Things To Do-water-ice-drinks-spices

[drloca]

Originally Posted by Chirimoya

I wouldn't recommend Sazón. It is used by many DR cooks but is very synthetic. The actual herbs and spices used in Dominican cuisine are preferable.
The more typical are probably:
Oregano - dried leaf AND ground - very unusual flavour, used to season beef, goat dishes.
Bija/achiote/annato - natural red colouring used in coconut-based dishes
Agrio de naranja - a bitter orange vinegar used as a condiment
Thyme, cilantro (fresh), aniseed, cinnamon and allspice are also popular for both sweet and savoury dishes.

Here's a nice, illustrated guide to Dominican spices in English:
The Dominican cook spice rack - Dominican Cooking

As well as mamajuana there are drinks like guavaberry and coconut and coffee liquers, and a whole range of natural fruit drinks like champola and morir soñando - check the desserts and beverages section in the Dominican Cooking site - although be aware that Dominicans tend to add far more sugar than our timid foreign palates are used to dealing with.

I agree with the excess use of sugar...and salt...for that matter. I always have to dilute the fruit juices to better suit my palate.

[Rocky]

Originally Posted by missingstthomas

Rocky - someone mentioned your name. I read about Marie losing her home to a fire. I will be in the DR next month - and I have a TON of good girls clothing - sizes 8, 10 and 12. Can you help me reach this family do that I can donate the clothes to them? I would rather give them to a family that needs them! Thanks so much...

That is such a wonderful offer and I thank you very much.
Unfortunately, Punta Cana is an entire day's drive from here, so I can only suggest that you make a new thread about your intent and hope that some of our members in that area can steer you to some deserving families in need.
Warmest regards, Marco.

[Chirimoya]

Originally Posted by drloca

I agree with the excess use of sugar...and salt...for that matter. I always have to dilute the fruit juices to better suit my palate.

Me too. Luckily, in tourist areas Dominicans are used to the fact that foreigners prefer their juice with less sugar.

The excess salty taste is due to too much salt combined with the use of commercial flavourings and stock cubes.

[drloca]

Originally Posted by Chirimoya

Me too. Luckily, in tourist areas Dominicans are used to the fact that foreigners prefer their juice with less sugar.

The excess salty taste is due to too much salt combined with the use of commercial flavourings and stock cubes.

Hardly a surprise how many people in the DR have high blood pressure and diabetes I have noticed. ( although I am sure worldwide the numbers are increasing as so many people have such poor eating habits).