Desserts And Good Food

    Traditionally made for Christmas, we enjoy this flavorful rice whenever we have an excuse. This rice is typically made with sofrito, the most important ingredient in the Puerto Rican Kitchen. Since having left my country many years ago I always look for ways to bring Puerto Rican flavor to my table. If you are not able to find the ingredients for sofrito you can still enjoy this flavorful rice. The ingredients for the sofrito in this version are very easy to find at your local supermarket. Ingredients: 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 pound pork meat, large cubes For the sofrito: 1/2 cup onion, small dice 1 red bell pepper, small dice 1/4 cup green pepper, small dice 1/4 cup celery, small dice 1/4 cup carrots, small dice 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped   1 large clove of garlic, minced 1-12 oz. can unsalted tomato sauce 1/3 cup green olives 1-16 ounces can pigeon peas, drain    2 cups long grain rice 3 1/2 cups low sodium chicken brot...

 The inspiration for this this lovely and refreshing ice cream comes from Puerto Rico's traditional drink for Christmas called Coquito. Rich, smooth and creamy this delightful ice cream is a perfect match for summer hot weather.                                                          Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream 4 egg yolks 2 tablespoon granulated sugar pinch of salt 1 cinnamon stick 1 can condensed milk 1 can coconut milk 2 teaspoon vanilla extract pinch of nutmeg  1 tablespoon coconut rum(optional) In a small saucepan mix the egg yolks with the sugar. Add the heavy cream, the cinnamon stick, a pinch of salt then mix until combined.  Heat the mixture over simmering water stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or until it thickens enough to coat a back of the spoon (nape).  Remove from the heat and c...