Category Archives: Catering in Manila

9 Ideas For Delicious Home Meals

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What are good dishes that can be made and served at home?

  1. Macaroni and Cheese
  2. Pot Roast
  3. Steamed Vegetables
  4. Roast Chicken
  5. Baked Salmon
  6. Beef Stew
  7. Carbonara
  8. Baked Eggplant Parmesan
  9. Shrimp, Leek, and Spinach Pasta

Food is always a delectable topic to talk about and it’s not surprising to experience for yourself a myriad of flavors and tastes that leave you breathless and wanting for more – but that appeal will only last anyone for so long. People love food, sure, but people are also prone to getting tired of their favorite things from time to time. Whether it is a simple lunch, a hearty dinner or the most sumptuous catering in Manila, spicing things up every now and then is sure to reignite the spark that made you love food anew.

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Compiled in this list are a few good examples of delicious food to help you give your meals a jump in flavor:

Macaroni and Cheese

Ah, the classic Mac n’ Cheese. Relive the taste of your childhood by serving up a hot and cheesy plate of Macaroni and Cheese to your family and guests. Oozing cheesy goodness, the classic Mac n’ Cheese is sure to fill stomachs and put smiles in everybody’s faces.

The best part of this meal is that it can be enjoyed in many ways because of the abundance of recipes; some of which pair it up with other foods. It goes great with chicken ranch and pizza in particular.

Ingredients can even be added or used in higher or lower amounts. Have you even tried mac n’ cheese with jalapeno, bacon, or cavatappi. You should! It will change your perspective on the well-known dish. There is even a dish that uses an Italian three-cheese recipe. That seems out of this world and people will only keep on experimenting.

At home, you can try what you and your family would love the best. Eventually you’ll come across your own family recipe that you can pass on for ages!

Pot Roast

The elegant pot roast cooked to perfection. Imagine slicing up that pristine first piece of meat from the hot and tender pot roast. Delicious.

For those that haven’t the pleasure of having pot roast, it’s a braised beef dish. Usually, this is cooked by using a technique called browning. This squeezes out any excess fat. In doing so, the beef gets a brown color; thus, the name. Also, there is a distinct taste and tender texture that results from this (this phenomenon is called the Maillard reaction).

Both filling and hearty, the pot roast has been a staple in most American gastronomy. So why not have a taste of American culture at home? Try serving it with carrots, potatoes and onions to enjoy what is called a “Yankee pot roast” in North America.

Steamed Vegetables

Delicious and healthy, steamed vegetables are the perfect companion for food. Fish, Chicken, Beef, Pork and even Pasta is perfectly complimented by this buttery meal.

Roast Chicken

Chicken is a great meal for any occasion and roasted chicken is definitely one of the safest ways to prepare your chicken. Healthy and addicting, the juicy chicken meal is sure to delight your family.

Baked Salmon

If you want something healthy and filled with good for your heart vitamins, Salmon is the way to go. Baked Salmon is good for any holiday and it goes great with wine!

If ever you find yourself craving for more than just baked salmon, then try it along with a creamy cucumber-fennel salad. It’s a quick and easy meal that you can do. If you’re in a particular rush, then you can prepare the side salad ahead of time; around 12 hours in advanced. Create it with some cucumbers and fennel which will give it a satisfying crunch. For aesthetic purposes, you can reserve some fennels for some garnishing to please the eye. Store this in the fridge so that you can grab it any time you whip up some baked salmon. The marriage of these two scrumptious is a home meal that you will always crave for.

Beef Stew

Stewed to perfection (no puns intended), the traditional beef stew is the epitome of dinner time meals. Easy to prepare and even easier to consume, surprise your family and friends by bringing out this titan of a meal.

Carbonara

Creamy, cheesy and meaty, the pasta carbonara is the Italian’s homey taste of family. This meal is extremely versatile as you can prepare it with any number of cheeses, with beef, fish, chicken or pork and you can’t ever go wrong with a hot plate of carbonara on your dinner table.

Baked Eggplant Parmesan

Where have you ever read the phrase cheesy and healthy? Why here, of course. The baked eggplant parmesan is the healthy alternative to the other pasta meals on this list. Eggplant is rich dietary fiber and is rich in various vitamins and minerals. Delicious, healthy and cheesy, the Baked Eggplant Parmesan is truly a gift from the heavens.

Shrimp, Leek, and Spinach Pasta

This dish is the answer if you are in search for a meal that’s light, hearty, and full of vegetables and protein. While it may seem like the adult health buff’s dream dinner, it’s also great for kids because it tastes like macaroni and cheese. They will eat what seems like a guilty food trip to them. They won’t know or mind that there two vegetables mixed in it when it tastes so good.

The leeks and shrimp are sautéed on butter while the pasta cooked. With a warm past, the spinach will naturally wilt to it. Topping it off with a light cream sauce with a bit of lemon added will be what you need to satisfy that palate. The best part is all of this will be prepared in just 20 minutes.

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Key Takeaway

There are a lot of other meals that you can prepare to compliment the food on this list, some cheeses, fruits and salads but what makes a meal great is sharing it with friends and family. Give your special someone a smile and make them a delicious meal that they will never forget.

The Characteristics of a Quality Caterer

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What makes a good caterer?

  1. Being adaptable to provide any menu at the best quality.
  2. Being able to perform the service in a timely manner.
  3. Being able to manage a large team to work as one.
  4. Being able to keep the client happy.
  5. Being able to keep their employees.
  6. Complying to food safety regulations.

Hiring catering in Manila can seemingly be a daunting task for anyone. Luckily, in this article, we will teach you what characteristics you should looks for in a catering service to know if they can deliver.

What makes a caterer good are really just a few basic things. It’s how the caterer is able to balance all these things altogether that will give him a name in the business. By being able to take simple cogs and form them into a complex set of gears that work together, a caterer can turn even the simplest dining event into a grand gathering. This is the type of service that you want

However, in this article, we’re going to focus on you, the consumer, and we’re going to help you choose the caterer that’s best for you. That’s right, today we’re going to be discussing the qualities that make up a quality caterer!

food laid out on a counter

What Makes a Good Caterer?

This particular subject may be a bit complex to hear, but important nonetheless. What makes a caterer good are a few basic things that altogether form a larger, more complex series of gears that mesh together to make a great event even better. Here are a few things that may shed some light with the matter at hand:

The Menu: Delicious No Matter What

Firstly, the most basic and essential ingredient in making the perfect caterer is the menu. But when the word “menu” is mentioned here, it doesn’t mean the caterer’s own personal menu full of his own specialties; it means his his ability to create any quality menu.

The keyword is in the name of the service itself: “cater”. A good catering service must do exactly what this word means by knowing how to adjust their menu to serve its client’s needs. But not only that; they also need to know to pull off the said menu without compromising quality and integrity then that’s perfect. Basically, it has to taste like it’s their specialty; even though it isn’t.

That being said, it’s a big plus if the caterer is highly knowledgeable in different cultures, customs, and religions. That way, they can provide quality food no matter what an event’s guest list may be while knowing the appropriate manners and gestures to use while serving.

Furthermore, the menu is the lifeblood of any catering service. Even if the food looks great, if it doesn’t taste great then that’s going to be a problem. The caterer has to be willing to go the extra mile to ensure that their food tastes as good as it looks.

Logistics and Practice: Efficiency of Service

While being adaptable to create any menu is a good quality of a caterer, another is the passion for food service. This may be a given already considering that they are in the catering business, but what’s being referred to here is the willingness to go through the various processes of such a service. This entails that they must study, master, and continuously improve their storage, transportation, cooking, and presentation methods.

Organizational Skills: Management of Resources

Being a caterer doesn’t just mean food and service. It means management of a team and all the resources needed to run the entire service during the event proper. With both a front and back end staff to manage, you will want a caterer that can manage both smoothly. Since food presentation and preparation takes a while, you must be able to trust a caterer that they know how to organize and time their actions to make sure food is always coming out of the kitchen.

The Customer Experience: Care for Work

In connection to the caterer’s willingness to adapt to suit the client’s needs, a suitable customer service experience is expected of the caterers as well. This means that the staff of the service must have good work ethic, be well-mannered, and care for the services they provide; the making of any good customer service. This is especially because they will be working closely with with the customer in designing their menu and fine-tuning everything for the event. Doing so requires time, patience, diplomacy, and good communication; some of the facets of a good customer experience. After all, there is no point for a caterer to be willing to adapt if they offend the customer along the way.

Employee Motivation: A Reflection of their Empathy

This article already discusses in length why a caterer must provide good customer service must be adaptable to the customer’s need. But the underlying reason as to why you need to find these qualities in a caterer is because these show their motivation to work. When a caterer and their staff are motivated, they are also sincere with their work. This means that they are 100% willing to provide their service.

This can work backwards. Meaning that you can see if a catering service is good if their employees look motivated. If they do not, then take this a warning sign that it’s possible that the service doesn’t care for their own employee satisfaction. Be wary of this because it may be a reflection of how the treat their clients or at least their sincerity in doing so.

Details, Details: Giving Your Event the Attention it Needs

Another quality that makes a caterer good is their attention to detail. Like what we discussed earlier, everybody wants to make their event as perfect as possible and one way of doing so is fine-tuning details with the customer and for the caterer to meet the client’s demand, the caterer has to both be attentive and willing. Attention to detail entails acknowledgement, planning and execution of small ideas with little to no mistakes to help them form the bigger idea that is the event.

For a caterer, this means that they have to be attentive and willing to plan with the client. If they can do this then you will know that the value the roles of all the small factors when it comes to planning an event. In other words, they must understand that the tiniest details are the building blocks of the whole event. But not only that; they must execute said details well and with little mistakes.  A caterer that gives these little things attention is one that cares for you and your event.

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Food Safety: Catering Common Sense

Finally, what makes a good caterer great is of course, food safety. Obviously, the food must be safe to eat. Nobody wants to get sick and no caterer is willing to risk their client’s safety; not mention their name! Thus, you can check if a caterer has good standards if he knows they are updated with food safety laws always and comply with them.

Look at how they store, cook, and handle food. Also, try to know if they prioritize fresh food over frozen ones.

Key Takeaway

We’ve been talking about the caterer’s willingness throughout the article but I’d like to discuss that in more detail. Why would a caterer be unwilling to provide service or to adapt themselves to suit the client’s needs? The answer is motivation. The caterer and their staff have to be motivated and sincerely willing in order for them to provide a satisfactory customer service experience. Remember, a good catering service not only provides quality food but they also have to treat their people well and how caterers treat their employees may be a reflection of how they treat people in general, customers included.

Finally, what makes a good caterer great is of course, acquiesce. Quality in terms of food safety and their willingness to adapt to suit the client’s needs while maintaining their standards. Obviously, food safety is an important issue for both the caterer and the consumer. Nobody wants to get sick and no caterer is willing to risk their client’s safety, especially us at Juan Carlo.

Sure there are a lot more qualities to consider but these basic qualities are what we believe to be the frame the supports a business and we believe that these qualities make a good caterer, great.

Thom ngon! Vitalizing Vietnamese Dishes

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Image from PhoCafe UK

Image from PhoCafe UK

Expand your food choices from catering in Manila and request something different— Vietnamese cuisine. This Southeast Asian country has been capturing the palettes of different nationalities around the world, and you and your guests are sure to enjoy these Asian delicacies. If you don’t know what to serve, these dishes are sure to hit the right spot.

 

Goi Cuon

Ranking number 30 on CNN Go’s 2011 World’s 50 Most Delicious Foods, Goi Cuon is definitely a must try dish for anyone new to Vietnamese cuisine. Also known as Vietnamese Spring Roll, this dish is composed of pork, shrimp, a variety of vegetables and rice vermicelli (locally known as bún) all wrapped up in a bánh tráng (rice paper). It is traditionally served with tuong xao (hoisin sauce) or peanut sauce. Goi Cuon is a favorite in any Vietnamese restaurant around the world, proving that it is indeed and truly one of the most delicious foods on this planet.  

Ca Phe Sua Da

Ah, coffee. Where would we be without this bittersweet drink? Some of us cannot function in the morning without our cup of Joe, while others simply must have it if they plan to burn the midnight oil.  Yup, students, we’re talking to you. In Vietnam, there is a special kind of coffee any caffeine addict must try: the Ca Phe Sua Da. Passing by the cafes in Vietnam, you may have noticed glasses topped with astrange silverware. This is the Ca Phe sua da. At the bottom of the glass is sweetened condensed milk and the instrument on top is the cà phê phin or French Dip Filter. From it, locally produced dark roast coffee mixed with water will slowly trickle down the condensed milk. After it’s done dripping, the cà phê phin is removed and the coffee mixture is poured over ice. The result is a delicious, ice cold drink perfect for a hot day.

Pho

The first dish most people would think of when Vietnamese Cuisine is mentioned is usually the noodle soup “Pho”. Follow it with the protein and “Pho” becomes “Pho Ga” for chicken or “Pho Bo” for beef. It is said you can find its origins in Northern Vietnam in early 20th century. Its first appearance in a dictionary can be traced to a 1931 dictionary, being defined as a dish comprised of slivers of rice cake boiled with beef. These days this bowl is made of rice noodles, broth and a protein. Its garnishes include basil, bean sprouts and lemon.

Banh Xeo

It may looked like an overstuffed omelet at first, but with just one bite you will no longer be left wondering why many foreigners fall for the Bánh xèo. Meaning “sizzling cake”, it can be described as a savory fried pancake made from rice flour, turmeric powder, and water then stuffed with a variety of ingredients such as pork sliced, bean sprouts and shrimp. In some regions, it’s made with coconut milk while others disregard the turmeric powder. When eaten, one usually wraps it inside a lettuce leaf or a rice paper wrapper then dipped into a sweet and sour diluted fish sauce. 

Chè Trôi Nuoc

There are numerous varieties of Che, but Chè trôi nuoc is definitely one of the best known. It has a glutinous rice dumpling with mung bean paste in the center. This dessert is served in sweet ginger syrup and served warm with a garnishing of sesame seeds.

 

Vietnamese cuisine is healthy and delicious. For sure your guests will be saying Thom ngon (Vietnamese for ‘delicious’) at the end of their meal.

11 Fun Ways to Serve Wedding Reception Food

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Jaclyn Simpson Photography

Jaclyn Simpson Photography

What are fun ideas on ways to serve food in a wedding reception?

  1. Serving Mini Dishes
  2. Serving Kebabs and Barbecue
  3. Innovating Your Comfort Food
  4. Including Food Options for Vegans
  5. Planning an All-Day-Breakfast-themed Reception
  6. Having an Abundance in Variety
  7. Having an Ice Cream Sundae Bar
  8. Serving Mexican Food
  9. Having a Bar Dedicated to Popcorn
  10. Serving Carnival-themed Food
  11. Serving Different Kinds of Beer ‘Oktoberfest’ style

One of the best things about having catering in manila is that you get to try dishes you’ve never even tasted before. Not only can it widen the variety of dishes in your menu, but it can also give your guests something new and unique for them to enjoy.

While you can opt for a set menu and serving your guests all the same things, it could be fun to mix up a little. If you think it’s time to think outside the box and explore different flavors, here are a few suggestions we have for you:

Mini Dishes

Sometimes miniature versions of your favorite meals make even more of a statement than their full-sized counterparts, especially with the amount of flavor many of them pack in one bite. For example, instead of dining in the comfortable taste of a huge bowl of spaghetti, use a single meatball and top it with spaghetti with a bit of sauce. It will be more fun to eat that way, plus the guests can consume it in just a couple of bites. Also, this is a chance for your guests to have a bit of everything in the menu served at your reception.

Kebabs and Barbecues

Although they are considered to be ‘cook-out’ food that is best reserved for more casual get-togethers, kebabs and barbecues are actually still good to serve at weddings. Your guests will surely love them. Aside from crowd favorites like barbecue and meat kebabs, you can serve lamb and meatballs on toothpicks for extra-easy devouring.

Innovate your Comfort Food

Home-cooked favorites are instantly elevated when served in unexpected ways. Like for example, love the taste of grilled cheese but you’re scared they’re not fancy enough to be served at a wedding? Worry not because your caterer will surely be able to find a way to reinvent them. You can have mini grilled sandwiches served on toothpicks with dainty tomato soup shooters to make it more formal and fit for the occasion.

Braedon Photography

Braedon Photography

Vegan Delight

Appetizers usually entail the serving of heavy carbs like potatoes and the likes. Keep it healthy by appealing to the lighter portion of your guests. Put in a few delicious ‘good-for-you’ options on the menu, such as baby-Greek salad – serve this mouth-watering appetizer in mini cup and voila you’ve got yourself a healthy delight.

All-Day Breakfast

Many people only like mornings because of the food. This comes as no surprise as breakfast is a scrumptious meal that jumpstarts your day. So why not serve it at your wedding? A good example of a breakfast dish would be a bacon cup filled with scrambled eggs. This dish will surely give an elegant twist on the classic morning staple.

An Abundance of Variety

An abundant buffet is a great way to ensure everyone in your reception will get what they want. But it can also become an appetizing focal point. Be mindful and intricate about your buffet and whip up something like a cheese station with an array of mild and strong flavors of different cheeses from goat, cow and sheep milk, which can then be paired with wine. Don’t forget to add labels so guests know exactly what they’re having. From fruits, breads and nuts, there are plenty of things to think of to serve.

Ice Cream Sundae Bar

This wedding reception idea may be a common sight in multiple weddings; but, it’s a great addition nonetheless. The thought of being able to create your very own ice cream sundae is enough for anyone to gather around and devour this sugary feast.

Mexican Madness

Everyone loves to eat food with their hands, especially if said food is smothered in meat and cheese. With this idea to serve for your wedding reception, don’t hesitate to go all-out with everything you got. No quesadilla, taco, nacho, or even burrito is off limits on your special day.

Popcorn Bar

For all those who love popcorn, this idea is definitely for you! Not only does this make a great snack for the occasional binge-watch session, but it also makes a great and unique pre-appetizer for your wedding reception.

In fact, if you really wish to kick it up a notch, why not add a wide selection of flavors and toppings for your guests to choose from? Adding extra butter or caramel on your popcorn? Now that’s a definite guarantee for a good time.

Carnival Craziness

Carnival food is something that really tantalizes your child-like taste buds, especially with the amounts of sweetness coupled with this idea. With all the cotton candy, caramel apples, corndogs, and funnel cakes you can indulge in, there’s definitely no mistake to be made with this wedding reception idea.

Oktoberfest in Matrimony

Beer is an all-time favorite for every drinker out there, especially with the Germans with their ever-famous Oktoberfest; and with this idea in your wedding reception, it’s definitely certain that the party will be given a flavorful kick.

For this, feel free to explore the different kinds of beer you and your guests can enjoy. In fact, you can even serve them from taps to give them a sense of authenticity and ingenuity. As long as moderation in drinking is practiced, your guests will be able to have as much fun as they want.

Key Takeaway

There are numerous other ways you can serve wedding reception food that are just as fun and exciting. As such, it’s important to branch out and let your creativity and ingenuity shine.

 Also, when it comes to having a fun and stomach-filled reception, caterers are your best friends. Talk to your local catering service and inquire about the variety of foods you can serve at your wedding.

The Hottest Peppers in the World

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What are the hottest peppers in the world?

  1. Tabasco Pepper- 30,000-50,000 SHU
  2. Pequin Pepper- 100,000-150,000 SHU
  3. Habanero Chili- 100,00-350,000 SHU
  4. Red Savina Habanero- 350,000-580,000 SHU
  5. Carolina Reaper- 1.57 Million SHU
  6. Trinidad Moruga Scorpion- 1.2 Million SHU
  7. 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

Tabasco pepper

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

Pequin pepper

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

Habanero Chili

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

Red Savina Habanero

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

Carolina Reaper

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.

Truly the Best Caterers in Manila – Juan Carlo

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Thousands of celebrations are held every year – especially in Metro Manila. Preparing for these events can be stressful; finding a venue, designing the place, and preparing the food is only a few of the many things one will have to deal with. As such, these obstacles will undoubtedly pose a problem for people who don’t know how to cook or where to get the equipment needed. But don’t fret, catering in Manila is aplenty.

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Of course, there are different companies that offer catering services in Manila, one of which is Juan Carlo. This catering company has been in the business for a long time, boasting a long list of satisfied clientele. So if you’re hosting a party this December, instead of trying to prepare the food — and possibly failing — save time and effort by hiring Juan Carlo instead!

Why Hire a Catering Company

There are different benefits to hiring a catering company for your party or event. Consider the following:

  • Food and Preparation Management

Should you decide to hire a catering company for your party this December, you’ll be hitting two birds with one stone. First off, your caterers will take care of the food — right from the appetizers up to the desert. All you have to do is discuss with them the type of food that you want to be prepared.

Secondly, if you’re having trouble with any aspect of the event preparation, your caterer can help with that too. Catering companies – while most center on the food – are also able to provide other services as well. A karaoke machine, photo booth, or even video coverage in your party can be easily set up – just say the word!

  • Time and Cost Efficiency

Catering companies are party experts. This means that they know exactly what ingredients to buy for your menu or what kind of sound system would be best for your venue – this will save you time and money as attempting to prepare them yourself will likely end in disaster.

  • Party Planning

Preparing a party is a very stressful event, especially for those who are inexperienced. Caterers can help with this as their knowledge and professional training will come in handy whenever you should run into any problems; they can help in any aspect from theme planning, venue hunting, and even the actual set-up.

  • Professional Guidance

Catering companies prepare different events all year long. These professionals are equipped with skills and experience that they can share with you. With their guidance, the preparation and arrangement for your event will surely be perfect and hassle-free.

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The Best Catering Service in Manila

Truly there are a lot of benefits to hiring a catering company for your party or event. But, be wary because picking a caterer is no easy task; there are a lot to choose from though as catering services are prolific in Manila. One of the many is, of course, Juan Carlo, and since its establishment in the 90s, they have served a long list of clients and have been given recognition countless times.

When it comes to corporate catering, Juan Carlo is a name that’s always been sought out by companies and individuals alike. Time and time again, they have proven why they are on top of the game by constantly providing high quality service and equally delicious food.

They offer four different catering packages: wedding, corporate, debut, and children’s packages. Each package is equipped with amenities and perks that you will surely enjoy!

Speaking of, weddings are a prime example of how Juan Carlo can really liven up an event. Some of the amenities included in their wedding package are a grand wedding background design, doves in a decorated cage, and a 3 layered wedding cake. You’ll definitely feel like kings and queens on your wedding day!

The corporate package is also a great way to spice up any company event. Whether you are holding a simple conference meeting, launching a new product or brand, or simply going on a summer excursion, this company’s catering service – in addition to providing great food – will surely impress you and your business partners alike.

A woman’s 18th birthday is important. If your daughter is celebrating her debut soon, make sure that it would be memorable and meaningful; Juan Carlo can help you with that. Their debut package has amenities including a 3 layered fondant cake and your daugther’s very own princess’ chair.

Juan Carlo is also an expert in children’s parties. With their help, you can throw the most entertaining celebration for your kids. Both the kids and their parents will be in awe with the colorful set-up and eye-catching design provided by the catering company.

Lengua De Cecilia

Through the years, Juan Carlo has helped make memorable events and parties for millions of Filipinos. Their experience, knowledge, and skills put them ahead of hundreds of their competitors, especially in Manila. So if you want to throw the best celebration, make sure to hire the best catering company in Manila.

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

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What are the most expensive foods in the world?

  1. Truffles
  2. Saffron
  3. Kopi Luwak
  4. Vanilla
  5. Balsamic Vinegar
  6. Swiftnest
  7. 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

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

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

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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pork and kimchi dumpling

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

  1. Thai Green Curry Hot Wings
  2. Snow Peas with Toasted Sesame Seeds
  3. Pork and Kimchi Dumplings
  4. Baked Crab Rangoon
  5. Bacon Wrapped Rice Cakes with Jalapeno Ponzu
  6. Butternut-Squash and Sage Wontons
  7. Vietnamese Meatballs
  8. Asian-style Baby Back Ribs
  9. Pork Egg Rolls
  10. Japanese-style Chilled Tofu
  11. Adobo Chicken Wings
  12. Korean Rice Cakes
  13. Padang-style Mashed Potato Fritters
  14. 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?

  1. Lotus Napkin Folds
  2. Modern Napkin Fold
  3. Rose Napkin Folds
  4. Napkin Pockets
  5. Stemware Folds
  6. Envelope Folds
  7. Spear Napkin Folds
  8. Four-feather Napkin Folds
  9. Lily Goblet Napkin Folds
  10. Open Book Napkin Folds
  11. Slide Napkin Folds
  12. Necktie Napkin Folds
  13. 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

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

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/

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

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

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.