Onigiris with Pinoy flavors from Samurice

If you’re a fan of Japanese food but got some #PinoyPride goin’ on for our local cuisine, then Samurice PH’s got something great in store for you!

This online food shop specializes in premium onigiris – Japanese rice balls stuffed with tasty ingredients.

Samurice PH
Samurice PH

With its newest offerings – dubbed Filipino Favorites – Samurice PH brings to us Pinoys flavors that are closer to home, the taste of classic Pinoy ulams encased in a tightly packed ball of another Pinoy staple, garlic rice.

Samurice PH
Samurice PH

Curious yet?

Indulge your craving for that Japanese and Pinoy combination with these onigiri variants.

Sisig with Garlic Rice. The famed Kapampangan viand finds a new iteration with this savory onigiri.

Samurice PH
Samurice PH

Spam Mayo with Garlic Rice. Kiddos will love this onigiri that allows them to enjoy their favorite spam beyond breakfast.

Samurice PH
Samurice PH

Adobo with Garlic Rice. The national dish broadens its horizons to include an onigiri iteration.

Samurice PH
Samurice PH

These classic Pinoy flavors are available in a Filipino onigiri set that includes two onigiris of each flavor for just Php599.

Samurice PH
Samurice PH

Enjoy these onigiris at home for a quick and easy lunch in between Zoom meetings or online classes. You may also pack one of these as your baon so you can have a handy snack anytime you get hungry, or include a set in your picnic basket so you and your companions can easily munch into a tasty meal while on the go.

Samurice PH
Samurice PH

Other Samurice onigiri sets available include:

  • Japanese (Php499): includes 2 Salmon Mayo, 2 Chicken Teriyaki and 2 Tuna Mayo onigiris; all made with imported Japanese rice and wrapped with soy nori
  • Korean (Php599): includes 2 Korean Spicy Pork Samgyupsal, 2 Beef Bulgogi and 2 Spicy Korean Chicken Galbi onigiris; all made with Gochujang-flavored rice and wrapped with soy nori
  • Spam Mayo (Php599): 6 onigiris made with Spam bits with a bit of mayo in garlic rice and wrapped with soy nori

Order your onigiri set today at Samurice PH’s online store. Payments via GCash and bank transfer via BancNet, Union Bank and BPI are accepted.

Disclosure: Product samples were provided to facilitate this feature article.

Power up your 2022 health and fitness goals with Quaker’s online bootcamp

New year means new health goals for many Filipinos, which sometimes range from observing a healthier diet, reaching a fitness target, or simply finding the right exercise for you. If you haven’t gotten to listing down what you want to commit this year, don’t worry as it’s never too late to start or continue what you’ve accomplished so far!

To kick off a healthier 2022, Quaker, the world’s No. 1 oatmeal brand, will be having its first ever Quaker Strong Bootcamp Challenge from January 31 to February 6, 2022. These sessions aim to help you go beyond your comfort zones and jumpstart your health and fitness goals.

Quaker 2022 Bootcamp
Quaker 2022 Bootcamp

Every day, Quaker Philippines will be hosting free classes via zoom with your favorite local fitness studios and instructors. Ride the beat with Ride Revolution on January 31, February 5 and February 6. Work up a sweat with TMS on February 2, Saddle Row on February 3 and Flyweight Boxing on February 4.

Quaker 2022 Bootcamp
Quaker 2022 Bootcamp

To join, register and sign up by February 5. Early class registrants will receive a Quaker Strong pack which includes nutritious snacks for you to munch on pre- or post-workout; while another 100 who first complete the Quaker Strong Bootcamp Bingo Challenge, get a chance to take home exclusive Quaker merchandise.

Quaker 2022 Bootcamp

Keep up your health and fitness goals by complementing your daily workouts with Quaker Oats! For over 140 years, Quaker has been filling homes with great-tasting oats which helps provide your body the right amount of nutrients you need to sustain your energy so you can be Quaker strong! Quaker oats contain up to 7x more fiber* to support digestion, 1.7x more protein* for muscle growth and maintenance of, and Beta-Glucan for heart health.

For more information, visit Quaker on Facebook.

Details and images provided by Quaker in a recent press release.

K-snack time with Nineteen Degrees

Those Youtube videos on Korean egg toasts are sure working on me!

These popular egg drop sandwiches have been making their presence felt in social media, thanks in large part to their highly Instagrammable presentation, and, of course, the buzz on how tasty they are!

My daughter (who’s so into K-culture) almost despaired of never getting to taste these bread snack creations, until we found out that they’re available at a shop in nearby Eastwood City in Libis called Nineteen Degrees.

Nineteen Degrees
Nineteen Degrees

Plus, there’s no need for us to leave the house and brave the outside world just to get a taste of egg drop sandwiches as Nineteen Degrees conveniently delivers via GrabFood!

So I immediately took out my phone and got to tapping on my Grab app, and soon, my daughter and I were enjoying our egg drop sandwiches and other snackables from Nineteen Degrees, which included:

K1 Egg and Cheese (Php120). Made with buttered and toasted brioche stuffed with fluffy scrambled egg, cheese, coleslaw and Signature Sauce.

Nineteen Degrees
Nineteen Degrees

K2 Ham and Cheese (Php120). Has the same ingredients as the K1 Egg and Cheese with the tasty addition of ham slices.

Nineteen Degrees
Nineteen Degrees

P3 Crabivating Corn (Php80). A handmade scallion pancake wrapped around crabmeat, corn kernels, caramelized onion and lettuce.

Nineteen Degrees
Nineteen Degrees

Drinks. We washed down our Korean-inspired snack with refreshing 700ml drinks from Nineteen Degrees.

Nineteen Degrees
T4 Four Seasons Tea (Php100)
Nineteen Degrees
M1 Boba Milk Tea (Php120)

We’re just so glad that we no longer have to stare enviously at the TV as Youtubers get to enjoy their Korean egg drop sandwiches!

Nineteen Degrees
Nineteen Degrees

You too can get to enjoy Nineteen Degrees’ snacks and drinks by dropping by its store at Eastwood Citywalk 2, Eastwood City, Libis, Quezon City, open dine in, takeout or delivery from 10am to 9pm. It also has sells its signature food through the Cloud Kitchen in Binondo, open for takeout or delivery from 11am to 9pm.

You may also order from GrabFood and FoodPanda or send a message on Facebook Messenger.

6 reasons to staycation at Bayview Park Hotel Manila

With the loosening of quarantine restrictions, we Metro Manila denizens are now able to venture out of our homes and explore more of the metro.

If sight-seeing in Manila is in your itinerary, why not eliminate the hassle of long drives and traffic jams by booking a staycation at Bayview Park Hotel?

Let me share with you six reasons why this would be a good idea.

1) You can situate yourself in its historic and happenin’ backdrop

Situated along Roxas Boulevard, the hotel is at the hub of the action, with rows of restaurants and scenic attractions only short distances away.

Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel

2) You can relax and unwind in comfort in one of its well-appointed rooms.

Whether for a short visit or a fairly long stay, Bayview Park Hotel’s rooms are furnished and stylishly designed to keep you happy and comfortable.

Its 30sqm Superior Room, for instance, comes with either a queen-size bed or two single beds and is equipped with airconditioning, cable TV, WiFi access, NDD/IDD telephone, 110/120V electric outlets, a safety deposit box for your important items and a coffee and tea maker.

Bottles of mineral water and daily newspapers are also provided.

Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel

The rooms also comes with full toilet and bath equipped with tub and shower (hot and cold water available), and provisioned with consumables such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, dental kit and tissue paper.

Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel

When you look out from your window, you can take in the view of the stretch of Roxas Boulevard, overlook the US Embassy and survey the expanse of the glittering Manila Bay.

Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel

3) Staying inside the hotel also affords you with opportunities for physical activity.

There’s no need to feel cooped up in your hotel room in between your sight-seeing adventures. Take a revitalizing dip in the hotel’s roof deck swimming pool, or workout some sweat in the fitness gym equipped with a treadmill, stationary bikes, a stair climber and strength training equipment.

Your little ones can also enjoy some fun play time in the Children’s Activity Center which is open on Saturdays and Sundays.

Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel

4) You can feast on great eats in the area!

Foodies will definitely get their fill of gustatory delights from restos easily accessible from the hotel.

Bayview Coffee Shop

The hotel’s cafe, located at the lobby, serves international cuisines as well as local favorites. It’s perfect for breakfast or quick snack breaks during your staycation.

Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel

It is open daily to serve hotel guests from 6am to 10pm.

Ilustrado Restaurant

For a taste of Filipino cuisine, carefully crafted with European influences, check out Ilustrado Restaurant.

Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel

It is located at 5440 General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila, open daily from 11.30am to 2.30pm and from 6pm to 9pm. For queries and reservations, call +63 2 5273674 or +63 939 9206822, or email catering@ilustradorestaurant.com.ph.

More information on Ilustrado Restaurant here.

Garden Dining by White Moon Bar

For Asian fusion dishes and a distinguished wine menu that you can enjoy al fresco, drop by Garden Dining by White Moon Bar.

Bayview Park Hotel
Garden Dining by White Moon Bar
Garden Dining by White Moon Bar
Garden Dining by White Moon Bar

It is located at The Barnyard, Manila Ocean Park, Luneta, Manila, open for outdoor dining Thursdays to Sundays from 11am to 8pm. For reservations and inquiries, call +63 2 85677777.

More info on Garden Dining by White Moon Bar here.

390 Degrees

For imaginative takes on Western dishes served in generous portions while in a luxurious setting, hop on over to 390 Degrees.

390 Degrees
390 Degrees
390 Degrees
390 Degrees

It is located at the Ground Floor, Sequioa Hotel Manila, Aseana City Business Park, Entertainment City, Paranaque, open daily from 10.30am to 8pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 82845110 or +63 921 2446502.

More info on 390 Degrees here.

5) There are so many exciting sights to see!

Manila is the site of many historic, cultural and entertainment attractions that can be easily visited from the hotel.

Rizal Park, for instance, houses the Rizal Monument (to commemorate the execution site of national hero Jose Rizal) as well as an Open-Air Auditorium, Independence Flagpole and the Central Musical and Dancing Fountain, along with the National Museum Complex which, in turn, houses the National Museum of Natural History and National Museum of Anthropology.

Bayview Park Hotel
Rizal Park
Bayview Park Hotel
National Museum of Natural History

Within its grounds, you will also find Manila Ocean Park, the country’s first world-class marine theme park and premiere educational entertainment destination.

Manila Ocean Park Reopening
Jellies Exhibit
Manila Ocean Park Reopening
Penguin Exhibit
Manila Ocean Park Reopening
Sea Lion Show
Manila Ocean Park Reopening
Oceanarium

More info on Manila Ocean Park here. Click here to book your tickets.

With just a short drive separating Bayview Park Hotel and Rizal Park, checking out these attractions is a breeze!

6) Enjoy an exciting deal when you book your staycation online!

Book your stay in Bayview Park Hotel’s Superior Room for just Php2,222/net. This promo will run until January 31, 2022 (with stay period until June 30, 2022, and is exclusively available at its website.

With this awesome deal, you can enjoy a comfortable stay in the hotel with great savings, plus all the interesting sights and delicious foodie adventures that the area has to offer.

Bayview Park Hotel
Bayview Park Hotel

Clearly, exploring the delights that Manila has to offer is even more enjoyable if you do so from #YourHomeByTheBay, Bayview Park Hotel.

Bayview Park Hotel Manila is a 3-star hotel located at 1118 Roxas Boulevard corner United Nations Avenue, Ermita, Manila. With a 75-year history as the preferred destination for both leisure and business travelers, it provides unparalleled service and exclusive privileges for its guests at affordable and friendly rates.

To know more about Bayview Park Hotel’s offers, visit its website or follow it on Facebook and Instagram. For bookings and reservations, contact the hotel via:

You may also book your stay via Klook.

Photo Credit: Photos of Rizal Park and National Museum of Natural History by Erykah Rose Raton on Unsplash

Pictures of the hotel were taken during my stay before the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Jelly List: Top dishes from Asian restos for your Chinese New Year Feast

Kung hei fat choy, foodies!

This year, Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, falls on the first of February.

We can expect a lot of get-togethers, wishes for happiness and prosperity, and of course, lots and lots of food to celebrate the occasion.

Chinese New Year Faves
Chinese New Year Faves

Luckily, we’ve got quite a plethora of delicious dishes for us to enjoy with family and friends, whether at our favorite Asian restaurants or at home right here in the metro as we welcome Chinese New Year. Some of my favorites are:

Modern Shanghai’s Birthday Noodles

Noodles are generally eaten on someone’s birthday as a way wishing them long life, so how about enjoying as a way of wishing each other a Happy New Year? Modern Shanghai’s Birthday Noodles include chopped meat, hard-boiled quail eggs and veggies tossed together in a wok to make a flavorful noodle dish.

Chinese New Year Faves
Chinese New Year Faves

Drop by Modern Shanghai branches at Trinoma Mall in Quezon City, Shangri-la Mall in Mandaluyong City, Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City, Evia Lifestyle Center or Vista Mall Global South in Las Pinas City, S’Maison Conrad in Pasay City or Alabang Town Center in Muntinlupa or order via the Bistro Delivers app.

More deets about Modern Shanghai here.

Yang Chow’s Yang Chow Fried Rice

Yang Chow Fried Rice is a staple in many a Chinese feast. And no wonder: pre-cooked rice stir-fried in a wok along with chopped char siu, scallions, veggies and scrambled egg make for a tasty companion to many Chinese dishes.

Chinese New Year Faves
Chinese New Year Faves

Enjoy this dish at Yang Chow Industria in Libis, Quezon City or order via GrabFood.

More deets about Yang Chow here.

Eat Fresh Famous Hongkong Street Food’s Salt and Pepper Spareribs

One of my favorite Chinese dishes, this is made with pork spare ribs seasoned with salt, chili peppers and five spice powder, then deep fried until the outside is crispy to complement the tender meat inside.

Chinese New Year Faves
Chinese New Year Faves

Enjoy it at Eat Fresh outlets along Jose Abad Santos Street in San Juan, Banawe Street and at The Popup in Katipunan in Quezon City, and along C. Raymundo Avenue in Pasig City. You may also order via GrabFood.

More deets on Eat Fresh here.

North Park’s Boneless Honey Lemon Chicken

This dish never fails to appeal to the entire family! From crispy and juicy pieces of battered and deep-fried chicken pieces to its tangy-sweet sauce, it is a welcome addition to any Chinese meal.

North Park via GrabFood Signatures
North Park via GrabFood Signatures

Enjoy it at North Park Noodle House branches in Muntinlupa (Alabang Town Center, SM Supercenter, Westgate), Quezon City (Banawe), Paranaque (Bicutan, Caltex Macapagal), Makati (Convergys, Glorietta 3, Osmena Highway, Salcedo Village, Makati Avenue, Paseo de Roces), Quezon City (Eton Centris, Fairview Terraces, Araneta, Cubao, Shell Mindanao Avenue, Tomas Morato), Mandaluyong (Greenfield), Taguig (FTI, Market! Market!), Pasay (Mall of Asia Annex), Pasig (Medical City), and Manila (Manila Ocean Park), San Juan (P. Guevarra). You may also order for delivery online or through its hotline +02 837373737.

More deets on North Park Noodle House here.

Wangfu Chinese Cafe’s Salted Egg Squid

This decadent viand made with breaded and deep-fried squid rings flavored with mashed salted egg yolks has become a family favorite!

Chinese New Year Faves
Chinese New Year Faves

Enjoy it at Wangfu’s branches in Ayala Malls Vertis North, Ayala Malls Cloverleaf, Eastwood City, Serendra, Tomas Morato, SM Fairview or SM Marikina. You may also order for delivery via GrabFood and FoodPanda.

Lido Cocina Tsina’s Shrimp Foo-Yong

This is an exciting discovery that I never tire of recommending to friends: a saucy egg dish with a healthy serving of plump shrimp folded in which is chock-full of flavor.

Chinese New Year Faves
Chinese New Year Faves

Discover it for yourself at Lido Cocina Tsina’s branches located in Quezon City (Banawe Toad, Commonwealth Avenue, E. Rodriguez Avenue, Mindanao Avenue and Visayas Avenue), Las Pinas (Alabang-Zapote Road), Makati (Chino Roces Avenue), Manila (UN Avenue), Paranaque (Dona Soledad Avenue, Dr. A. Santos Avenue) and Pasig (C. Raymundo Avenue). You may also order for delivery online or via GrabFood and FoodPanda.

More about Lido Cocina Tsina here.

Hainanese Delights’ Hainanese Chicken Rice

The dish is traditionally prepared by poaching a whole chicken at sub-boiling temperatures, with some of the resulting stock combined with ginger, garlic and other aromatics used to cook the accompanying rice, producing a yellowish, flavorful and oily rice. It is usually served with three dipping sauces: a spicy red chili sauce, a dark soy sauce, and freshly ground ginger.

Chinese New Year Faves
Chinese New Year Faves

Enjoy it Hainanese Delights outlets at Robinsons Place Ermita, Robinsons Galleria Ortigas, SM Fairview and Waltermart Munoz. You may also order for delivery via GrabFood and FoodPanda.

More on Hainanese Delights here.

Bistro Charlemagne’s Drunken Lengua in Mushroom Sauce

This spectacular dish made with tender pan-seared ox tongue with mushrooms and asparagus in white wine sauce is a mainstay in many of my fam’s celebrations.

Chinese New Year Faves
Chinese New Year Faves

Enjoy it at Bistro Charlemagne branches located in Ayala Malls Feliz and Ayala Malls Manila Bay or order for delivery via GrabFood.

More on Bistro Charlemagne here.

With such options so readily available, you can definitely look forward to a delicious celebration of Chinese New Year!

Header photo created by pressfoto – www.freepik.com

The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang and The Champagne Room reopens

The Manila Hotel’s dining outlets, the famed Café Ilang-Ilang and the iconic Champagne Room reopens soon after undergoing a few weeks of general maintenance. The hotel chose to suspend dining operations as the holiday festivities died down to ensure food quality and guest safety, as well as spot-checks on its facilities.

Come visit Café Ilang-Ilang

Café Ilang-Ilang is scheduled to reopen on January 28, 2022 (Friday). The dining outlet enjoys a loyal following among local and foreign guests as it offers authentic international fare as well as family-friendly dining experience. It continues to draw diners with its daily offering of gastronomic delights coupled with the culinary team’s passion to create an amazing spread of dishes that is in keeping with its acclaimed status as one of the best buffet restaurants in the country.

The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang and The Champagne Room reopens
The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang and The Champagne Room reopens
The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang and The Champagne Room reopens
The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang and The Champagne Room reopens

Diners can indulge in Café Ilang-Ilang’s wide range of food selections for lunch and dinner daily. This brings together Italian, Filipino, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and even certified Halal dishes under one roof for an indulgent eat-all-you-can feast featuring crowd favorites like the US Beef Rib Roast; items from the Churrasco station like meats and salmon; seafood like prawns and crabs; a glorious spread of different sushi and sashimi; Filipino favorites like Lechon with truffle rice; Chinese highlights like duck and various dimsum; an array of desserts including bibingka, puto bumbong, and halo-halo; and many more.

Fine dining at The Champagne Room

Meanwhile, Manila’s premier destination for exquisite fine dining will start accepting diners again on Wednesday, February 2, 2022. To date, The Champagne Room is a premier restaurant whose timeless beauty remains, coupled with fine dining of choices for discriminating diners who put a premium on impeccably prepared dishes, outstanding service, and luxurious ambiance. The most romantic room in the country marks the return of its fine dining just in time for Valentine month.

The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang and The Champagne Room reopens
The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang and The Champagne Room reopens
The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang and The Champagne Room reopens
The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang and The Champagne Room reopens

The Champagne Room will welcome guests with an option for walk-in and reservations four days a week (Wednesday through Saturday), with select a la carte items and special multi-course degustation menus to choose from—conceived by the hotel’s Executive Chef to showcase what this dining outlet is all about. Think generous servings of Black Angus Tenderloin, US Prime Beef Rib, the Chilean Sea Bass, or the satisfying Seafood Medley; there are also choices of starters; and for dessert, don’t miss out on the indulgent sweet delight—its signature Baked Alaska.

Safety standards

Both The Manila Hotel premiere outlets elevate the dining experience: broadening our palate with flavors from global cultures and cuisine and applying elevated standards of safety that allow guests to dine comfortably and with peace of mind.

Café Ilang-Ilang and The Champagne Room still implement physical distancing and reduced capacity measure that are compliant with the IATF and DOT guidelines for restaurants.

For more information regarding reservation and dining rates, please call our hotline numbers at (02) 85270011 or 0998-9501912. You may also email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com; or check and book online for Café Ilang-Ilang via https://www.manila-hotel.com.ph/dining/cafe-ilang-ilang/ and The Champagne Room via https://www.manila-hotel.com.ph/dining/champagne-room/.

Details and images provided by The Manila Hotel in a recent press release.

Boost your immune system with easy and healthy dishes from La Germania

La Germania dishes nutritious recipes to strengthen you and your family amid cold and flu season

The new year marks a fresh start, but it also means that flu season is upon us. That’s why it’s vital for you and your loved ones to take care of your health. One of the best ways to shield ourselves from diseases and possible health risks is preparing nutritious dishes at home.

To help you boost your immune system amid flu season, La Germania shares three recipes that are easy to make and rich with health benefits. By preparing these dishes at home, you also get to make a lot of savings. Hence, you hit two birds with one stone.

Get fancy with Salmon en Papillote

La Germania Healthy Dishes

French cuisine may sound intimidating, but this tender fish is deceptively easy and fast to prepare. Salmon is one of the most nutritious foods in the market, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins. Omega-3 fatty acids help build and maintain a healthy body, while B vitamins are a good energy source and may help with certain health problems, like migraines and anxiety. Baking this flavourful French dish will be a total breeze with your La Germania oven range.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs salmon, cut into four pieces
  • One small zucchini, thinly sliced
  • One head fennel, thinly sliced
  • One lemon, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp dried dill
  • 4 tsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • Parchment paper

Procedure:

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  • Cut parchment into four large ovals 15” by 10” inches. Then, fold each parchment in half.
  • On half of each parchment, layer on ¼ of the zucchini, ¼ the fennel, one piece of salmon, sprinkle with ¼ tsp salt, ¼ pepper, ¼ tsp dill, lemon slices, drizzle each salmon with one teaspoon olive oil and a few pieces of fennel fronds. Repeat this process with the three remaining salmon filets.
  • Close the parchment by folding the other half over the prepared salmon and carefully roll the open edges toward the center.
  • Set pouches on a baking sheet and bake on the center rack for 15 minutes.
  • Open carefully using a fork and serve.

Snack it up with Baked Garlic Sweet Potatoes

La Germania Healthy Dishes

If you’re in the mood for a delicious snack, you can forgo junk food and try this affordable yet delectable option instead. Sweet potato (a.k.a kamote) is a superfood packed with plenty of nutrients like Potassium, beta-carotene and Vitamin C. Potassium regulates one’s heartbeat. In contrast, beta-carotene is good for one’s eyesight. Meanwhile, Vitamin C is necessary for the growth, development, and repair of all body tissues. That’s why you should eat more sweet potatoes this flu season. With a La Germania compact oven in your arsenal, you can bake this mouthwatering dish to your heart’s content.

Ingredients:

  • Four medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch matchsticks
  • Two tablespoons olive oil
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Five cloves garlic, pressed
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Two tablespoons chopped parsley leaves for garnish

Procedure:

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat with nonstick spray.
  • Place the sweet potatoes in a single layer onto the prepared baking sheet. Add olive oil and gently toss to combine; season with salt and pepper to taste. Place into oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden and crisp, tossing occasionally.
  • Combine sweet potato with garlic and Parmesan cheese.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with parsley, if desired.

Recipe from DamnDelicious.net.

La Germania Healthy Dishes

There’s nothing like a warm soup to stay healthy this cold and flu season. You can skip the store-bought or instant soup by making this soup dish full of immunity-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying ingredients like assorted vegetables and a medley of spices. Following this 30-minute recipe will be easy peasy with your La Germania electric stove.

Ingredients:

  • One tablespoon olive oil
  • One yellow onion, diced
  • Six cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • One teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • One tablespoon lemon juice
  • One large sweet potato (about 1/2 lb) diced into ½” cubes
  • 1 15oz can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup red lentils, uncooked and rinsed
  • 5 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup kale, destemmed and torn into 1” pieces
  • Salt to taste

Procedure:

  • In a large pot or dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat for 1 minute.
  • Add the onion and cook over medium heat for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Add the garlic and ginger and continue to cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add the turmeric and paprika and continue to cook for 1 minute.
  • Add the lemon juice, sweet potatoes, chickpeas, red lentils, and vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  • Once the soup begins to boil, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the sweet potato is soft.
  • Add kale and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes until the kale has softened and wilted slightly.
  • Season with salt to taste.

Photo and Recipe from IHeartVegetables.com.

Built according to the highest European standards in terms of construction and design, La Germania appliances allow you to prepare nutritious dishes in an efficient and easy way. With guaranteed durability and superior quality, they’re a good investment for you to channel your inner chef, and make more immune-boosting food at home.

La Germania products are available online through La Germania’s official e-commerce website www.lagermaniaph.com and e-commerce platforms on Shopee and Lazada. You may follow the trusted kitchen and appliance brand’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts for more information on La Germania and its products.

Recipes and images provided by La Germania in a recent press release.

Gear up for cooking.

La Germania Electric Thermostat Oven
La Germania Electric Thermostat Oven
La Germania Range FS5031 21XR oven
La Germania Range FS5031 21XR oven

Guiltless goodness in Tagaytay: Koomi

One of the happiest discoveries of the family’s Tagaytay sojourn is the presence of one of our favorite yogurt drink stores at the nearby Ayala Malls Serin.

Koomi is an Australia-based chain which specializes in combinations of natural probiotic drinking yogurt with various fresh and wholesome ingredients to produce yummy and icy drinks.

Koomi Tagaytay
Koomi Tagaytay

If you haven’t tried Koomi drinks yet, you definitely should mainly for two reasons:

  • They are so good for you. Yogurt aids in digestion, boosting immunity and is rich in nutrients that promote bone health.
  • They taste so good. Flavored with natural sweeteners like fruit honey and enhanced with fruits, nuts and other healthy ingredients, Koomi drinks are yummy concoctions meant to be heartily enjoyed.

I took the opportunity during a supply run in Ayala Malls Serin to take out some delicious Koomi drinks for the fam, such as:

Koomi Tagaytay
Avo Nice Day (Php170). Yogurt flavored with rich avocado, my all-time fave!
Koomi Tagaytay
Mango Cracker Rocker (Php155). My daughter’s go-to drink made with yogurt, mango bits and crushed graham crackers.
Koomi Tagaytay
Cookies ‘n Cream (Php135). A treat for my son who loves the combo of yogurt and chocolate cookies.
Koomi Tagaytay
Banana Dance with Some Berries (Php175). For my health-conscious Hubby, this combo of yogurt, bananas, blueberries and strawberries is his smoothie!
Koomi Tagaytay
Nuts About You (Php155). I introduced Koomi to my mother-in-law with this not-too-sweet mix of yogurt, almonds and pistachios.
Koomi Tagaytay
Boppin’ Boba (Php135). I treated my nephew (and my son’s bestie) to the yogurt version of his favorite milk tea.

I opted for the Aussie blend, resulting in drinks with a very pronounced tanginess. However, Koomi also offers a Filipino blend which has cream added to the mixture, a flavor profile more aligned to the Pinoy palate.

Koomi Tagaytay
Koomi Tagaytay

Tagaytay vacationers (and residents, of course!) sure have some guiltless goodness to enjoy with this Koomi branch.

It’s located at Ayala Malls Serin, Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo Highway Brgy. Silang Crossing East Tagaytay City, Cavite 4120.

In Metro Manila, Koomi branches are located at:

  • Pasig: The Podium, Unimart Capitol Commons
  • Mandaluyong: SM Megamall
  • Quezon City: Robinsons Magnolia, Eastwood City Mall, SM North EDSA, Robinsons Galleria, Z Square Mall, Ali Mall, Ayala Vertis North, SM Fairview, Timog Avenue, Mezza Residences, Fisher Mall QC, Hemady Square, White Plains, UP Town Center, Maginhawa
  • Makati: SM Jazz, Glorietta 4, Salcedo Village
  • Pasay: SM Mall of Asia, Double Dragon Plaza
  • Manila: SM San Lazaro, SM Manila, Lucky Chinatown
  • Taguig; SM Aura, Uptown Mall
  • San Juan: VMall Greenhills
  • Muntinlupa: Festival Mall
  • Las Pinas: SM Southmall
  • Paranaque: SM City Bicutan, BF Homes
  • Malabon: Fisher Mall Malabon

Resort-style living city at SMDC’s Shore Residences Complex

With most of us having the chance to work remotely, it’s no wonder many city dwellers are packing their bags and moving to beautiful waterfront destinations. Who wouldn’t want to have a seafront view while working or run into the water after a long day of work, right?

Now you can live the resort lifestyle that you have always dreamed of at the Shore Residences complex.

This 9-hectare property developed by SM Development Corporation (SMDC) in the Mall of Asia complex lets you experience a premier waterfront lifestyle without having to leave the city.

SMDC Shore Resudences

It boasts 3 luxury resort-inspired enclaves: Shore Residences which provides you with exclusive beach-like amenities like beach entry pools with a feature island, and palm tree courtyards; Shore 2 Residences which offers a premier riverfront inspired lifestyle, with pools that stretch throughout the amenity deck; and Shore 3 Residences which showcases wharf-inspired amenities, expansive swimming pools offering distinct experiences like The Central Bay with an Olympic-length lap pool and in-water garden coves, and The Grand Ocean with an iconic wharf deck, beach-entry pool, and aquatic lounges.

Here’s how you can work hard, play hard, and still enjoy a resort-like lifestyle without having to give up everything you love about the city:

Have your own paradise in the middle of the hustle and bustle

Each unit can be your own little slice of paradise. You can choose from 2 bedroom or 1 bedroom units, and can even opt to move into special units that protrude from the building facade. You can also take advantage of Flexi Units and design it your way.

SMDC Shore Resudences

Imagine waking up every morning to views of resort-like gardens and pools right from your balcony. This will help energize you to face each work day with optimism and focus. And when the sun goes down, you get front row seats to the Manila Bay sunset which is one of the best views in the Philippines.

Enjoy your private waterfront home

Whether you want to take a quick dip, do laps in the athletic pools, or just relax and spend the day in any of the lounge pools, there are several stunning aquatic facilities which cater to both adults and kids.

SMDC Shore Resudences

These will surely help wash away any stress you may get from a long day at work, or can serve as a bonding activity with your kids or a quick workout on weekends.

Well-appointed public spaces

Don’t feel like getting wet? You can still enjoy a full set of out-of-water amenities within the Shore Residences complex.

Aside from the countless swimming pools, residents can also use the basketball court and jogging trails placed along beautifully landscaped gardens. Here, you can walk, run, or simply meditate while indulging in your lavish surroundings.

SMDC Shore Resudences

The development also boasts of well-appointed indoor gyms, where serious health buffs can break a sweat. And for special events with family and friends, the various function rooms and event spaces can accommodate any of life’s milestones.

Be at the center of all the action.

The Shore Residences complex is nestled in the Mall of Asia lifestyle and business complex which means you’re minutes away from hundreds of restaurants, retail and entertainment establishments. However, if an easy day at home is what tickles one’s fancy, a slew of restaurants, cafes and spas are conveniently located at the ground floor retail strip. It is also just a stone’s throw away from NAIAX that leads to the airport terminals and other major thoroughfares.

To cope with all of life’s stress, sometimes all we need is a little escape. Now, you can easily step out of your unit and enjoy the relaxing lifestyle only the Shore Residences complex can give.

To know more about SMDC’s Shore Residences, visit http://www.smdc.com/properties/ .

About SM Development Corporation (SMDC)

SMDC is the largest and fastest growing real estate developer in the Philippines. Championing perfectly integrated commercial and residential environments, SMDC provides every Filipino and its investors access to a sustainable and attainable cosmopolitan lifestyle. Through masterfully planned and award-winning complete developments, SMDC has been providing the dream homes of Filipinos in Metro Manila and other key cities in the Philippines.

Images and details provided by SMDC in a recent press release.

2D Themed Cafe in QC: Kurimi Milk Tea Bar

Nope, entering this milk tea bar doesn’t magically land you into a cartoon world.

Instead, it welcomes you into a place where you can take Instagrammable pics while enjoying your freshly made milk tea.

Check out Kurimi Milk Tea Bar!

Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato
Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato
Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato
Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato

This little store in the foodie-friendly Tomas Morato area in QC serves up the Pinoy’s new favorite beverage – milk tea, of course – in a quaint and picturesque setting. Every wall, nook and cranny has been painted white with thick black outlines to give that interesting 2D effect. Yes, it’s walking into a cartoon!

Here you can enjoy a wide array of Japanese style tea drinks, from Kurimi’s signature milk tea, cheesecake and cream cheese series as well as specialty drinks that include:

Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato
Kurimi Mil Tea with Pearl
Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato
Cocoa Cream Cheese with Pearl
Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato
Honey Peach Fruit Tea
Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato
Honey Peach Fruit Tea with Cream Cheese and Mixed Jelly
Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato
Cheesecake Kurimi Milk Tea with Pearl
Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato
Taro Cream Cheese
Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato
Taro Cheesecake with Pearl
Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato
Matcha Cream Cheese

Hang out here with your frinds and take a pic: you and your drink will be the pops of color against your cute 2D background.

Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato
Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato
Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato
Kurimi Milk Tea Bar, Tomas Morato

This Kurimi Milk Tea Bar branch is located at 88 Scout Limbaga Street, Barangay Sacred Heart, Quezon City, open for dine-in, takeout, curbside pickup and delivery via GrabFood.

For inquiries or orders, call +63 951 3558571.