Guest Author - Deborah Barocas
Puerto Rico’s Spanish influence has charmed its way into many ethnic communities. Indeed I have joined the band with great enthusiasm, and I am totally enthralled by the music, food, culture, and people. And as your Captain, I am happy to announce that we are landing in Puerto Rico. Let’s make this a grandiose experience.
If you’ve ever been to Puerto Rico, you may recall that once your aircraft has touched down, the excitement begins. It is quite possible that you may very well want to salsa your way off the plane and perch your carcass on a beach with a cocktail in hand. Don’t be lazy, make your trip count for something and put some spring in your step with Salsa. You don’t have to boogie off the plane to make a point, or do you? This sexy dance consists of an almost stiff upper body, with seductive movements of the hips, left hand of the female placed on the right shoulder of her partner, while her other hand is upheld with her partner’s hand. Just know, that there is some distance between their bodies, to allow for rotating and twisting, and enough room for the left foot to go forward, while the right foot does a half step, after which, the right is returned in a parallel position to the left, with yet another half step and then both feet doing a couple of quick back steps. This puts your coordination, and rythmn to the test. Now lets put the pedal to the metal and salsa to our hearts content.
All this dancing can make one hungry. Let’s start with an assortment of Tostonies, and Mofongo. Scallop Seviche is a must. Add a large serving of Cuban Roast Pork, or Skirt Steak seasoned with adobo, cumin and onions. If you prefer fish or shrimp, it can be seasoned and grilled with a lime and cilantro infusion. Paired with a Caribbean Green Salad or a side of fresh tropical fruit, and you’re good to go. To invoke more flavor, squirt some fresh lime on everything. Beverage of choice is a Mojito. Splendido! I don’t know how you like your Mojito, but I prefer mine in a tall skinny glass served with a side pitcher of extra Mojito for super fast refills. Might as well go it all the way if you’re going to make this trip with me. No slackers please.
If you are interested in making part of this a reality, my recipe for a Killer Mojito is in order, click on the link below
