toasted sesame seeds make this snack a must-have for any party.

Pork and Kimchi Dumplings

A good dumpling is enjoyed by anyone, but the Pork and Kimchi types are a special variant that you can expect your guests to receive with a warm welcome. Stuffed with ground pork and kimchi, this Hors d’oeuvres is meaty, slightly spicy, and definitely delicious

Baked Crab Rangoon

Crab Rangoon is a staple in many Chinese restaurants, and most would prefer it as an appetizer. Instead of going for the basic crab Rangoon, change it up a little by baking it rather than frying to make it lighter and healthier for you and your guests’ tummy.

Bacon Wrapped Rice Cakes with Jalapeno Ponzu

Rice cakes and bacon is perhaps the best fusion ever. Chewy rice cakes are a famous Korean snack that blends perfectly well with the smoky and crispy texture of bacon. Adding a fiery kick to this dish is the jalapeno-ponzu. This dish is one of the easiest to prepare so don’t hesitate to add this to your menu. You can even try making it on your own for a good home snack.

Butternut-Squash and Sage Wontons

Stuffed wontons are perfect for cold, windy seasons and any winter event. Whether steamed or fried, depending on your personal taste, you will surely enjoy it as a Hors d’oeuvre.

Vietnamese Meatballs

If you want a different take on the usual pasta and meatballs combination, then the Vietnamese meatballs recipe is the perfect choice for you. A mix of ginger, scallions, cilantro, and ground chicken brought this recipe to a whole new level, especially when paired with a rich, nut dipping sauce.

Asian-Style Baby Back Ribs

With the many versions of back ribs recipes out there, it’s surprising that only a few have that true pork flavor. In this regard, this recipe is your saving grace. You will definitely you’ll leave the guests in awe with this perfect blend of lemongrass, chile, ginger in braising liquid, and the faint spice on the hoisin sauce.

Pork Egg Rolls

Hors d’oeuvres don’t have to be that complicated. A simple but delicious option is the pork egg roll. This certainly no problem for your caterer because of how easy it is to make. In fact, you can do this on your own. Just stuff aplenty of ground pork and vegetables, and you’re good to go. Plus, if you’re not comfortable with frying them, then bake it. Either way, it’s just the same.

Japanese-Style Chilled Tofu

If you want to star tofu on the event’s menu, then opt for this recipe. You can serve it with various savory condiments that your guests can freely choose from and enjoy. But control yourself and have only five variants so you don’t end up having a whole table of condiments.

Adobo Chicken Wings

Adobo’s the most popular Filipino cuisine that it is usually served as a main dish by catering. But in case you want it as an appetizer, then you can use this recipe. Using chicken wings as the staple ingredient, this is marinated in soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves which makes it a bite size version of the Filipino classic. For better results, you can pair it with a creamy, ginger-based dipping sauce, and chile-dusted apple cuttings.

Korean Rice Cakes

As mentioned before, rice cakes are delicious. Also, Korean culture, it is widely embraced around the world. With these in mind, the Korean rice cakes can play an interesting part in your event’s menu. It has sweet, tasty fillings that include chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and red beans and is best served with honey. When all the ingredients are together, it just needs to be steamed.

Padang-Style Mashed Potato Fritters

Surely, this potato recipe will definitely make your guests’ day. Originating from the city of Padang, Indonesia, nasi padang meals are commonly served with these crispy mashed potato fritters. To make this recipe, you’ll need to blend mashed potatoes with freshly grated nutmeg and pan-fried shallots then dip them in beaten egg and fry.

Nori Maki

A Japanese-style appetizer that’s perfect for special events, this Nori Maki recipe is a game changer. This makes an even tastier version of the usual maki. It is stuffed with sweet Japanese omelet, flaky fish, plump shiitake mushrooms, blanched carrots, dried squash or tender kampyo, and mizuna.

Key Takeaway

Don’t forget to discuss the choices with your caterer, because they will gladly help you make the right choices. Special events need to have special dishes and everything should be unique to the last detail. When in doubt, join taste-testing sessions to make sure you don’t miss out on any good food that is new to your palate. When it comes to food, being open to new, well-made dishes never hurt anyone.

13 Napkin Folding Ideas for Corporate Catering

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What are great napkin folding ideas for corporate events?

Lotus Napkin Folds
Modern Napkin Fold
Rose Napkin Folds
Napkin Pockets
Stemware Folds
Envelope Folds
Spear Napkin Folds
Four-feather Napkin Folds
Lily Goblet Napkin Folds
Open Book Napkin Folds
Slide Napkin Folds
Necktie Napkin Folds
Double-roll Napkin Folds

Being huge factor in creating the aura of a dining event, table napkins is one of the most treasured gems of corporate catering and cuisine. In fact, napkin table folding is an art that many catering services try to master. Simple as they are, nicely folded napkins add an elegant appeal to the overall aesthetic look of a table. For many, it is neglected because they deem it to be a mundane décor; the top catering businesses know better.

Whether it is for a corporate event or otherwise, it is still considered to be an important aspect or element in a catering service. For some insights on the most go-to or preferred style of napkin folding, here’s a quick list:

Lotus Napkin Fold

Image from Food.com

The lotus napkin fold is also known as the water lily or the artichoke. Since the design leaves a space in the center it gives you the opportunity to place something there like a card or dinner roll. Remember to use pressed linen or cotton napkins when trying to do this fold.

Modern Napkin Fold

Image from MarthasStewart.com

This elegant and striking contemporary napkin folds will definitely please any eyes that will set upon it. They’re one of the easiest to make and the most fun as well. By simply rolling to napkins together atop a diamond placed, one can create that simple yet fabulous and classy design.

Rose Napkin Fold

Image from therosemaryhouse.blogspot.com

There are some napkin folds that make you feel guilty for undoing due to its sheer beauty. The rose napkin fold is one of those. True to its name, the intricate aesthetics of this fold imitates a rose. Many caterers adore this napkin fold because they are a nice, fresh addition to the visuals of a romantic theme.

Basic Napkin Fold

Image from stltoday.com

When hiring catering services, every detail is given the most delicate and meticulous touch. So, don’t be surprised if your silverware is draped or tucked neatly into napkin pockets; caterers to do this to add a touch of sophistication. It can also be a gentle reminder for you to mind your table etiquette.

Accordion Napkin Fold

Image from eBay

More popularly known as the stemware folds, a napkin in an accordion fold is an artful accent to any holiday table; it gives off that festive mood. Doing this is as easy as folding the pleats in half, then fanning out the top pleats of the napkin. They’re perfect for special occasions like Christmas, New Year, and even Valentine’s Day.

Envelope Napkin Fold

A napkin in an envelope fold complements any corporate event perfectly because it is classic and easy to unfold. In order to achieve its best form, it is recommended to use cotton and linen dinner napkins that have been thoroughly ironed. Plus, it only takes a few folds and it’s good to go.

Spear Napkin Fold

If a simple yet elegant accessory is preferred to truly emphasize the event’s theme, then a spear napkin fold can deliver that statement to the guests. With its powerful, intricate details, the guests will definitely have a hard time looking away.

Four-Feather Napkin Fold

Given that there could be plenty of guests, it’s crucial to make a table look less crowded. For this matter, your catering service may make use of a four-feather napkin fold to maximize the space, while emphasizing a professional accent. This napkin fold works best when lightly pressed and placed upright in a glass.

Lily Goblet Napkin Fold

A stiff or slightly starched napkin can make a lily goblet napkin fold possible. One must make use of the accordion fold to start. Afterwards, while keeping the open ends at the top, it must be folded in two and then it can be tucked it into a glass – preferably a wine glass to make a classic yet professional statement. For the final touch, the loose corners can be distributed evenly by gently pulling them apart.

Open-Book Napkin Fold

If aiming to include a business card or the event program into the table setup without taking in too much space, then this napkin fold is the best choice to go for. With a plain edge and nicely bordered napkin, this simple yet easy open book napkin fold can be done.

Slide Napkin Fold

For something fancy, but not too complex, the slide napkin fold makes a reasonable option. This fold does not require too much attention yet creates an interesting vibe in a table set up. With a clean execution of the folds and a napkin of stiff material, a perfect form of the slide napkin folds can be created.

Necktie Napkin Fold

If the audiences are all men – such as for a Father’s Day event – this specific napkin fold can do the work for you. You just need to use a masculine colored napkin; preferably a plain one to maintain a professional vibe. Thus, this must be folded into a necktie with the utensils tucked in it. With this setup, the guests will feel like that they are being celebrated.

Double-Roll Napkin Fold

For an Asian-themed event, your catering service can make use of a double roll napkin fold technique. It just needs a few folds and rolls here and there with the utensils on top of it to finish the look you’re aiming for.

Key Takeaway

Napkin folding is an art that everyone should learn to appreciate. The next time you have a meal and find your napkin folded in a unique manner, take a moment to admire the craftsmanship. Notice how it affects the overall ambiance of your table. You may even try to replicate it at home for special meals or to level up your dinner parties. Also check out other types of napkin folds to find more that you like and want to learn how to make. If all else fails, just make a request from your caterer on your next event.

Layers of Heaven: 8 Popular Wedding Cake Flavors

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What are the most popular wedding cake flavors?

Vanilla
Lemon
Carrot
Red Velvet
Chocolate
White Chocolate with Raspberry
Coconut and Lime
Pink Champagne

As the quintessential centerpiece of the reception, a wedding cake is one of the most iconic details that you need to take care of when it comes to planning the wedding catering. Every caterer in the industry knows just how vital the existence of this pastry is. In fact, most people would agree that a wedding is just not quite the same without the cake (and, of course, the wine). As a result, the pressure is always on to find the perfect wedding cake.

The symbolic tradition of the bride and groom cutting the wedding cake together has been around for too much of a long time to simply ignore finding the one that suits your celebration the best. However, over the years, the details and designs of wedding cakes have become more and more varied to suit the flow of time and trends. In addition to aesthetics, taste is also highly important as wedding cakes now come in more varieties of flavors. With that being said, here are some of the most popular wedding cake flavors of all time:

Vanilla

The traditional vanilla is perhaps the most popular choice of wedding cake flavor for two main reasons: it is white, which means it is perfect for a wedding; and it goes with anything in terms of taste and aesthetics. You can’t go wrong with plain vanilla because even if it’s the most basic flavor; you can dress it up any way you like with essentially any frosting, filling, or fruit. This makes it the perfect base for any exotic, experimental and fun flavors. Feel free to go wild with ideas with this cake because, even if your exciters aren’t crowd pleasers, the classic vanilla cake will still please your guests’ taste.

Chocolate

The classic chocolate cake still remains a staple for any event; even weddings. The reason why this is so is because it boasts a familiarly delicious taste that cannot be beat. At the same time, it can come in different flavoring options and levels of richness. This possibility for variation keeps the palate excited to taste a chocolate cake no matter how many times one has had a slice.

While it is a usual cake flavor for children, it can be elevated to reach a use for formal events with flavor accents such as orange, mint, and strawberry. You can also intensify the richness by choosing a chocolate fudge cake or keep it light with a German variation.

Such freedom to blend the flavors to one’s preferences make a chocolate cake am attractive choice as a wedding cake; so that the cake can be adjusted to the bride and groom’s taste.

Lemon

Light and tangy, lemon wedding cakes are actually more common than you’d think. Citrus flavors are especially perfect for ceremonies during springtime. At the same time, they are great for people who prefer a taste that is not too heavy and rich. Lemon is even perfect to pair with raspberries or strawberries, plus add a dash of whip cream or buttercream frosting.

Carrot

Carrot cakes are becoming a popular choice nowadays. Grated carrots are actually yummy, and complement the moist and lovely consistency of the cake. It’s definitely a great alternative to the more common flavors. As a matter of fact, if you pair it with cream cheese frosting, it is truly a heavenly piece of a pastry.

Red Velvet

Red velvet is a relatively new flavor. Its deep red color serves as a wonderful representation of love and romance; as for the taste, it has rich and smooth flavor and velvety cream cheese frosting. There are plenty of variations of the red velvet cake. For weddings, the scarlet layers are hidden underneath white frosting. Red accents are also added to make the cake appear more striking.

White Chocolate with Raspberries

Popular since 2014, this cake flavor combines the sweet taste of white chocolate and the tart or raspberry. The best part about it is that you can choose however you want to add the raspberry; it can either be in cream, filling, or jam. This fresh take on the white chocolate cake has become a staple for Paul of Darwen Deli Cakes who has stated that “although we’ve done mental flavors for wedding cakes… [one of] the most popular flavors at the moment for us is White Chocolate and Raspberry.”

Not to mention, that this white version of chocolate is easy to match with any wedding theme.

Coconut and Lime

This is for those who want to add a tropical flavor to their wedding cake. A creamy coconut cake with a tangy lime filling is a heavenly combination that will remind anyone of an island vacation or a quick beach-trip getaway. It’s also perfect for those that want to stray away from common wedding cake flavors. Although this cake challenges the norm, it has been rising in popularity to be used in weddings since 2014.

Pink Champagne

Instead of using water in the batter of your wedding cake, why not use champagne? This will certainly be a fun addition to encourage your guests to jumpstart the party at the reception. You can also help boost the alcohol content as well by adding some rum custard.

Turn it pink by having some food coloring added to it. Do this as well to some white chocolate shavings to add some garnish on top alongside some Bavarian whipped cream. Optionally, you can add some strawberry toppings to fit the pink insides of the cake.

Key Takeaway

When it comes to wedding cakes, it doesn’t always have to be the traditional white cake with bride and groom toppers. When choosing a cake, pick from any of these 8 choices. These are extremely popular, flexible in flavor, and are sure to satisfy your wedding guests.

These 8 choices are more than enough for you to be able to choose a flavor that will cater you and your future spouse’s tastes, especially with the limitless possibilities of flavor pairings such as toppings and fillings. No matter what you choose, pleasure and good tastes are sure to follow shortly.