Tag Archives: Catering in Manila

5 Uniquely Australian Desserts

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lamingtons juan carlo catering

One of the best things about connecting the world through the internet is the ability to discover other cultures and their practices with a click of the mouse. People all over the world eat different kinds of foods in several different ways, from a food festival in Europe to a catering in Manila; no two countries enjoy delicious food alike.

Culture is an important aspect to study when researching about a country because principally this is the identity of the country and their way of living. Culture is the window to the soul of a country because it is the culmination of several lifetimes’ worth of experience and innovation as a people.

In a way, food is also closely tied with a country’s past because in a way, it too is a reflection of the growth and development that its country went through in the past several decades. This is closely demonstrated in the Philippines where the country survived a couple hundred years under foreign rule.

In connection with this, a country with a fascinating history is of Australia. From early Australian food to English inspired dishes, here are a few examples of traditional Australian treats:

Lamingtons

Described as a sugary sponge cake, coated with chocolate with shaved coconut; Lamingtons are a delicious treat that are sometimes served with sandwiched with cream in the middle, providing a delicious contrast that compliments the chocolate over cream taste that lamingtons are known for.

Fairy Bread

A snack for kids, fairy bread is among the simpler treats on this list. Fairy bread is essentially white bread or even American bread covered with candy sprinkles and coated with butter. This is a tasty treat and is definitely delicious but it should be consumed in moderation as it is high in sugar while devoid of nutritional value that helps people stay healthy and fit.

australian pavlova juan carlo

Pavlova

This creamy treat is best served chilled. Pavlova are shaped like cake meringue with a crispy crust housing a soft and creamy inside. What makes this cake unique is that it is topped with cuts of fresh fruit. Complementing the creamy taste of the meringue is the tangy goodness that the fresh fruits bring to the mix.

Tim Tam

Tim Tams are famously Australian treats. Originally popularized in Australia, Tim Tams are chocolate cookies with chocolate filling that’s coated by chocolate. The triple threat chocolate Australian treat is famous with kids for being delicious and affordable. However, like fairy bread, consumption of Tim Tams are sinful so consuming them in moderation is recommended.

Mint Slice

Like Tim Tams, Mint Slice is a famous Australian treat that’s often eaten for dessert. What makes this treat memorable is the minty aftertaste it leaves after enjoying the chocolate coating and the chocolate cookie inside.

There are many more unique Australian desserts that are available on the market even here in the Philippines. What make these treats unique is their taste as well as the enjoyment that they bring with each and every bite that these sweet treats offer.

The Origin of the Filipino Style Spaghetti

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catering filipino style spaghetti

What is the origin of the Filipino style spaghetti?

  1. The dish was dated back as early as the 1940s to the 1960s.
  2. General Douglas MacArthur was served an “updated” version of the Japanese Neapolitan, which eventually transformed into the classic Filipino-style dish known and loved by many.

The Filipinos are one of those people known for introducing a new flavor to classical dishes. What better dish to add the Pinoy touch to than the classic spaghetti? This traditional Filipino style spaghetti is so delicious that it is a food that is appropriate for any occasion. It can be found everywhere; it can be offered as part of the wedding catering in a fancy hotel or in a simple family dinner at home.

Impact on Filipino Culture

Filipino kids who grew up between the 40s and the 60s can happily say that the local style of spaghetti is one of the brightest images of hope in their day. The ‘40s in particular was a grim time filled with oppression and violence because of World War II. If there was one shining ray of light that surely brought people –  especially children – immense amounts of joy, then it’s this timeless dish.

A lot of people growing up were served their own family’s version of this spaghetti. Some families liked it spicier than usual while others relished in the creaminess that cheese can bring to it. The dish is flexible and that’s what gives it its charm.

But what seals the deal in this ability to customize the dish is how easy it is to do so. Just by adding or removing ingredients or varying their amounts, families could make their own special recipes that they pass on to future generations. If you want to create your own recipe, then you must know what each and every ingredient adds to the dish.

Uniqueness

The number one factor that makes Filipino-Style Spaghetti stand apart from other forms of pasta is its signature taste of its catsup spaghetti sauce. This features a unique tangy sweet flavor that is comparable to the taste of banana ketchup. In fact, other recipes include the use of sugar in their dish to intensify the flavor even further.

Another noteworthy aspect of the Filipino-style spaghetti is its meaty taste. Usually, Filipino-style spaghetti is adorned with ground beef (called ‘Giniling’ in Tagalog). This comes along with garlic and onion to complement its saltiness. It this unique mix of saltiness of the meat and sweetness of the sauce that gives the Filipino style spaghetti its unique taste.

Another thing about this dish is the generosity of cheese in their menu. There are many variants of cheese that can be used. It can either be grated, spread, or even infused into the sauce.

Secrets

While the crux of the Filipino style spaghetti can be made up of ketchup spaghetti sauce, ground beef, onion, garlic, and lots of cheese, the secret recipe that children will always look forward to are the thinly sliced cuts of hotdog that surround the sweet meaty dish. All together, these individual ingredients give the Filipino style spaghetti its uniquely Filipino taste that Filipinos all over the world crave for when they reminisce about their happier, simpler days as children.

Origin

While there isn’t a concrete origin story for Filipino-style spaghetti, research shows that the first instance of it appeared during the final days of World War II. This happened when General Douglas MacArthur tried Spaghetti Neapolitan at a hotel in Japan. While this is entire different from the Filipino version, it is believed that General Douglas MacArthur’s Filipino Adjutant/Staff Member modified it. He then brought the recipe it back with him to the Philippines. Eventually it transformed into the beloved Filipino-style spaghetti.

The ‘problem’ with the origin of the Filipino-style spaghetti is that nobody really took the time to sit down and write how they stumbled upon the recipe. They were too busy enjoying it to think that it needed to be documented. This means that, today, people are stuck with fragmented stories of the history of the Filipino-style Spaghetti. However, this lack of origin is actually what brings the magic to the dish. This because, today, this beloved ‘Filipinized’ dish has numerous variation which makes it loved by all.

Hotdogs for Kids

While the basic Filipino-style spaghetti is made up of catsup spaghetti sauce, ground beef, onion, garlic, and lots of cheese, the secret ingredients that children will always look forward to is the thinly sliced cuts of hotdog that surround the sweet meaty dish. It is this taste that Filipinos all over the world crave for when they reminisce about their happier, simpler days as children.

All together, these individual ingredients give the Filipino-style spaghetti is uniquely Pinoy. Since the flavor could be easily customized by adding or removing ingredients, you can take this opportunity to be more generous in what you’re going to add. Whether it be meat, cheese, or maybe even more pasta, just go for it. You’d be surprised on how happy you’d make your family. The best part is it is just as easy as preparing the classic Italian spaghetti.

Key Takeaway

So there you have it. Though the country’s history in some aspects may not have been kind due to certain circumstances, their culinary journey has nonetheless continued to thrive over the years.

With Filipino-style continuing to make the rounds with spaghetti-lovers everywhere, it’s no doubt that the Filipino-style Spaghetti continues and will continue to bring smiles to people’s faces. It remains to be one of the best foods that the Philippines can offer to both its visitors as well as its beloved residents.

Perfect Food for the Summer

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summer food catering

What are the perfect foods for a summer in the Philippines?

  1. Street Food
  2. Strawberries
  3. Halo-halo
  4. Durian
  5. Sorbetes
  6. Ice Candy
  7. Fruit Shakes
  8. Mais Con Yelo
  9. Buko Juice
  10. Chilled Taho
  11. Leche Flan

It’s the summer season and it’s the time for some fun under the sun! The best thing about summer is that everything seems to take a different hue, from lavish night time parties at the beach to a gorgeous wedding catering in the metro. Summer can make so many things magical, which is why a lot of satisfied customers coordinate with Juan Carlo to cater a beautiful summer event with delicious food.

Summer is also a special time where certain foods can only be fully enjoyed during this wonderful season. In fact, studies show that out-of-season food can actually have its taste and experience deepen, especially during the summer season.

Research suggests that some experiences in summer are special because most of them invoke a sense of nostalgia that can take anyone back to their younger days. Those were the times when it was okay to stay out and play traditional Filipino games as well as sports-related activities with friends. After all of that is done, they would go to one of their friend’s houses and they would be served food that they would crave for even when they’re not hungry.

Summer time food fun

summer juan carlo catering

Aside from the hydrating food we listed in an earlier post, here are some examples of foods that are perfect for the Summer season:

Street food

Directly correlating the research on the psychology of enjoying summer food, street food is one of the best kinds of food to be enjoyed during the season of the sun. Of course, street food is available every day of the year when the familiar and friendly manong parks his cart in front of the office building; while this is true, street food actually tastes better when enjoyed during the summer, away from work and the hustle and bustle of the metro.

Strawberries

While strawberries are carefully grown in places with a cooler climate, there are actually special techniques growers employ in order for them to grow during the summer. While these summer strawberries aren’t exactly the same as the traditional strawberries people enjoy in Baguio, these strawberries taste the same as normal strawberries. The difference being is that summer strawberries are quite harder to grow compared to normal ones – and that’s where their charm shines. Enjoying a chilled-to-perfect strawberry dipped in cream during the heat waves of summer? Bliss.

Halo-halo

This chilled favorite is available for consumption all year round and is especially best enjoyed during the summer season. Each spoonful of fruity, milky goodness will not only quench the eater from the heat of the sun, it will also remind them of the simpler days of their childhood.

Durian

Now this one can be a tough addition. Not everyone can tolerate the smell of the “King of the Fruits”, but its taste is to die for and ironically, its smell too is to die for as well, albeit in a different manner than its actual taste.

The most hardcore of all durian fanatics will argue that while the smell is unappetizing, the milky and creamy texture of the durian is a unique experience in itself. Its taste more than makes up for the uncomfortable smell that the fruit exudes.

Sorbetes

This is a treat for all kids during the summer and they would patiently wait all day for manong sorbeto to pass by with his colorful ice cream cart. Inside the cart would be the iconic sorbetes, which is the Filipino-made ice cream that is made from carabao’s or coconut milk.

It can also come in chocolate, mango, ube, and cheese flavors and can also be served on a cone or in a bun. Because it comes in such an assortment, all kids will definitely be satisfied when manong sorbeto comes around.

Ice Candy

Ice candy is a treat for all ages while also being the most affordable frozen treat that one can buy. Essentially, it is just juice that is placed in a candy wrapper and frozen overnight. With a variety of flavor available, there is no doubt that this treat can be enjoyed by everyone from all walks of life.

Even though the process of making one is simple, the taste and refreshment factor it gives people is something that people crave for consistently. Truly, a treat to cool down even the hottest of temperatures.

Fruit Shakes

Sometimes, to beat the summer heat, one just needs a cold refreshment. Why not add satisfy this craving by indulging in a tasty drink blended with fruit and ice? Depending on how it is made, this can actually be a way to keep oneself hydrated while taking in some healthy nutrients.

Creating one is simple too! A few slices of fruit just need to be mixed together with sugar, milk, and shaved ice in a blender and will only take a few seconds.

Mais Con Yelo

This is another best seller especially during the summer. The mais con yelo is simply a glass of shaved ice with sweetened milk and sweet corn kernel. It can also be enjoyed with add-ons such as a scoop of ice cream, corn flakes, and rice crispies.

Buko Juice

The tropical fruit, buko (coconut), can be seen all over the Philippines. Because of this, a good source of nutrition is always nearby. In fact, if you’re looking for a great counterpart for buko juice, the meat can actually make a great source of calories.

Adding ice to young buko juice can make a really refreshing drink and it can be accented with buko strips, milk, and sugar. You can even serve it in a whole coconut shell to give it that ‘authentic’ feel.

Chilled Taho

Although this snack usually comes with hot caramel, it also comes in a colder version called ‘chilled taho’. It is still made of the same ingredients: silky soy pudding, tapioca pearls, and caramel sauce. The only difference is that it is a chilled version; usually refrigerated.

Leche Flan

Even though it is just an ingredient for halo-halo, Leche Flan is also delicious dessert on its own. It is usually present at any social gathering including summer fiestas and it has a sweet and creamy caramel desert made of eggs, sugar, and milk, that is usually served cold.

Key Takeaway

Of course there are many other food that can be enjoyed during the summer but these four are among the most delicious food that people can enjoy during the summer.

Are you interested in experiencing the most breathtaking wedding catering experience the summer and the metro can offer? Give Juan Carlo’s services a try!

Beating the Heat: Foods that Hydrate

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Food hydration

What are the foods that can help hydrate?

  1. Watermelons
  2. Celery
  3. Cucumbers
  4. Strawberries
  5. Lettuce
  6. Milk
  7. Coconuts
  8. Apples
  9. Spinach
  10. Salads
  11. Yogurt
  12. Shakes

The thing about summer is that it’s a beautiful season to simply enjoy, say, a wedding catering at the beach. When it comes to weddings during the summer, having time for swimming is a fresh alternative to keep cool while enjoying the summer with friends and family. However, summer is also infamous for its scorching heat especially when for the people who live near the equator.

One of the number one reported summer related incidents are heatstroke related. Literally speaking, heatstroke is the condition that is onset with fever and is often accompanied by loss of consciousness. This happens when the body’s thermoregulatory system fails due to extreme heat. The inverse of heatstroke is hypothermia and is caused by extremely low temperatures.

Having fun under the sun is an experience that is often happy. Done with friends or family, summer fun doesn’t necessarily have to be less fun due to fear of heat stroke. In fact, one of the many ways of staying hydrated during the summer is extremely fun – and most importantly, tasty.

Listed here are examples of food that can help beat the heat:

Watermelons

Similar to the human body, majority of watermelons are made up of water. They are characterized by their uniquely red meat filled with seeds and sweet water. Watermelons are made up of sodium, calcium and magnesium and these are essential ingredients in keeping the body optimally hydrated.

Celery

Similar to watermelons, celery is a vegetable that is mostly made up of water. While it isn’t jam-packed with nutrients, it is however extremely light on calories, making it the ideal snack to keep fit and hydrated during the summer.

Cucumbers

Like the previous entries, cucumbers are made up mostly of water. Unlike celeries, however, cucumbers are filled with vitamin K, vitamin B6 and iron making it a perfect accompaniment to sweet hydrating fruits like watermelons.

 

food for hydration

 

Strawberries

Boasting the highest water count among berries, strawberries are jam-packed with fiber and vitamin C. Fiber is known for helping digestion and vitamin C helps with overall maintenance of the body. They’re sweet, delicious and best of all, healthy.

Lettuce

Lettuce is arguably one of the most flexible vegetables on the planet. They’re good raw, they’re good cooked and they’re great paired with other fruits and vegetables. Lettuces are mostly made up of water and they are light in calories making them an ideal meal to substitute rice with, and work great with sandwiches and salads.

Milk

Studies show that milk is an ideal alternative to carbonated drinks and even specially formulated sports drinks. Milk contains the necessary vitamins and minerals that constitute a regular meal as well as the optimal hydration required for the human body. Milk is also a nice addition when making your own healthy shake, and gives it that extra creaminess.

Coconuts

Perhaps the most common type of fruit you’ll be seeing in warm tropical beaches across the world, the coconut is a fruit that is not only delicious, but hydrating as well. The inside of the coconut contains the meat of the fruit, along with some refreshing juice that is best when served cold. The best part is that you can drink the juice from the coconut itself! Coconut juice is also wonderful when served as part of a fruit shake, or even when you add some milk and sugar.

Apples

As the saying goes: “An apple a day, keeps the doctor away.”. Apples are not only healthy fruits that are delicious when added into a pie, it is also a frit that can keep you hydrated. Apples have high water content, which means each bite would give you a good amount of liquids to keep you refreshed.

Spinach

The famous cartoon character, Popeye the Sailorman, is best known for getting stronger after eating a can of spinach. But little did Popeye know, that spinach is not only healthy, but it is also a nice food ingredient that can hydrate you as well. Spinach has high water content, and is a great ingredient to add when you are making some sandwiches, or garnishing some pasta. Spinach also gives you vitamins like vitamin E, potassium, and lutein, which makes it a great healthy option as well.

Salads

If you are looking for a light meal or snack that would be both healthy and refreshing, why not make a nice vegetable and fruit salad? Salads offer you a great amount of nutrition, thanks to the variety of food present. You can mix and match different fruits and vegetables, and see which combination of flavors taste the best. For added flavor and crunch, you can put some delicious salad dressing and some croutons for more variety.

Yogurt

If you want a sweet and creamy dessert that you can add some fruits, a cup of yogurt is the way to go. Plain yogurt contains around 85-88% water, while also containing some calcium and B vitamins. Yogurt is best served with fruits like berries, which give it some extra flavor and variety. This is also another healthy snack option apart from salads.

Shakes

Can’t choose just one fruit or veggie from this list? Making a shake out of the fruits and vegetables on this list is a viable option too. The best part about shakes is that the person making the shake is in control of how much vitamins and minerals that he wants to consume in one sitting. Shakes are filling and light on the stomach as well as possessing the necessary kick to keep active people hydrated. There are many fruits and vegetable combinations to choose from, and you can even add milk to make it extra creamy.

Key Takeaway

There are many more fruits and vegetables that are good for staying hydrated under the summer sun. Coconuts are a good example of superfoods that not only fill but also hydrate. Having fun under the sun is great but it would be wise to keep in mind the importance of staying hydrated.

Interested in having a wide variety of food, both healthy and delicious for your event? Give Juan Carlo’s famous catering a try!

10 Warning Signs of a Bridezilla

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Getting married soon? As a bride-to-be, it is inevitable that you want your wedding day to be perfect, or close to perfect as it can be. You’ve set up wedding catering in Manila for the reception (because we know that food is important for the guests), haved asked your friends as the bridesmaids, and reserved the church of your dreams as the venue where you will exchange vows with your significant other.

bridezilla not zen

It’s stressful, yes, especially when there are obstacles in your way while you’re planning. Stress combined with control issues, overwhelming emotions, and temper tantrums can turn almost any bride into a bridezilla, which can lead to complications. Here are 10 signs that say you have crossed the bridezilla territory:

1.      You are going way over your allotted wedding budget.

2.      You give a one-hour long monologue each time someone asks “How are the wedding plans going?”

3.      The tiniest difference in details can send you over the edge.

4.      Your conversations with other people turn into a shouting match especially when they suggest something that contradicts with your ideas.

5.      You fired one of the bridesmaids because she is pregnant and her large tummy will ‘ruin’ the pictures on your wedding day.

 

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6.      You begin to go on a crash diet and the gym is your new best friend.

7.      You don’t have time for anyone or anything else, even your work.

8.      You stick too much to your vision to the point that you don’t even bother pretending to care about practicality and the sake of others.

9.      Your wedding planner, caterer, bridesmaids, the cake designer and basically everyone who is helping you with your wedding are not answering your calls and e-mails anymore.

10. You are starting to neglect your fiancé.

Of course, not every bride becomes like this. However, if some of these signs hit too close to home, take a step (make it steps, if it’s worse) back and breathe. Lay off the pre-nuptial preparations for a moment then assess your attitude recently. Go for a nice, long walk so you can calm your inner monster down, because that monster only has the right to appear at most only once a month and absolutely not on your wedding day. Weddings may only last a few hours but that event will live on in photos, in your memories, and on your new life as the wife of your beloved.

wedding gif

If you feel like you have entered bridezilla mode already, ask someone like your mother or your sister or even your fiancé. Their honest opinions will make you realize if you may have gone too far with things already. When the day of the wedding comes, avoid imagining how’s everything is going to be and embrace the possibility that some things may not go according to plan. Besides, you already planned and prepared to the best of your abilities so it’s up to the others to carry out the rest. What’s important is your and your betrothed’s friends and family have gathered together to celebrate a very special day. Be remembered as the beautiful, radiant bride on that day, and not as bridezilla.

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11 Ways to Enjoy Potatoes

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What are the best potato dishes that can easily be made at home?

  1. Boiled Potatoes
  2. Cream of Potato Soup
  3. Potato Salad
  4. Baked Potato
  5. Potato Chips
  6. Hashed Browns
  7. Potato Skins
  8. Potato Au Gratin
  9. Hasselback Potatoes
  10. Mashed Potatoes
  11. French Fries

When it comes to food and versatility, many people will agree that the potato is one of the most flexible foods that can be prepared in almost any shape or form. The potato is so versatile that it can be served in casual gatherings as well as elegant events such as a wedding catering in the Philippines.

As stated above, there are a lot of ways to prepare potatoes for consumption and in this article, we are going to be covering the most common ways to enjoy potatoes.

Boiled Potatoes

Boiled potatoes are good for people who are having trouble with chewing. The most common way to enjoy boiled potatoes is by sprinkling some salt over them and then slicing them to manageable pieces. Mashed potatoes are also prepared by boiling them but that will come later.

Cream of Potato Soup

Because of its milk or cream base, cream of potato soup is a type of soup that is a flavorful and hearty. Though it may be bland on its own, adding a variety of ingredients to it will quickly solve this problem. That is the case for many potato soup recipes. Often, the dish has added celery, onions, and corn. Sometimes, even bacon and chicken broth are added to enhance the flavors further. Despite these, the distinct potato flavor will still always shine through and provide a filling feeling to any one that has a bowl of it.

Potato Salad

Potato salad is a filling snack that is usually served pre-main course. It is served usually with vinegar, mustard, parsley, chive and cheese and it serves as a means to prepare the palate for the main course.

Baked Potato

Baked potato is the epitome of snacking, at least second-best when compared to French fries. It is filling and tasty and it there are a dozen ways to prepare a baked potato. People will usually top their baked potatoes with whatever topping that suits their tastes; the most common toppings include cheese, butter, bacon and sour cream.

Potato Chips

While the baked potato and the French fries are the best snacks on this list, potato chips are considered a third runner up. However, it is only because it is usually manufactured in a factory, lacking the homely appeal that comes with preparing the potato at home. Not to mention it is more unhealthy, yet still so delicious. Potato chips come in many shapes, sizes and flavor and people will generally have their own brand preference.

Hashed Browns

Hashed browns are the potato equivalent of breakfast. They are usually creamy in texture and is prepared with salt and pepper. Some people prefer to add their own twist to the classic breakfast meal by sprinkling in some flavored powder or even grated cheese. Hashed browns are best served warm with a side of sausages or ham.

Potato Skins

Potato skins are among the most sinful ways to prepare potatoes. They are crispy on the outside but tremendously soft on the inside – especially when it is filled with bacon bits and lots of melted cheese. Some people would even prepare their potato skins with literally just the potato skin but filled with lots of meaty and cheesy toppings.

Potato Au Gratin

Gratin is a well-known technique in the culinary industry. Basically, it’s when you top off an ingredient with a browned crust. Most of the time this is done with breadcrumbs, grated cheese, egg and/or butter. No matter the curst, it is cooked or baked in an either an overhead grill or broiler.  This turns it into a golden, brown crust.

The most common ingredient to use gratin on is potatoes. Slices of boiled potatoes are places on a butter dish (this must be fire proof). Then the top crust is formed with cheese then baked or cooked with the mention technique above.

Hasselback Potatoes

While it may be considered a side dish, it is one of the most impressive potato dishes out there. Having this is like a dream come true for all potato lovers. It’s like a combination of French fries and mashed potatoes; it has crispy edgy that house a creamy middle. The best part is it is really just a baked potato in disguise. Because of this they take just as much time and effort to prepare. Not bad for a side dish that is served in many high-tier restaurants.

Mashed Potatoes

The classic holiday (and sometimes, even breakfast) meal. Mashed potatoes are usually prepared by boiling the potatoes after skinning them and then mashing them with a spoon or a masher. It is usually prepared with some light seasoning, butter, cream and cheese. Mashed potatoes are usually consumed as a substitute to rice in some Asian countries or as filler when served with holiday food such as stuffed turkey or holiday ham.

Mashed potatoes may also be served as a breakfast meal as they contain lots of essential nutrients and minerals that are required to give the average person the energy boost that they need in the morning.

French Fries

While technically not really French, French Fries are the most commonly consumed form of potato in the world. It can be prepared any number of ways and topped with any toppings people can think of. People usually top their French fries with melted cheese, ground beef and some cream, akin to a serving of Nachos with cheese.

French fries is quite possibly the most common junk food eaten in the world today and while it is a delectable snack, some restraint is of course recommended when snacking on French fries.

Key Takeaway

While there are a probably a dozen more methods to enjoy preparing and eating Potatoes, the ones listed here are among the most common. Additionally, these are very easy to prepare at home. From simple snacks to classy side dishes, you can enjoy potatoes in any way you want right in the comfort of your home.

potato juan carlo 2

Hail to the Chef – Former Presidents’ Favorite Foods

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juan carlo president food

Food is one of the best parts of life and everyone, regardless of race or culture, will have their own favorite food. From wedding catering cakes to meat stew, people are bound to have one specific food that they particularly fond of and certainly, former (and current) American Presidents are no exception.

North America is a large land mass split into cities and states. Each area has their own traditions and specialties and these proud American sons brought with them to the White House their respective families’ special meals.

A person’s preference for food may actually say more about their character than one would expect. Politicians, especially Presidents are complex characters. While they are subject to scrutiny due to their massive public presence, insight into their minds is actually a privilege that only a few, if ever, will truly appreciate.

So without further ado, here are a few United States Presidents along with their favorite foods.

George Washington

Known as the first recognized President of the United States, President George Washington was a career soldier as well as a prolific plantation owner. He enjoyed many aristocratic hobbies such as hunting and attending balls but at the end of the day, George Washington was someone who enjoyed simple meals such as mashed potatoes and cherry pies.

George Washington was also fond of muttons which are also known as adult sheep meat. He enjoyed eating them as steaks paired with red wine. The former president strictly adhered to a somewhat simplistic life at home while presenting himself with dignity knowing that his every action was subject to scrutiny and could very well set a precedent in the following years to come.

Thomas Jefferson

The third president of the United States as well as the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson is what some people would refer to as a renaissance man. He is a gifted writer, a respected correspondent, a well-versed conversationalist learned in Latin, Greek, French, Italian and Spanish.

While having the reputation of a “light eater”, Thomas Jefferson developed a taste for the finer things in life. He preferred French Cuisine especially cream-based desserts but as a true-born Virginian man, he never did forget his roots. The founding father was especially fond of figs and Virginian Ham to the degree that while living in France, he would import produces native to Virginia just to satisfy his gourmet palette.

Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln was born and raised in a simple household. He was a simple man with simple hobbies and interests; this is reflected in the fact that his favorite snacks from childhood to presidency were his mother’s gingerbread cookies. He especially valued his treats because he was known to be doted upon by his mother and enjoyment of these cookies became a sentimental act rather than a gourmet one in his later life.

Theodore Roosevelt

Another career military man, Theodore Roosevelt is a man of many talents. He was a politician, author, naturalist, explorer and soldier. Generally portrayed as an adventurous and brave man, Theodore Roosevelt’s favorite meal is fried chicken. He especially liked showering his favorite meal with white gravy sauce.

Franklin D. Roosevelt

Theodore Roosevelt’s cousin, Franklin was an American statesman and political leader. He attained his law degree from Columbia Law School. During his third term of office, the eruption of World War II plunged the world into darkness and one of the few things that lifted him up when he needed it most was his favorite meal, Hotdogs. He was a true American man and he enjoyed what people consider American meals, such as hotdogs and donuts.

Barack Obama

President Barack Obama, the incumbent President of the United States is a well-known family man outside the world of politics. He deeply values his family and this is demonstrated in his prideful love of the “Obama Family’s Famous Chili Recipe” that he proudly proclaims can “clear [your] sinuses” if prepared correctly.

It is true that these politicians handle pressure beyond the scope of what normal people can even imagine but at the end of the day, these past and present presidents are people too. As is clearly shown in their love of food!

Refined Tastes – All About Cheese

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cheese juan carlo 2

Sophistication comes in many shapes and sizes, and one of its forms is the art of eating. One noticeable thing about Catering in Manila is that, unless specifically instructed not to, cheese will definitely make its way into the menu.

Brief History of Cheese

Cheese is a by-product of milk; in the past, farmers would usually consume cheese in favor of meat. During that period of time, cheese was considered a “farmer’s meal” so aristocrats and nobles looked down on its consumption. Widespread consumption of cheese in the past started during the peak of the Roman Empire when the army started to conquer ancient Europe and its neighbors.

Farmers and peasants would eventually migrate to Rome bringing with them their own cheese making recipes and this formed the crux of the beginning of what some gourmands would jokingly refer to as the “cheese revolution”.

While the consumption of cheese was widespread in ancient Europe, its consumption was practically unknown in most parts of Asia, then considered the biggest Empire on the planet. Some historians would argue that the production of cheese was a late bloomer in Asia because of the humidity.

It wasn’t until the establishment of the unified Eastern trade route that the Silk Road, an ancient network of Chinese trade routes joined in and started a free trade with the western countries that Cheese and other western products were made available in the Asian market for public consumption.

Cheese as a Food

Considered a super food by some nutritionists, cheese is a nutritious food that contains nutrients like Vitamin B12, Vitamin A, phosphorous, protein, calcium and zinc. The high quality of the nutrients found in cheese delivers to the human body indispensable building blocks for stronger and healthier muscles.

Cheese is also a source of “healthy” cholesterol and while that’s a good thing, calories are still a factor so moderation in cheese consumption is highly recommended.

According to the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, it is recommended for people aged 9 above consume at least 3 servings of yogurt, cheese or milk every day. A serving of cheese is equivalent to one and a half ounces of hard cheese, one third cup of grated cheese and two ounces for processed Cheese.

 

cheese juan carlo

Difference between Processed Cheese and ‘Real’ Cheese

‘Real’ cheeses are made with traditional recipes dating back to the Middle Ages, some even go beyond that scope. Some recipes are so important that they are actually protected by laws and regulations, especially in some European countries such as England, France and Italy.

Processed cheese, on the other hand, is usually made using cheaper materials and the entire process is mostly automated, lacking the human touch that makes cheese such as Camembert and Brie delicious and memorable.

Naturally made cheese is also considered healthier compared to processed cheese. While processed cheese conforms to various international regulations, it is still made with chemicals that make it a tad less healthier than natural cheese.

A major difference between processed cheese and ‘real’ cheese is their price. While natural cheese is more delicious and healthier, it is also more expensive due to its brand name, labor and materials used in its creation. However, the price is more than worth it and while there are many variety of cheeses available in the market, one thing is for sure, each and every one of them is a superior and unique experience as compared to consuming market ready processed cheese.

Cheese is Versatile

One of the many benefits of cheese is that it is a very versatile kind of food. It is primarily used as an ingredient in many dishes throughout the world. It can also be eaten by itself as finger food and it can also be paired with wine, breads or biscuits. There are many ways to eat cheese and there are no right ways and there are no wrong ways. Each and every cheese consumed is an experience enjoyed.

Interested in enjoying cheese and its many ways of consumption? Give Juan Carlo’s catering a try.

Coffee: Revitalizer or Bone destructor?

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Photo by Nolan Issac

Photo by Nolan Issac

What are the pros and cons of drinking coffee regularly?

  1. Pro: It decreases the risk of type-2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease.
  2. Pro: It increases productivity and antioxidant levels.
  3. Con: It’s highly addictive with sever withdrawal symptoms.
  4. Con: The usual condiments in coffee lead to weight gain.
  5. Con: It increases cholesterol levels and risk of dehydration and osteoporosis.

What keeps majority of employees buzzing like busy bees? The answer is fairly obvious – coffee. It is the most basic pick-me-up for people in the workforce and even students. Whether it be at the pantry or at an event with corporate catering, coffee is the one beverage that people are sure to look for.

How Popular is Coffee?

Coffee, as we all know by now, is a caffeinated beverage that is, essentially, an energy booster. People enjoy drinking because it gives them the energy they need to get motivated at the start of a day. At the same time, it’s soothing and relaxing, which makes it a great drink for afternoon bonding with a friend. People enjoy chilled, piping hot, or what have you. Truly, it has become a staple in everyday life.

According to ScienceDirect.com, at least 85% of the population of the United States of America consume one glass of caffeine a day. (Mitchell, Knight, Hockenberry, Teplansky, & Hartman, 2013). Based on this, a huge number of people drink coffee United States alone. Bet you didn’t know that! It makes you wonder what the statistic is worldwide.

Based on the above statistics, a lot of people drink coffee in the United States alone. The question now is this: how good, or bad, is coffee for you?

The Good

Reduced Risk of Diabetes

According to the journal of the American Medical Association, people who consume more than 3 servings of coffee daily decreases their risk of type-2 diabetes by a significantly (van Dam & Hu, 2005). In fact, this risk is shown to reduce by 7% with every cup of coffee added daily.  Research also shows that people’s preferences with coffee, whether caffeinated or not, did not affect the chances of decreasing their risk of type-2 diabetes.

Reduced Parkinson’s Risk

Another benefit of drinking two to three cups of coffee daily is added protection from Parkinson’s disease. Such daily consumption of coffee can decrease the risk of the said disease by as much as 25%.

An Effective Antioxidant

Another positive aspect of coffee is that it is scientifically proven to be an effective antioxidant, kind of like tea. Coffee beans contain a significant amount of phytochemicals which are proven be effective antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances or elements similar to vitamin E or vitamin C that eliminates potentially damaging oxidizing agents in a biological organism.

Reduced Alzheimer’s Risk

Although it has yet to be identified, there is a mystery ingredient in coffee that is currently being studied. The current research shows that this ingredient X, when combined with coffee, can increase G-CFS levels. For those that don’t know, G-CFS means Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor. When this has high levels in the human body, it gains an increased ability to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. This relation between ingredient X and G-FCS has, so far, been tested with positive results on laboratory mice. In humans, so far, G-FCS level can be seen rising when one consumes four to five cups of coffee daily.

Increased Productivity

Research has also shown that people who drink coffee in the morning manage to retain more information as well as learn new concepts faster throughout the day, as opposed to those who do not. In other words, coffee allows its drinkers to improve their cognitive functions in terms of working memory and continuous attention.

Photo by Cathryn Lavery

Photo by Cathryn Lavery

The Bad

Increased Cholesterol Levels

Unfiltered coffee, such as espressos and lattes, have been shown to increase cholesterol levels. Luckily, filtered coffee doesn’t do this. This is because when you use a filter for brewing your coffee, you only you remove two substances the increase cholesterol: kahweol and cafestol. Thus, doing so is healthier for you.

However, some evidence points toward decaffeinated coffee as another cause for rising cholesterol levels. More research needs to be conducted when

Weight Gain

Coffee itself isn’t associated with weight gain, but the usual condiments added to it are. These usual suspects are sugar, milk, and cream, which make any coffee drink delicious. If you are looking to lose weight, but still have coffee in your diet, then you should either significantly lessen these condiments or not use them at all (e.g. black coffee). This is strongly recommended for those who have weight loss diets that their life depends on.

Addiction

Caffeine is highly addictive, especially when consumed every day. When one has coffee daily and stops this routine all of a sudden, he can experience severe withdrawals. These can be any of the following:

  1. Fatigue
  2. Irritability
  3. Headaches
  4. Jitters
  5. Insomnia
  6. Mood swings

Decaffeinated coffee drinkers aren’t safe from this as well. Even if their coffee of choice only has small amounts of caffeine, they can still get addicted to it.

A big factor as to why it is so addictive is because it triggers the brains to release large amounts of dopamine. This is an organic chemical that makes people feel pleasure and it causes the “buzz” that coffee drinkers always crave for.

Increased Osteoporosis Risk

Coffee, however, has also been proven to increase the risk of osteoporosis and osteoporotic fracture. This is due to the fact that it causes the human body to excrete calcium along with waste while urinating. The loss of calcium in the body can lead to the bones deteriorating to the point of developing osteoporosis.

Dehydration

In addition, coffee has also been proven to dehydrate people who regularly drink it, leading to wrinkles and other dermatological imperfections. Therefore, coffee drinkers are advised to drink a glass of water per cup of coffee that they consume at any given time to compensate.

Key Takeaway

All in all, those who regularly drink coffee may keep doing so if you take into account the cons. Like all good things, coffee must be taken in moderation and coupled with plain water, and to consume non-dairy food that are high in calcium. This is the best way to ensure that you can reap the benefits without putting yourself at too much risk for the disadvantages.