Yes, there can be absolutely no doubt that it is summer! The line of demarcation for the seasons on St. Croix is not a visual one, but a physical one. Your body recognizes the intensity of the summer sun before your eyes start to understand that the lush landscape is now drying. Then the thirst sets in, and all you physically crave are ways to beat the heat and cool down. This is one of my favorite summer time “Cool Down” treats. Read More
Growing up on St. Croix, Saturdays meant three things: clean up the house; afternoon family trips to the beach (Dorche was my favorite); and Banana Fritters and Fried Fish! It was a light (for Crucian taste) and simple meal that my parents could assemble quickly to conquer our sea-fueled hunger, and we could devour even faster. Read More
This is a version of my favorite Aunt Katie’s cake. She never actually used semolina in her version of this simple plain cake, but it was the only addition I knew to get that same corny texture that reminded me so much of her actual cake. It was usually served practically right out of the oven warm. Its buttery lightness and a super tender crumb, were held precariously in place by a craggy exterior texture.
The fragrant headiness of the nutmeg competed for a while with the vanilla and almond extracts that flavor this cake. This is simply my favorite cake. Basic, down-to-earth, and stirring, just like the lovely human spirit who created and shared it with me as a child.
