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!

Deck the halls with eco-chic: Creating festive decorations from nature and upcycled materials

Deck the halls with eco-chic: Creating festive decorations from nature and upcycled materials

The holiday season is a time for joy, laughter and festive cheer. However, the environmental impact of traditional Christmas decorations can be a bit of a bah-humbug. Fortunately, it’s possible to create a magical winter wonderland without sacrificing our planet’s well-being. Here’s a guide to creating your own eco-friendly Christmas decorations using foraged and recycled materials.

Foraging for festive foliage

Mother Nature’s pantry is brimming with festive greenery that can transform your home into a winter wonderland. Stroll through parks, woodlands or your own backyard to gather materials to get you started on creating festive decorations:

  • Pine cones: These natural wonders add a cosy, rustic touch to any arrangement.
  • Evergreen branches: Clip cuttings from pine, fir or spruce trees to create garlands, wreaths and swags.
  • Holly and ivy: With their vibrant berries and lush foliage, these plants bring a festive touch to your home décor.

Upcycling holiday treasures

Instead of buying new decorations, upcycle items you already have or find at charity shops and boot sales. Here are a few ideas:

  • Old magazines: Cut out festive images and glue them onto cardboard or paper plates to create ornaments.
  • Wine corks: Paint them green and red to resemble Christmas trees, or use them as embellishments for garlands.
  • Empty aluminium tins: Wearing protective gloves and using a pair of strong scissors, cut them into snowflakes or other festive shapes for a twinkly, metallic display.

Creating your eco-friendly masterpieces

With your foraged and recycled materials in hand, it’s time to get creative! Here are some inspiration-sparking ideas:

  • Nature-inspired garland: String pine cones, evergreen branches and holly berries onto jute twine or ribbon for a festive garland that fills the air with a woodsy scent.
  • Upcycled ornament collage: Glue magazine clippings, wine corks and other upcycled materials onto a piece of cardboard to create a unique and personalised ornament.
  • Salt dough ornaments: Mix flour, salt and water to create a dough that can be pressed into cookie cutters or shaped into ornaments. Decorate them with natural embellishments like dried flowers or cinnamon sticks.
  • Recycled paper Christmas trees: Cut green paper into triangular shapes and glue them onto a cardboard cone. Decorate with buttons, sequins or other upcycled items.

Sustainable and festive

Creating festive decorations is a meaningful and rewarding activity that brings the Christmas spirit into your home while minimising the impact on the environment. By foraging for natural materials and upcycling everyday items, you can spread holiday cheer without leaving a trail of waste behind.

So, this year, embrace the power of eco-chic and create a Christmas that’s both merry and mindful. Let your imagination soar and enjoy the festive joy that comes from knowing you’ve decorated your home with love, nature and a touch of upcycling magic!

On our radar: Santa’s Greatest Secret

Santa's Greatest Secret, Lyndon Jeremiah

A friend of mine sent me this video today, it’s so wonderful! Santa’s Greatest Secret was written (and narrated here) by Lyndon Jeremiah with illustrations created by Jennie Harmer.

We may be floating around in Crimbo Limbo right now, but please keep the book in mind as a present for the younger kids next Christmas.