By Chef Ed Dychauco
Pots and Pans
THE last time I organized a culinary show was Let's Cake It....With Mrs. Avelina Florendo & Ed! two years ago to a very active and participating audience. It's been a while.
I've been busy with many out of town culinary demonstrations, judging, doing consultancies, speaking engagements (both culinary and nursing side) that have brought me all over the Philippines. So this time, I decided to do another one and came out with Culinary Fusion with Chef Ed (Part 4) last August 2, 2008 at the Grand Caprice Restaurant & Convention Centre at the LimKetKai Complex.
Actually, I have established two types of shows, LET'S CAKE IT...., being a baking and cake decorating event while CULINARY FUSION is more of the cooking endeavor. These two shows were launched way back in 2001 when Pots & Pans Home Bake & Coffee Shop celebrated its 25th anniversary. And since then, I have brought in Philippine's distinguished & famous culinary artists like Ms. Penk Ching, Ms. Dorothy Ferreria, Chef Dennis Hipolito, Ms. Heny Sison & Mrs. Avelina Florendo to Cagayan de Oro to showcase their extra-ordinary talents in cooking, baking and cake decorating.
We started late because of the long line outside the venue. Was I surprised to see a lot of people joining the affair! Excited and eager participants, friends, customers, teachers and students, aspiring culinary artists and what-have-you were patient enough to wait and were seen exchanging pleasantries and making new friends. A lot of new faces emerged as I welcome everyone at the start of the show. Modesty aside, the venue was jampacked to the max and I was so overwhelmed with the response of everyone present!
For this, I started the cooking workshop with a very simple yet delicious creamy squash/pumpkin cream corn soup. Next, came the upgraded Kevin's sardines with mushroom pasta, nutritious pasta Pomodoro with Pine ham, healthy Emerald rice, nourishing baked bihon with nuts, authentic Spanish chicken with rice, the hearty beef casserole with fruits and nuts and the favorite chili con carne.
A short appreciation of coffee showcasing latte art was brought out by Mr. Rey Sumania of Jamaican F & B Training Center using World-Class Rancilio coffee machine and Torani syrups.
A song number was also presented by the dashing and good-looking Mr. Stephen Elumba who sings at Zax Music Lounge to the delight of the audience during a short break.
A little baking came in next with the rich bread dough mixture of milk rolls or Fantans. Desserts included cornmeal pancakes and cornmeal muffins using Marca Leon's Polenta (actually a very first for the product since they have not really formally launched the Polenta yet), the favorite nutty glutinous ball, but this time, I used ube halaya instead of the usual taro or mongo filling. Pre-baked goodies were also presented like the 32nd Anniversary chocolate cake, baked corn puto, fruited chocolate muffins, and many more. A total of almost 30 easy-to-prepare but sumptuous recipes were given to the motivated & thrilled participants during the registration process.
Everyone, I guess, got to try most of the dishes and baked items that were prepared. Most of the participants also got to bring home a thing or two, as a sign of my appreciation for their enthusiastic presence, like Cook magazines, cake toppers, recipe cards, etc. But most of all, I could surely say, they brought with them a lot of unforgettable memories and new learning techniques & terminologies that will surely help them in their daily life, household kitchens, classrooms and jobs.
There were "question and answer" portions. Anyone who gets to give the right answer was given a prize! Certificates of participation were distributed to everyone right after the show.
Before I forget, I would like to thank a lot of people who helped me in one way or the other for making this grand event a success! Radio spots (Papa Ardie of Campus Radio), distribution of posters and ticket selling (Mr. Andy Eligan Jr.), actual preparations of the ingredients (Mr. Rommel Surposa & Mr. EJ Naliponguit), ran errands for me (Pots & Pans staff), assisted me during the live event (Mr. Samuel Velez & Mr. Roel Adino), live video coverage (Mr. Allan Alejandrino & his assistant of MVP & Mr. Atoy Martinez), digital photography (Ms. Grace), Grand Caprice Restaurant (Ms. Sheila Ching), newspaper ads (Ms. Liezel Deloso of Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro) and of course, my mom, wife and daughters for their unending and unwavering support.
Many thanks also to the following wonderful sponsors for helping out: Peotraco Food Ingredients, Kevin Enterprises, Revive Trading, Marca Leon, King Dnarmsa Coffee, Jamaican F & B Training Center, Valmarce Food Ingredients, Darling Food Corporation, PineFoods-TGO, DCTech Internet Connection, Petronas, Ink All You Can, Laundry Stop, Mama's Choice Meatshop, New Pag-Asa Pawnshop, Nutcracker Peanuts, Rainsoft, Tropics Best Cashew, Sentro 1850 and Party Mascot for the beautiful balloon decor.
Pots & Pans Home Bake & Coffee Shop continues to offer individualized or group culinary classes at its new location, Apolinar Velez St. corner Hayes St. and can be reached at telephone numbers: (08822) 724-674 or (088) 858-4209. Email at potsnpans1976@yahoo.com and website: www.potsnpans1976.multiply.com
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/cag/2008/08/21/life/dychauco.culinary.fusion.with.chef.ed.(part.4).html
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Dissecting the Man of Himologan 2008
By Chef Ed Dychauco
Pots and Pans
A VERY first in the City of Golden Friendship in this year's list of activities is the search for the Man of Himologan 2008 (a.k.a. Mr. Cagayan de Oro City 2008).
Anchored on social responsiveness and personality development, this competition aims to bring together confident, intelligent, socially motivated and talented young men from all over Cagayan de Oro City in the search for a youth icon that would serve as the role model for Cagayan de Oro's youth sector.
A group of 15 young fine, good-looking men were introduced to the public recently through a press conference last Monday (August 4, 2008) at Brewberry Cafe along Velez and Chavez Sts., this city. Several press people from all media were around to cover the event, which started around 4 p.m. with a short prayer followed by a brief history of the name Himologan (Huluga Cave).
Himologan, being the original settling place of the first settlers in Cagayan de Oro, is featured to make the new generation be aware of its glorious past and contribute to its improvement. Needless to say, I got to learn something new again about our city's history!
These gorgeous and magnificent male species epitomizes and personifies the young male generation of our time. With ages ranging from 18 to 25, most of them are college students and stand 5'7" to 6'1" tall! When asked why they joined this competition, most of them said they want to help contribute changes in the society, in their own little way. Some of them wanted to develop their self-confidence, some expect to have doors open for them for a better future and of course, promote tourism in the city. Others just wanted to have fun, be an inspiration, and leave a legacy to the future generations.
Problems they have seen affecting the society today include poverty, ignorance, poor or no education, hunger, pre-marital sex, drug addiction and pollution. And the candidates wowed the press with their charming and witty answers of course.
The 15 stunning candidates include: Niel Enteria (18 years old, 6'0"), Gringgo Bayang (19 years old, 6'1"), Patrick Jose Chua (20 years old, 5'11"), Jonard Suan (21 years old, 5'91/2"), John Paolo Galolo (20 years old, 5'8"), Ben Arian Tan (18 years old, 5'71/2"), Reynaldo de la Cruz (18 years old, 5'7"), Ralph Rafael Navarro (18 years old, 5'7"), Richard Vacalares (20 years old, 5'8"), Abdul Sadat Saripada (21 years old, 5'10"), Marlone Nagac (22 years old, 5'101/2"), Nyl Popera (19 years old, 5'101/2"), Jay Buot (23 years old, 5'9"), Jeymar Aparici (25 years old, 5'9") and Michael John Amper (21 years old, 6'1").
Organized by Metro K Events headed by Eric Abaday and accredited by Promote CDO as part of the calendar of activities for the city fiesta, this year's search for a young Kagay-anon man should embody the ideal traits of the Cagayan de Oro Man, a modern man of Himologan: God-fearing yet courageous, wise yet with a heart for others, and self-disciplined yet fun-loving and friendly.
In connection with Metro K's advocacies and The Man of Himologan's objective, all the finalists will undergo training for capacity building, environmental education, reproductive health awareness, tourism, culture and heritage immersion, media buildup and exposures, thus opening up opportunities for them to fully utilize their leadership potentials not only for their own development and welfare but also for the benefit of the other youth groups in the city, most especially the young male group.
Calendar of activities will include the following: Fun Wear Competition on August 13 at the Ghana, The Site, Rosario Arcade, LKKS at 8pm, Monologue Competition on August 15, Feeding Program and Health Talks and the Boy's Town Foundation in Lumbia, Fashion Competition on August 20 at the Gaisano Mall, Pre-Pageant Competition and Sponsor's Night on August 21, Motorcade around the city on August 23 and finally, the Pageant Night on August 24 and the Rodelsa Hall, Liceo de Cagayan University at 7 p.m.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/cag/2008/08/12/life/dissecting.the.man.of.himologan.2008.html
Pots and Pans
A VERY first in the City of Golden Friendship in this year's list of activities is the search for the Man of Himologan 2008 (a.k.a. Mr. Cagayan de Oro City 2008).
Anchored on social responsiveness and personality development, this competition aims to bring together confident, intelligent, socially motivated and talented young men from all over Cagayan de Oro City in the search for a youth icon that would serve as the role model for Cagayan de Oro's youth sector.
A group of 15 young fine, good-looking men were introduced to the public recently through a press conference last Monday (August 4, 2008) at Brewberry Cafe along Velez and Chavez Sts., this city. Several press people from all media were around to cover the event, which started around 4 p.m. with a short prayer followed by a brief history of the name Himologan (Huluga Cave).
Himologan, being the original settling place of the first settlers in Cagayan de Oro, is featured to make the new generation be aware of its glorious past and contribute to its improvement. Needless to say, I got to learn something new again about our city's history!
These gorgeous and magnificent male species epitomizes and personifies the young male generation of our time. With ages ranging from 18 to 25, most of them are college students and stand 5'7" to 6'1" tall! When asked why they joined this competition, most of them said they want to help contribute changes in the society, in their own little way. Some of them wanted to develop their self-confidence, some expect to have doors open for them for a better future and of course, promote tourism in the city. Others just wanted to have fun, be an inspiration, and leave a legacy to the future generations.
Problems they have seen affecting the society today include poverty, ignorance, poor or no education, hunger, pre-marital sex, drug addiction and pollution. And the candidates wowed the press with their charming and witty answers of course.
The 15 stunning candidates include: Niel Enteria (18 years old, 6'0"), Gringgo Bayang (19 years old, 6'1"), Patrick Jose Chua (20 years old, 5'11"), Jonard Suan (21 years old, 5'91/2"), John Paolo Galolo (20 years old, 5'8"), Ben Arian Tan (18 years old, 5'71/2"), Reynaldo de la Cruz (18 years old, 5'7"), Ralph Rafael Navarro (18 years old, 5'7"), Richard Vacalares (20 years old, 5'8"), Abdul Sadat Saripada (21 years old, 5'10"), Marlone Nagac (22 years old, 5'101/2"), Nyl Popera (19 years old, 5'101/2"), Jay Buot (23 years old, 5'9"), Jeymar Aparici (25 years old, 5'9") and Michael John Amper (21 years old, 6'1").
Organized by Metro K Events headed by Eric Abaday and accredited by Promote CDO as part of the calendar of activities for the city fiesta, this year's search for a young Kagay-anon man should embody the ideal traits of the Cagayan de Oro Man, a modern man of Himologan: God-fearing yet courageous, wise yet with a heart for others, and self-disciplined yet fun-loving and friendly.
In connection with Metro K's advocacies and The Man of Himologan's objective, all the finalists will undergo training for capacity building, environmental education, reproductive health awareness, tourism, culture and heritage immersion, media buildup and exposures, thus opening up opportunities for them to fully utilize their leadership potentials not only for their own development and welfare but also for the benefit of the other youth groups in the city, most especially the young male group.
Calendar of activities will include the following: Fun Wear Competition on August 13 at the Ghana, The Site, Rosario Arcade, LKKS at 8pm, Monologue Competition on August 15, Feeding Program and Health Talks and the Boy's Town Foundation in Lumbia, Fashion Competition on August 20 at the Gaisano Mall, Pre-Pageant Competition and Sponsor's Night on August 21, Motorcade around the city on August 23 and finally, the Pageant Night on August 24 and the Rodelsa Hall, Liceo de Cagayan University at 7 p.m.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/cag/2008/08/12/life/dissecting.the.man.of.himologan.2008.html
Big Rocks Diner: Lava Rocks-Grilled Burger At Its Best!
By Chef Ed Dychauco
Pots and Pans
MY RECENT pursuit for some new food joints brought me to Xavier Square, Upper Carmen. A well-kept secret to me and many others I would presume because after my initial visit to the place, I kept on talking about "The Rock" but not everybody seem to have heard about it yet... until now!
Situated at the back of Right Stop Mini Mart, this new diner is owned and co-managed by two young entrepreneurs, Robert Allen Punzalan and Mark Anthony Cruz, both from Metro Manila. First thing that came into my mind was to ask how these two good-looking gentlemen came to Cagayan de Oro and decided to put up a business here in the city.
Robert is a graduate of BS in Management of Financial Institution and Masters in Information Technology from DLSU. He had several years of excellent experience in leasing and banking institutions. Even while as a kid, Robert has been engaged in "buy and sell" business. While assigned as Vismin's manager for corporate account with Toyota financials, he met and befriended Mark in Davao.
With an AB Economics diploma from Ateneo de Cagayan (Xavier University), Mark worked with Chinatrust Bank in Davao City when he met Robert. And as they say, the rest is history.
Business is what drew both of them together. Both are certified foodies. Robert grew up in a family where food always takes center stage and having been there, knew food really by heart! And Mark, having spent his high school years in San Francisco area, grew up to love and appreciate food away from home!
Both resigned from their respective lucrative jobs and started this joint food venture last April 11, 2008. I was surprised and astonished when I got inside "The Big Rock", mainly because of its atmosphere and setting. To me, it is a place where one can appreciate and delight in the food without being stressed, and a place where one can take time and spend it leisurely without the hustle and bustle of the city.
Several fascinating and captivating personal belongings are decorated on the walls with a few from close friends. There is a little makeshift stage where one can play the acoustics and sing or just relax. There are several tables and benches that are reminiscent of an authentic diner from the 50s and 60s. A collection of memorabilia and souvenirs can be seen in one corner where I noticed three signed plates from their recent VIP guests: Senator Chiz Escudero, who had his press con there when he came a few weeks ago, Christian Bautista and the Gasulina Band. There is also a VIP room that can accommodate 24 people comfortably where they can enjoy playing Nintendo Wii or Play Station, watch a movie or sing to their hearts' content with their videoke machine or just hang out.
But what about the food? What makes their food a cut above the rest? Well, personally I was able to try their lava rocks-grilled burger on my first visit (on the house!). My verdict? It was delectable and mouth-watering! The almost two pounds of tender, juicy quality 100 percent ground beef, smoked bar-b-que flavor sauce with lots of sliced button mushrooms and several strips of bacons in a soft bun was just truly amazing! Plus a mouthful of French fries that is crunchy on the outside yet so soft on the inside! Just scrumptious! Truly delightful! A meal by itself!
And that is just a sampler. Because they have nine international flavors to choose from! As a start, they are offering Italian, Japanese, English and Arabian flavors where eventually, they will be serving the rest like American, Mexican, Korean, Brazilian and Filipino burgers. And these, I have to try very soon! These wonderful and yummy burgers come in three pleasing sizes: Riders (as snacks) at P29.00, Cruizer (hungry) and Sports (very hungry!) at P259! Other appetizing cuisine includes: flame-grilled sausages (Frankfurters, Bratwurst, Hungarian), pastas, exotic juices (durian, orange, strawberry, etc.), very rich signature milkshakes (Oreo, M&Ms, Hershey's, etc.) and many more at very affordable prices.
The Big Rock Diner can accommodate about 70 people at one time and is open for private parties or functions. So, the secret is out now! Come and visit them for their tempting and irresistible food while spending quality time with your friends, family or loved ones, or call 088-3090882 for orders or reservations.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/cag/2008/06/21/life/big.rocks.diner.lava.rocks.grilled.burger.at.its.best!.html
Pots and Pans
MY RECENT pursuit for some new food joints brought me to Xavier Square, Upper Carmen. A well-kept secret to me and many others I would presume because after my initial visit to the place, I kept on talking about "The Rock" but not everybody seem to have heard about it yet... until now!
Situated at the back of Right Stop Mini Mart, this new diner is owned and co-managed by two young entrepreneurs, Robert Allen Punzalan and Mark Anthony Cruz, both from Metro Manila. First thing that came into my mind was to ask how these two good-looking gentlemen came to Cagayan de Oro and decided to put up a business here in the city.
Robert is a graduate of BS in Management of Financial Institution and Masters in Information Technology from DLSU. He had several years of excellent experience in leasing and banking institutions. Even while as a kid, Robert has been engaged in "buy and sell" business. While assigned as Vismin's manager for corporate account with Toyota financials, he met and befriended Mark in Davao.
With an AB Economics diploma from Ateneo de Cagayan (Xavier University), Mark worked with Chinatrust Bank in Davao City when he met Robert. And as they say, the rest is history.
Business is what drew both of them together. Both are certified foodies. Robert grew up in a family where food always takes center stage and having been there, knew food really by heart! And Mark, having spent his high school years in San Francisco area, grew up to love and appreciate food away from home!
Both resigned from their respective lucrative jobs and started this joint food venture last April 11, 2008. I was surprised and astonished when I got inside "The Big Rock", mainly because of its atmosphere and setting. To me, it is a place where one can appreciate and delight in the food without being stressed, and a place where one can take time and spend it leisurely without the hustle and bustle of the city.
Several fascinating and captivating personal belongings are decorated on the walls with a few from close friends. There is a little makeshift stage where one can play the acoustics and sing or just relax. There are several tables and benches that are reminiscent of an authentic diner from the 50s and 60s. A collection of memorabilia and souvenirs can be seen in one corner where I noticed three signed plates from their recent VIP guests: Senator Chiz Escudero, who had his press con there when he came a few weeks ago, Christian Bautista and the Gasulina Band. There is also a VIP room that can accommodate 24 people comfortably where they can enjoy playing Nintendo Wii or Play Station, watch a movie or sing to their hearts' content with their videoke machine or just hang out.
But what about the food? What makes their food a cut above the rest? Well, personally I was able to try their lava rocks-grilled burger on my first visit (on the house!). My verdict? It was delectable and mouth-watering! The almost two pounds of tender, juicy quality 100 percent ground beef, smoked bar-b-que flavor sauce with lots of sliced button mushrooms and several strips of bacons in a soft bun was just truly amazing! Plus a mouthful of French fries that is crunchy on the outside yet so soft on the inside! Just scrumptious! Truly delightful! A meal by itself!
And that is just a sampler. Because they have nine international flavors to choose from! As a start, they are offering Italian, Japanese, English and Arabian flavors where eventually, they will be serving the rest like American, Mexican, Korean, Brazilian and Filipino burgers. And these, I have to try very soon! These wonderful and yummy burgers come in three pleasing sizes: Riders (as snacks) at P29.00, Cruizer (hungry) and Sports (very hungry!) at P259! Other appetizing cuisine includes: flame-grilled sausages (Frankfurters, Bratwurst, Hungarian), pastas, exotic juices (durian, orange, strawberry, etc.), very rich signature milkshakes (Oreo, M&Ms, Hershey's, etc.) and many more at very affordable prices.
The Big Rock Diner can accommodate about 70 people at one time and is open for private parties or functions. So, the secret is out now! Come and visit them for their tempting and irresistible food while spending quality time with your friends, family or loved ones, or call 088-3090882 for orders or reservations.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/cag/2008/06/21/life/big.rocks.diner.lava.rocks.grilled.burger.at.its.best!.html
Saturday, September 12, 2009
World Food Exposition (Wofex) 2008
AN ANNUAL event organized by Premier Events Plus Group (PEP Group) Inc., Wofex 2008 (8th International Exposition on Worldwide Food & Beverage, Technologies and Machineries), was held at the World Trade Centre from August 6 to 9, 2008.
Having joined and done several culinary demonstrations on food expositions all over the Philippines the past several years, this was a first for me because I presented not just one but two exciting shows during the first 2 days of the exhibit.
I was invited by PSG Home Products Distribution Corporation to do basic chocolate molding using CK Products on the first day using Dutche Chocolates.
PSG has been a distributor of various bakeware products in the Philippines for the past 10 years. ONEIDA is one of them and quality CK Products from the USA another.
Having done a similar demo during last year's Mindanao Culinary Festival in Davao City, I found out that several new products have been added to their repertoire of quality products recently.
The presence of Ms. Jocelyn, Ms. Beth, & Mr. Mike made my experience with them more unforgettable! They were truly one of a kind!
The chocolates from Dutche were delicious, many thanks to Mr. Ricki of Valmarce Foods.
Marca Leon Oil (of Limketkai & Sons, Inc), c/o Ms. Tina, also invited me to do a four-hour cooking and baking demonstration at the main stage again the following day.
It was again a wonderful experience showcasing Marca Leon's quality corn and vegetable oil, shortening, margarine, vinegar, soy sauce and polenta, their newest "baby"!
Having just done Culinary Fusion with Chef Ed (Part 4) four days earlier at the Grand Caprice Restaurant and Convention Center in Cagayan de Oro City, it was easy for me to pull out recipes and do the same thing, but in a bigger venue!
Marca Leon being one of my passionate and devoted sponsors of the exhibit the past many years, I am so overwhelmed by their unending support for all my culinary activities.
Dishes and baked goodies prepared on the spot were tasted by the enthusiastic audience.
Several quality products from participating companies were also raffled off and these include Marca Leon, Mega Sardines & HoBe Bihon.
I would also personally thank Mr. Fermin of Uniforms@Work for the fantastic & marvelous chef's uniform and apron he gave me (!), Mr. Navin of Gurnamal & Sons together with Mr. Jason & his delightful friends for lending me their superior and excellent cookware, bakeware & plates, Mr. Nelson of Sweetlink for the incomparable Silicone Zone spatula, spoonula, chopping boards and bakeware, Mr. Mario & Mr. Winnie of Unicomm for their dark and aromatic cocoa powder, fantastic vivid whipping cream (their newest product!) and nuts, Mr. Tony of SinMag for the heavy duty mixer and cookware, Ms. Letty of New Hong Lee for the bakeware, the staff of Melawares for their colorful plates, PSG staff specially Mr. Mike and Chef Rodel for their invaluable assistance in the preparation of all the ingredients and materials used during my demo.
With such a short time, I was able to visit all the booths in the center but couldn't really admire all that was displayed because aside from being busy making new friends, I also exchanged pleasantries with a lot of old acquaintances who I haven't seen for ages! Mr. Eric and Ms. Cherry of Equilibrium Intertrade Corporation was so nice in offering me delicious blended coffee during the fair.
Ms. Nancy Lumen Reyes of Cook's Magazine was busy doing a hands-on workshop so we just waved at each other!
Mr. Richard and Mr. Roger of Enzima International gave me samples of their healthy green and brown rice teas to drink and to take home!
I engaged in small talks with Mr. Manito of Actron, Mr. Benson of Prestige Plastics, Ms. Tan of Penco, Chef Antolin of CCA, Ms. Tess and Betsy Dilla, Ms. Tina of Davao City and many others.
I also met a lot of Kagay-anons during the trade fair enjoying small talks with the exhibitors.
The main exhibit area was not even enough since they have an extension area for the other exhibitors. Foods, beverages, packaging materials, culinary schools, food machineries and manufacturers, name it...they were all under one roof for the past four days! It was virtually a heaven for food processors, manufacturers, foodies and what-have-you!
Food sampling was all over the trade fair! From hopia to breads, from noodles to chocolates, from teas to coffees...there was just so much to eat and drink! No wonder this event is always jam-packed to the max! If only I can take home all of these, then I would probably just not take lunch and dinner anymore for a day or two!
Several talks, seminars, demonstrations, workshops, and the like were held all day at the different venues. Chefs, cooks, bakers, students, housewives and husbands, traders were seen enjoying and appreciating almost everything! I also noticed a lot of HRM students accompanied by their instructors attending most of the seminars and demonstrations.
But since I have to fly back home on the third day of the exhibit, I sorely missed the exhibitor's night, which was a blast, according to some of my friends! So much fun and with so much food! Well, maybe next year I would be able to join them!
To the organizers from Premier Events Plus Groups Inc., congratulations for a job well done! Kudos! And see you next year for another for fun-filled & tummy-filled days!
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/cag/2008/08/14/life/world.food.exposition.(wofex).2008.html
Having joined and done several culinary demonstrations on food expositions all over the Philippines the past several years, this was a first for me because I presented not just one but two exciting shows during the first 2 days of the exhibit.
I was invited by PSG Home Products Distribution Corporation to do basic chocolate molding using CK Products on the first day using Dutche Chocolates.
PSG has been a distributor of various bakeware products in the Philippines for the past 10 years. ONEIDA is one of them and quality CK Products from the USA another.
Having done a similar demo during last year's Mindanao Culinary Festival in Davao City, I found out that several new products have been added to their repertoire of quality products recently.
The presence of Ms. Jocelyn, Ms. Beth, & Mr. Mike made my experience with them more unforgettable! They were truly one of a kind!
The chocolates from Dutche were delicious, many thanks to Mr. Ricki of Valmarce Foods.
Marca Leon Oil (of Limketkai & Sons, Inc), c/o Ms. Tina, also invited me to do a four-hour cooking and baking demonstration at the main stage again the following day.
It was again a wonderful experience showcasing Marca Leon's quality corn and vegetable oil, shortening, margarine, vinegar, soy sauce and polenta, their newest "baby"!
Having just done Culinary Fusion with Chef Ed (Part 4) four days earlier at the Grand Caprice Restaurant and Convention Center in Cagayan de Oro City, it was easy for me to pull out recipes and do the same thing, but in a bigger venue!
Marca Leon being one of my passionate and devoted sponsors of the exhibit the past many years, I am so overwhelmed by their unending support for all my culinary activities.
Dishes and baked goodies prepared on the spot were tasted by the enthusiastic audience.
Several quality products from participating companies were also raffled off and these include Marca Leon, Mega Sardines & HoBe Bihon.
I would also personally thank Mr. Fermin of Uniforms@Work for the fantastic & marvelous chef's uniform and apron he gave me (!), Mr. Navin of Gurnamal & Sons together with Mr. Jason & his delightful friends for lending me their superior and excellent cookware, bakeware & plates, Mr. Nelson of Sweetlink for the incomparable Silicone Zone spatula, spoonula, chopping boards and bakeware, Mr. Mario & Mr. Winnie of Unicomm for their dark and aromatic cocoa powder, fantastic vivid whipping cream (their newest product!) and nuts, Mr. Tony of SinMag for the heavy duty mixer and cookware, Ms. Letty of New Hong Lee for the bakeware, the staff of Melawares for their colorful plates, PSG staff specially Mr. Mike and Chef Rodel for their invaluable assistance in the preparation of all the ingredients and materials used during my demo.
With such a short time, I was able to visit all the booths in the center but couldn't really admire all that was displayed because aside from being busy making new friends, I also exchanged pleasantries with a lot of old acquaintances who I haven't seen for ages! Mr. Eric and Ms. Cherry of Equilibrium Intertrade Corporation was so nice in offering me delicious blended coffee during the fair.
Ms. Nancy Lumen Reyes of Cook's Magazine was busy doing a hands-on workshop so we just waved at each other!
Mr. Richard and Mr. Roger of Enzima International gave me samples of their healthy green and brown rice teas to drink and to take home!
I engaged in small talks with Mr. Manito of Actron, Mr. Benson of Prestige Plastics, Ms. Tan of Penco, Chef Antolin of CCA, Ms. Tess and Betsy Dilla, Ms. Tina of Davao City and many others.
I also met a lot of Kagay-anons during the trade fair enjoying small talks with the exhibitors.
The main exhibit area was not even enough since they have an extension area for the other exhibitors. Foods, beverages, packaging materials, culinary schools, food machineries and manufacturers, name it...they were all under one roof for the past four days! It was virtually a heaven for food processors, manufacturers, foodies and what-have-you!
Food sampling was all over the trade fair! From hopia to breads, from noodles to chocolates, from teas to coffees...there was just so much to eat and drink! No wonder this event is always jam-packed to the max! If only I can take home all of these, then I would probably just not take lunch and dinner anymore for a day or two!
Several talks, seminars, demonstrations, workshops, and the like were held all day at the different venues. Chefs, cooks, bakers, students, housewives and husbands, traders were seen enjoying and appreciating almost everything! I also noticed a lot of HRM students accompanied by their instructors attending most of the seminars and demonstrations.
But since I have to fly back home on the third day of the exhibit, I sorely missed the exhibitor's night, which was a blast, according to some of my friends! So much fun and with so much food! Well, maybe next year I would be able to join them!
To the organizers from Premier Events Plus Groups Inc., congratulations for a job well done! Kudos! And see you next year for another for fun-filled & tummy-filled days!
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/cag/2008/08/14/life/world.food.exposition.(wofex).2008.html
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Aroma Cafe
By Chef Ed Dychauco
Pots and Pans
WE HAVE come to an age where cafes are emerging in almost all corners of the city, be it Internet cafes (did you ever wonder why they are called "cafes" in the first place?), or the real cafes in the genuine sense of the word.
Guess we are now in a world where time is so precious, that we don't even have time to prepare our own meals or drinks that we just have to buy them elsewhere. Besides, don't store-bought foods and beverages always seem to taste better than the ones we prepare at home?
Well, there is a place where we can now enjoy, a place where we can spend time leisurely, minus the hustle and bustle of the city noise and pollution. A cozy place for people who just wanted to spend quality time and have good food and drinks altogether. A place we call Aroma Cafe at Cagayan de Oro City. It is owned and operated by Michelle Pizarro-Jose, who is originally from Manila but has numerous relatives here in Cagayan de Oro City.
A stunning and gorgeous-looking lady who doesn't look her age, Mitch, as she is fondly called, is married to John-John Jose, also of Manila and has two lovely kids.
Aroma Cafe started operation way back in April of 2007 with four employees serving superior and excellent coffee (hot, cold and blended), smoothies and teas. Using only the freshest imported coffee beans (60 percent Arabica and 40 percent Robusta), one can be assured of superb drinks that are sure to make you go back for more.
Sellable products include their very own aromatic brewed coffee, cappuccino, cafe latte, blended caramel frappe and their version of mango, strawberry and banana smoothies.
What is coffee without food? Aroma Cafe serves not only drinks but also tasty and mouth-watering foods like chili con carne, pasta puttanesca, spaghetti Bolognese, fettuccine Alfredo, pasta with three Mushrooms in cream sauce and tuna pasta. For sandwiches, they serve grilled meaty sandwich, grilled tuna, grilled cheese and of course, the all-time favourite Clubhouse Sandwich using whole wheat bread and only the freshest ingredients available. For the health conscious, don't worry, because they only use olive oil in all their cooking!
Since they open at 7:30 a.m., one can also delight in their breakfast offerings like Hungarian-Potato Meal, complete with a sunny side-up egg, toasted Wheat bread, a slice of fresh fruit and a delightful cup of brewed coffee! They also have waffles and other regular breakfast items to choose from.
Most of their customers are from nearby neighboring subdivisions, business offices and students, although they also get a lot customers coming from downtown area and from people who are on their way to the airport to catch their plane.
As one enters the friendly and appealing cafe, one can notice the soothing Bossa Nova music playing, with the fragrant smell of coffee. A fine-looking tiny "working" motorcycle hanging on one of the walls and several fine paintings as decors complete the ambiance! There are also several magazines for those who enjoy reading the good stuffs in life.
It can seat about 40 people inside and more outside for those who enjoy al fresco, breathing the fresh uptown air. They are also open for meetings and the like. Several artists have visited the place and these include Martin Nievera, Dennis Padilla, well-known politicians and who's who in the city.
So, what are you waiting for? Come, enjoy, chill, relax and unwind at one of the newest and "in" places in the uptown area, Aroma Cafe.
Aroma Cafe is open from 7:30 a.m. till 12 midnight and is located at the ground floor of Stonestown Building (besides Xavier Square), Upper Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City and can be reached at (088) 859-2348.
Pots and Pans
WE HAVE come to an age where cafes are emerging in almost all corners of the city, be it Internet cafes (did you ever wonder why they are called "cafes" in the first place?), or the real cafes in the genuine sense of the word.
Guess we are now in a world where time is so precious, that we don't even have time to prepare our own meals or drinks that we just have to buy them elsewhere. Besides, don't store-bought foods and beverages always seem to taste better than the ones we prepare at home?
Well, there is a place where we can now enjoy, a place where we can spend time leisurely, minus the hustle and bustle of the city noise and pollution. A cozy place for people who just wanted to spend quality time and have good food and drinks altogether. A place we call Aroma Cafe at Cagayan de Oro City. It is owned and operated by Michelle Pizarro-Jose, who is originally from Manila but has numerous relatives here in Cagayan de Oro City.
A stunning and gorgeous-looking lady who doesn't look her age, Mitch, as she is fondly called, is married to John-John Jose, also of Manila and has two lovely kids.
Aroma Cafe started operation way back in April of 2007 with four employees serving superior and excellent coffee (hot, cold and blended), smoothies and teas. Using only the freshest imported coffee beans (60 percent Arabica and 40 percent Robusta), one can be assured of superb drinks that are sure to make you go back for more.
Sellable products include their very own aromatic brewed coffee, cappuccino, cafe latte, blended caramel frappe and their version of mango, strawberry and banana smoothies.
What is coffee without food? Aroma Cafe serves not only drinks but also tasty and mouth-watering foods like chili con carne, pasta puttanesca, spaghetti Bolognese, fettuccine Alfredo, pasta with three Mushrooms in cream sauce and tuna pasta. For sandwiches, they serve grilled meaty sandwich, grilled tuna, grilled cheese and of course, the all-time favourite Clubhouse Sandwich using whole wheat bread and only the freshest ingredients available. For the health conscious, don't worry, because they only use olive oil in all their cooking!
Since they open at 7:30 a.m., one can also delight in their breakfast offerings like Hungarian-Potato Meal, complete with a sunny side-up egg, toasted Wheat bread, a slice of fresh fruit and a delightful cup of brewed coffee! They also have waffles and other regular breakfast items to choose from.
Most of their customers are from nearby neighboring subdivisions, business offices and students, although they also get a lot customers coming from downtown area and from people who are on their way to the airport to catch their plane.
As one enters the friendly and appealing cafe, one can notice the soothing Bossa Nova music playing, with the fragrant smell of coffee. A fine-looking tiny "working" motorcycle hanging on one of the walls and several fine paintings as decors complete the ambiance! There are also several magazines for those who enjoy reading the good stuffs in life.
It can seat about 40 people inside and more outside for those who enjoy al fresco, breathing the fresh uptown air. They are also open for meetings and the like. Several artists have visited the place and these include Martin Nievera, Dennis Padilla, well-known politicians and who's who in the city.
So, what are you waiting for? Come, enjoy, chill, relax and unwind at one of the newest and "in" places in the uptown area, Aroma Cafe.
Aroma Cafe is open from 7:30 a.m. till 12 midnight and is located at the ground floor of Stonestown Building (besides Xavier Square), Upper Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City and can be reached at (088) 859-2348.
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