Putting together a Trinidad care package this Christmas

Putting together a Trinidad care package this Christmas

Christmas is a really important and memorable occasion in Trinidad & Tobago. There are so many annual customs and rituals; painting the house, parang, going house to house for a drink…

As that festive season approaches, the spirit of giving blossoms into full swing. For many, Christmas is a time for family gatherings, joyful celebrations and sharing love and appreciation. However, for loved ones who are far away from home, the holidays can sometimes feel a bit lonely. One thoughtful way to bridge the geographical gap is by putting together a Trinidad care package that embodies the warmth and tradition of the twin island republic.

Soft drinks

Or, as they’re called in Trinidad & Tobago, swee’ drinks. Some, like sorrel, are specifically drunk at Christmas. Others simply give a sweet taste of back home.

Bag of sorrel

Sorrel: This ruby red drink is made from the calyces of the Hibiscus sabdariffa. A thirst-quenching, spiced beverage best poured over lots of ice… with or without added Christmas spirit – see rum below.

Bottles of Matouk's mauby

Mauby: I have a lifelong aversion to mauby. The one and only time I have ever drunk it is indelibly etched on my taste buds and in my memory. That doesn’t mean that I should omit it from my Christmas round-up though – lots of other people love it… you may too. Mauby is made from tree bark and looks a bit like cinnamon – I find the taste indescribable – like nothing else upon this earth!

Bottles of Peardrax sparkling pear drink

Peardrax & Cydrax: One of those drinks that was considered a treat when I was growing up. Special occasions such as birthday parties and Christmas meals would see a tall, slender amber bottle of fizzy Peardrax and/or Cydrax on the table.

Alcoholic drinks

Once again, some of these alcoholic drinks are imbibed all year round. Ponche de crème is considered a Christmas drink, much like Bailey’s is here in the UK.

Carib and Stag lager beers

Carib and Stag lager beers: In T&T, you’re either a Stag or a Carib drinker. Think HP or Daddie’s sauce fan… you get the idea!

Bottle of Fernandez Vat 19 rum

Rum: Depending on the depth of your pockets, you could buy your loved one a bottle of Angostura 3-year-old White Reserva, 5-year-old dark or invest in an ever so slightly dearer bottle of 1997 Caroni 23-year-old Single & Single.

Home made Trinidad ponche de crème

Ponche de crème: Due to its raw egg content, ‘punch-a-crema’ doesn’t travel terribly well, so it’s probably best to rustle up a batch of your own. I’ve had numerous compliments on the mixture I’ve made using this recipe.

Food

Home made Trinidad black cake

Black cake: The quintessential Christmas foodstuff; rich, dark, unctuous. This must be made months, if not a year, in advance for it to be just right. Everyone has their own recipe and secret ingredients – the one ingredient that isn’t secret is lashings of rum… see above.

Pastelles

Pastelles: Another must-eat item at Christmastime. Spiced, ground meat (and these days, meat substitute) enveloped in a cornmeal blanket, wrapped in banana leaf (or tin foil) and tied up with string – to borrow from a classic film – this is one of my favourite things!

Clear plastic box of tamarind balls

Tamarind balls: Or, as it’s pronounced, ‘tambran’ balls are small rounds of tamarind paste and flecks of chilli flakes rolled in Demerara sugar. One of those everyday treats that could be bought from every school tuck shop and ‘parlour shop, either in little plastic bags of 4 or 6, or singly in a little piece of brown paper. One of those things that expat Trinbagonians crave after being away from the islands for any length of time.

Preserved sweet and salted prunes

Salted prunes: Like the aforementioned tambran balls, ‘salt’ prunes and ‘sweet an’ salt’ preserved prunes are pined for by Trinis living ‘in foreign’. The unnaturally red-coloured, latter version are my favourite and have what can be described as an umami taste – they make your mouth water just thinking about them.

Bag of preserved red mango

Red mango: As is the case with salt prunes, red mango’s abnormal colour never put me off eating bags of the stuff. It’s one of your 5-a-day, surely?

Bag of KC dinner mints

KC dinner mints: These are what my Dad turned to when he attempted (and finally succeeded) giving up smoking. They’re not restricted to just dinner time consumption. These little, dainty, hard, white candies are to be consumed at any time of day or night.

Bag of Chief curry powder

Chief curry powder: If you want to accurately reproduce the taste and aroma of a Trini curry, it can only be done by using this ubiquitous brand of curry powder. Rotis, potato, vegetable or meat curries… it has to be Chief.

Home made Caribbean pepper sauce

Pepper sauce: Matouk’s is the pepper sauce brand that I clearly remember from my childhood – my dad used it like other people use ketchup… it was on the table with almost every meal. Either that or a whole, fresh Scotch bonnet on the side of his plate! You could also choose Royal Castle, Berties, Mudda ‘N’ Law… or make your own!

Matouk's green seasoning

Green seasoning: The go-to, all-purpose seasoning for marinading meat & fish of all types – a bottle or jar of it can be found in every fridge, in every home in the land.

Tropical Sun guava cheese

Guava jam and cheese: Guava jam is for spreading on your bread. Guava cheese is the better option for putting on Crix (see below) with a piece of ‘mouse cheese’ – Fonterra cheddar cheese from New Zealand.

Crix crackers from Bermudez

Crix crackers: Known as the ‘vital supplies’, if you can only send one thing to your Trini friends & family abroad, make it these.

Presentation matters

When assembling your care package, presentation is key. Use festive-coloured boxes or baskets that reflect the holiday spirit. You can also decorate the package with ribbons, and perhaps even a little ornament or two, making it visually appealing.

Shipping tips

Sending a care package internationally can often involve unexpected delays. Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth delivery:

  • Plan ahead: Start gathering items early to allow ample time for packing and shipping.
  • Check customs regulations: Make sure that all items comply with customs regulations to avoid any issues during delivery.
  • Choose the right shipping method: Opt for a reliable service that provides tracking capabilities, so you can keep an eye on your package’s journey.

Conclusion

Creating a Trinidad care package is not just about sending products; it’s about sending love, memories and the spirit of togetherness. By including thoughtful items that celebrate Trini cuisine and culture, you can help your loved ones feel cherished and connected to home this Christmas. As you pack the culinary delights, remember that it’s the thought and care behind each item that truly makes it special, embodying the warmth, joy and tastes of the season.

Have we glaringly omitted anything that you think is a must-have for Trinbagonian expats? Let us know in the comments!

Price Points: Sweet sherries

Selection of sweet sherries | H is for Home

Christmas is all about family & friends, presents and of course food & drink. One of the beverages that makes an appearance at this time of year is sherry – sweet, medium and dry. The sweet, syrupy variety suits many seasonal foods like mince pies, chocolate, Christmas pudding and blue cheese. Like any wine, sweet sherries are available in all price ranges. Often, the older the vintage, the higher the price.

Since 2000, sherry has been categorised into 3 divisions. VORS is short for ‘Vinum Optimum Rare Signatum’ (or Very Old Rare Sherry) and indicates wine with an average age of over 30 years. VOS stands for ‘Vinum Optimum Signatum’ (or Very Old Sherry), with an average age of over 20 years. ‘Age indicated sherries’ fall into two categories: 12 years old and 15 years old.

Because of the sweetness of these sherries – they can contain 300 to 400 grams of sugar per litre – they’re best served slightly chilled in a small clipper or schooner glass – only tiny measures needed!

1. Wm Morrison Pedro Ximénez, 37.5cl: £6.00, Morrison’s
At 8 years old, this award-winning sweet sherry is the youngest of our selected trio. We bought a bottle and had some this week with my home-made spiced shortbread. We were so impressed that we’ve already gone out and bought another bottle! And it’s not just us – this is the verdict of a professional wine expert:

It’s almost black such is its sticky sweet richness and the taste is similar to an ocean of sultanas, prunes, dates and figs. Olly Smith

2. Fortnum’s Pedro Ximenez VOS, Bodegas Tradicion, half bottle: £29.95, Fortnum & Mason

Our Pedro Ximenez (PX) has been classified as V.O.S. (very old sherry), with more than 20 years of age. It is deepest mahogany, with wonderful aromas of raisins, prunes and figs. This outstandingly rich, viscous PX can be enjoyed with blue cheese or chocolate puddings and is also delicious poured over vanilla ice-cream. It should be served slightly chilled.

3. Toro Albalá Pedro Ximénez Convento Selección 1931, 75cl: £235.00, Laithwaites

This 86 year old sweet wine is a legend and winner of a near perfect 98 Parker points. Made from mostly sun dried grapes, pressed and partially fermented, it is a gloriously rich sherry with fig, chocolate, spice – the list of flavours is endless.

shop sweet sherries

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Prices & links correct at time of publication.

Toro Albalá Pedro Ximénez Convento Selección 1931, 75cl
Toro Albalá Pedro Ximénez Convento Selección 1931, 75cl
£235.00
Fortnum’s Pedro Ximenez VOS, Bodegas Tradicion, half bottle
Fortnum’s Pedro Ximenez VOS, Bodegas Tradicion, half bottle
£29.95
Wm Morrison Pedro Ximénez, 37.5cl
Wm Morrison Pedro Ximénez, 37.5cl
£6.00
Toro Albalá Pedro Ximénez Convento Selección 1931, 75cl
Toro Albalá Pedro Ximénez Convento Selección 1931, 75cl
£235.00
Fortnum’s Pedro Ximenez VOS, Bodegas Tradicion, half bottle
Fortnum’s Pedro Ximenez VOS, Bodegas Tradicion, half bottle
£29.95
Wm Morrison Pedro Ximénez, 37.5cl
Wm Morrison Pedro Ximénez, 37.5cl
£6.00
Toro Albalá Pedro Ximénez Convento Selección 1931, 75cl
Toro Albalá Pedro Ximénez Convento Selección 1931, 75cl
£235.00
Fortnum’s Pedro Ximenez VOS, Bodegas Tradicion, half bottle
Fortnum’s Pedro Ximenez VOS, Bodegas Tradicion, half bottle
£29.95
Wm Morrison Pedro Ximénez, 37.5cl
Wm Morrison Pedro Ximénez, 37.5cl
£6.00
Toro Albalá Pedro Ximénez Convento Selección 1931, 75cl
Toro Albalá Pedro Ximénez Convento Selección 1931, 75cl
£235.00
Fortnum’s Pedro Ximenez VOS, Bodegas Tradicion, half bottle
Fortnum’s Pedro Ximenez VOS, Bodegas Tradicion, half bottle
£29.95
Wm Morrison Pedro Ximénez, 37.5cl
Wm Morrison Pedro Ximénez, 37.5cl
£6.00
Toro Albalá Pedro Ximénez Convento Selección 1931, 75cl
Toro Albalá Pedro Ximénez Convento Selección 1931, 75cl
£235.00
Fortnum’s Pedro Ximenez VOS, Bodegas Tradicion, half bottle
Fortnum’s Pedro Ximenez VOS, Bodegas Tradicion, half bottle
£29.95
Wm Morrison Pedro Ximénez, 37.5cl
Wm Morrison Pedro Ximénez, 37.5cl
£6.00

Trinidad ponche de crème

Bottle of ponche de crème or punch a crema | H is for Home

Ponche de crème, sometimes called punch a crema, is an eggnog type drink – like the black cake I posted about recently – enjoyed in Trinidad & Tobago only at Christmas.

Removing the chalazae from the eggs using the jagged edge of an eggshell | H is for Home

It consists primarily of eggs, milk, rum and ground nutmeg. Although the eggs aren’t cooked, don’t worry about food poisoning, the rum content will put paid to any bugs. I would, however, recommend removing the chalazae (the white coily bits that hold the yolk in place) from the eggs. An easy way to do this is to use a jagged edge of broken egg shell.

Whisking evaporated milk into the ponche de crème | H is for Home

The proportions of ingredients used is personal preference – some prefer it sweeter, some milkier, others packing more of a punch. The generally accepted quantities are 8 eggs to 3 tins of evaporated milk to 1½ tins of condensed milk and 250ml/9 fl oz of rum. I’ve used dark rum, but it’s often made with super-strong puncheon rum.

Adding Caribbean dark rum to ponche de crème mixture | H is for Home

Once made, the ponche de crème should be kept in the fridge (in sterilised bottles). If you can, leave it for a few days before drinking – tipping the bottle up & down a few times during that time – so that the flavour can develop.

Grating nutmeg into the ponche de crème mixture | H is for Home

Serve over ice in a high ball glass – preferably whilst listening to some parang on your music system. It can keep for months in the fridge – but I promise you, it won’t last that long! If you fancy trying ponche de crème this Christmas, save the recipe to Pinterest.

Decanting ponche de crème into glass flip-top bottles | H is for Home

Ponche de crème, sometimes called punch a crema, is an eggnog type drink enjoyed in Trinidad & Tobago at Christmastime. #Christmas #alcohol #alcoholicbeverage #beverage #Christmas #Christmasdrink #ponchedecrème #punchacrema #recipe #rum #Trinidad #Trinidadcuisine

Here’s calypsonian, Lord Kitchener, singing a very famous song celebrating the festive libation.

 

Bottle of ponche de crème or punch a crema | H is for Home

Trinidad ponche de crème

Prep Time 15 minutes
Course Drinks
Cuisine Caribbean
Servings 16

Ingredients
  

  • 6 eggs chalazae removed (the white stringy bits)
  • zest of 1 lime peeled thickly
  • 600 g/21oz/1.5 cans condensed milk
  • 820 g /29oz/3 tins evaporated milk
  • 500 ml/17.5 fl oz rum
  • 1 tsp Angostura Bitters
  • 1 tsp ground/grated nutmeg

Instructions
 

  • In a large measuring jug (2.5 litre) or mixing bowl with a spout, whisk the eggs with the lime peel (using the peel cuts through the 'eggy' taste) until pale and aerated
  • Whilst still whisking, pour in the condensed milk
  • Continuing to whisk, pour in the evaporated milk
  • Stir in the rum and the bitters
  • Sprinkle ground/grated nutmeg and stir through
  • Remove the lime peel and decant the mixture into sterilised bottles and keep refrigerated (it will keep for months)
Serve over ice
Trinidad ponche de crème ingredients
Keyword alcohol, Christmas, ponche a crème, ponche de crème, punch a crema