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GREEN FIG (BANANA) AND SALTFISH

April 24, 2010 By Felix Leave a Comment

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GREEN FIG AND SALTFISH

Green fig and saltfish is a simple trini meal I like to partake of once in a while. And, with banana trees in my backyard this dish is always welcome. When the bananas are full, I just use my trusty sharp cutlass ( machete) and with one clean cut, I cut the bunch of green bananas.

A BUNCH OF GREEN FIG

To acclimatise you all with the conventions used with quantifying ( Big word people! Big Word!) green bananas I’ll explain a bit. Fig is our trini term, and by extension Caribbean term, for bananas, so don’t get confused with the other “fig”. A bunch is the bunch of bananas; a hand refers to one of the smaller “bunches” that make up the large bunch; a grain of fig refers to one of the individual bananas that make up the hand. I hope you’re not that confused. Anyway the pictures below will give you a better idea.

SALTFISH

By now you may realise that saltfish is really a staple food in our trini diet. We eat saltfish in accras, buljol with fry bake and also dumpling. It is a wonderful addition to the trini menu and also a life saver coming close to month end, when the fridge starts to look empty and you start to get creative with the little that you have. Trinis know what I’m talking about! Ent?  lol So, I hope you enjoy this trinistyle way of cooking saltfish or salted cod as most will know it. Enjoy Green Fig and Saltfish… as trini as it could get!

GREEN FIG AND SALTFISH RECIPE

GREEN FIG AND SALTFISH

1 hand of green fig (bananas)
1 1/2 lb saltfish
3 pimento peppers, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 carrot, grated ( large side of grater)
3 med. tomatoes, chopped
1/2 large sweet pepper
1 pinch salt
1/2 tbsp. oil
1/2 cup water

A hand of fig

A grain of fig. Mark the green fig (banana) with a knife as shown.

Place in a pot of water add 1/2 tbsp of oil …

and a pinch of salt.

Boil until the skin changes colour and the bananas are tender.

The peeled, green bananas.

Note: We usually leave the bananas in the water until we’re ready to serve.

This keeps the bananas soft.

Boil the saltfish for about twenty minutes. Clean and break into smaller pieces.

Note: Even after boiling the saltfish, it may still be a little salty. To remedy this problem, place it in a bowl of water and squeeze the pieces of saltfish, handfuls at a time, and place in another bowl when finished. That should get the excess salt out. Don’t over squeeze though; we need some salt to flavour the rest of ingredients.

In an iron pot, saute the onion and garlic over a medium flame until translucent.

Add the pimento peppers…

Sweet pepper…

Grated carrot…

and tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes

Add the saltfish and mix thoroughly.

Add about 1/2 cup water and let simmer for 1 minute.

The finished saltfish. Serve over the green fig (bananas).

More recipes to come.

Ah Gone!   Don’t forget to leave your comment on green fig and saltfish in the comment box below.

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SS Stavronikita | Barbados' Premier Dive Site

It is a strange history for a ship to have spent half of its life on the water and half under it. But that is the story of the SS Stavronikita, Barbados' premier dive site. The Stav, as she is called by those in the know, is quite unexpected in many ways. Despite being a valuable 365-foot freighter only 20 years old, she was sunk deliberately and took only 13 minutes to go down. In 1976 the Stav was carrying a cargo of cement to Barbados when a fire overwhelmed her and she was towed to port where she stayed for 2 years, before being purchased by Barbados to be used as a dive site. But, it is no mean feat sinking a 4,000 ton ship, so explosives experts were brought in from Puerto Rico. It is possible to see the explosion holes where the hull is peeled back like an opened gift. Two hundred pounds of explosives were used, so it is surprising to see her still intact, sitting upright and showing no signs of disintegrating. As with the Pamir, she has been cleared of all fittings likely to trap divers, and the spaces we pass through are clear and open. However, as befits the dignity of a large ship, she has to be dived with caution. She is deep and large enough to get lost inside but that, of course, is the thrill of diving her. Our dive group is split into two: those who will go down to the propeller at 140 feet and penetrate the wreck there (3-tank rating), and those who will dive through the upper deck cabins, maximum depth 100 feet (2-tank rating). This plan enables divers of different experience levels to enjoy the wreck. A spare tank and regulator is suspended at 20 feet in case anyone is short of air for a safety stop.
Dive Profile Click on image for larger map Thanks to Mike Seale at Exploresub for the drawing of the Stav.

The descent down the buoy line takes us to the top of the forward mast at 20 feet. From there we drop quickly down onto the top deck, at 80 feet, passing through a passageway and out toward the aft deck. We tip over the port rail and down to the huge propeller. You can dive underneath the propeller, taking you to a maximum of 140 feet. Our route down is determined by the current flowing across the wreck, the route being designed to keep the party together. It is a couple of minutes longer than a direct drop to the propeller, possible when there is no current. The direct route allows for more bottom time, so our passage through and up the inside of the wreck is accelerated.

The visibility is poor during our dive, perhaps only 30 feet; again, this is not the norm. The main superstructure is hardly visible during the descent via the forward mast, but it looms out of the murk, making an impressive sight. In normal visibility, it is possible to see most of the ship.

We pass to the starboard side of the propeller and enter one of the explosion holes just in front. The prop shaft is clearly visible as we swim inside the ship and up through a series of compartments to enter the cabins. There are numerous cabins linked by a network of corridors. It is possible to go into the engine room but a light is needed. The route we take is dark at times, but never completely black. Escape routes out of the hull are frequently visible.

Our route takes us through the cargo hold and finally up to the bow. In the darker sections of the interior there is no marine growth, but deepwater sea fans make a frilly curtain around many of the entry areas. The dark recesses are tailor-made accommodation for a variety of squirrel fish and black bar soldierfish.

Once out on the deck, sponges occur, some seeming to have taken on the huge proportions of the ship. Tall yellow tube sponges pose like pieces of deck equipment and purple row pore rope sponges give the ship a brighter costume than ever it had afloat. The bow is alive with fish, perhaps admiring the ship's coat of arms still proclaiming her heritage on the side of the bow. A barracuda patrols the foredeck, as if on anchor watch.

It is time to ascend for our safety stop and a last look at the mast as we move up it to the buoy line. The once gleaming mast is now thick with growth, and fish fuss around it like seagulls following a fishing boat.

There is usually little or no current in this area but there are always exceptions to the rule and we are glad of the buoy line to hang on to as the current is strong. From here under normal visibility you can look down on to the Stav and see the whole ship, although the fact that it had taken us 20 minutes at a reasonable pace to swim through her is a good indication of her size.

Thanks to William of West Side Scuba Centre.

Original Source 

Beaches - Barbados

Welcome to the tropical island of Barbados. While you're here, we invite you to discover what life is like all year round on an island that's surrounded by the beautiful Caribbean Sea.

Not necessarily bragging but let's face it, Barbados has some of the most alluring beaches in the world.

Our west coast beaches offer calm, turquoise waters ideal for swimming, tanning, water skiing, snorkeling and loads of other beach activities. This all makes it ultimate location for a family vacation or a romantic getaway. Speaking of romantic getaway, whatever you do, please don't be late for the absolute wonderment that awaits you when the sun sets on the island's west coast. Truly a sight to behold!

For those who prefer to do more than just a leisurely swim in calm waters but yearn for a bit more extreme vacation, there's the option of surfing. As the waves swell predominantly on the islands' east coast and sometimes in parts of the south & west coasts, surfers effortlessly mount their boards and paddle out unfazed with an air of eagerness...come what may.

The unspoilt landscape of the rugged north coast beaches, meanders effortlessly along the steep escarpments of this coast. Attractively unusual bays and an expanses of white sandy beaches lend themselves well to the true nature that exists on this coast. Though this coast is not in any way ideal for swimming, it's been frequented by many when sightseeing and having picnics.

Important Things to Note About Barbados Beaches

There are certain things to keep in mind in order to make the most of your time on Barbados' beaches:

• All beaches on the island of Barbados have public access as decreed by the Barbados Government. This is highly beneficial as it allows you to experience a variety of beaches on the island
• Unlike some of the other Caribbean islands, the Barbados government has decreed that all beaches have public access, so if you enjoy variety you can visit every beach in Barbados
• Despite the fact that you may be able to swim in most areas, please note that the island is still very susceptible to storm-tossed seas and strong currents that make conditions unfavourable for swimming.
• Not every beach in Barbados has a lifeguard so the onus is on you to prioritise your safety when going for a swim. We strongly recommend swimming with someone should you go for a swim.
• Though the desire to be laid back and relaxed is very easy to do when on the beach, it may be equally as easy to fall asleep while laying in the sun. Avoid this practice wherever possible as you can become susceptible to being sunburnt, dehydrated or even developing sunstroke
• Hydration is key so try to drink lots of clear fluids, especially water, when spending time on our beaches
• Topless or nude sunbathing is forbidden on Barbados' beaches
• Familiarize yourself with the Manchineel trees that appear on some Barbados beaches. The fruit of these tree are poisonous and other tree parts contain strong toxins secreted in a white milky substance. Please don't shelter under these trees if it's raining as blistering of the skin can occur from contact with this liquid. Many Manchineel trees display a warning sign and others are marked with a red "X" on the trunk to indicate danger
• Barbados beach traders may try to sell you aloe vera and hand-crafted jewellery, coconut bird boxes, palm leaf hats, pottery, and wire figures. They will rarely pester you, and a smile and polite 'no thanks' is usually reciprocated with 'OK, have a good day'. You might also be asked if you want to buy drugs. If tempted, please remember that the possession of drugs in Barbados is illegal and carries a prison sentence

ORIGINAL SOURCE

14 Reasons you should move to Barbados

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The small island nation of Barbados, located in the Caribbean is located just outside the hurricane belt and has English as an official language. But these aren’t the only things that make the country an appealing destination to move to. Below are 14 additional reasons.

1. Great Infrastructure

Barbados has a well-developed network of roads and highways, and easy access to public transportation, with which one can easily circumnavigate the whole country. Locals and tourists also have access to clean, safe drinking water island-wide and good sanitation. Grantley Adams Airport, located in Seawell, Christchurch, is a hub for various airlines, and it was recently renovated after high international standards.

Image via Flickr by Shawn

2. Active Nightlife

Barbados has an active nightlife throughout the country, with plenty of pubs, clubs, rum shacks and restaurants in all of the main cities. One of the most famous clubs is the Harbour Lights, an open-air nightclub right on the stunning Carlisle Bay Beach, just 5 minutes from the heart of Bridgetown. Most clubs play local beats, including reggae and calypso, while some even party to some R&B.

Image via eyedialogue.com

3. Parties and Festivals

The most colorful and most important festival in the country is the Crop Over Festival, which was first celebrated in the late 18th century, when Barbados was the largest sugar producer in the World. Although the traditional celebrations ended in 1940, the festival was revived in 1974 to create an even bigger extravaganza, which consists of fairs, parties, carnivals, market stalls, folk concerts, exhibitions, and much more.

Image via panamericanworld.com

4. Great Landscapes

Although Barbados is somewhat flatter than its neighboring Caribbean countries, not having true hills or mountains, it still has numerous attractive landscapes besides its many lovely beaches. Harrison’s Cave is one of the most famous attractions in the country, allowing visitors to witness some of the most astonishing geological features the country has to offer. The Flower Forest presents an insight to exotic plants and meandering trails. The Welchman Hall Gully Tropical Forest is the perfect destination for a day of hiking, wildlife-viewing and admiring tropical plants.

Image via Flickr by Berit Watkin

5. Amazing Diving Spots

Divers will surely not be disappointed when in Barbados, since several types of reefs, sponges, corals and abundant plant life await curious sportsmen and women. Besides colorful barrier reefs serving as habitats for thousands of beautiful fish, Barbados is also home to some of the best wreck diving in the Caribbean. Two of the most popular sites are Carlisle Bay, with more than 200 wrecks, and the Stavronikita, in Folkestone Marine Park.

Image via Flickr by Marion Doss

6. Awesome Beaches

Barbados has some of the most beautiful beaches of the Caribbean. Crane Beach is wide and covered in pink sand, welcoming rolling turquoise waves, inviting you to swim, sunbathe or boogie board. Browne’s Beach is one of the widest in the country, with calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Silver Sands Beach is the best spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing, whilst Bathsheba’s beaches are best for surfing.

Image via Flickr by Gary Bembridge

7. Tropical Climate

The country is located just outside the hurricane strike area, and has a tropical monsoon climate. It generally experiences two seasons: there’s a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May. Temperatures range between 70 to 88OF during the dry season and between 73 to 88OF during the wet season. Annual precipitation is between 40 and 90 inches.

Image via Flickr by Berit Watkin

8. Plenty of Leisure Activities

If you’re bored of the beautiful beaches (we highly doubt you are), and want to do something else besides diving, you don’t need to worry, Barbados has a ton of fun activities up its sleeve! Adrenaline junkies can choose between motor-sports and go-kart racing, or trying out their precision at the local shooting ranges. There are also numerous opportunities for horse-back riding, even on the beach! For the more cultural souls, plenty of concerts, airshows, standup comedies, theater shows and exhibits can be found.

Image via uncommoncaribbean.com

9. Inviting Cuisine

Local cuisine is an infusion between African, Indian and British influences. One of the national dishes is Cou-Cou, consisting mainly of cornmeal and okra. It is also the national dish in Antigua and Barbuda, the British Virgin Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Flying fish is another one of the signature dishes of Barbados, along with fried fish cakes, fish and chips, souse, black pudding, tamarind balls and baked custard.

Image via Flickr by Angie Torres

10. Shopping

If you’re one of those people who just can’t go a few days without buying yourself some new stuff, whether it’s groceries, clothes, furniture, or anything in between, then you’ve come to the right place. If you’re looking for big brands like Michael Kors, Burberry, Armani or Luis Vuitton, head to the Limegrove Lifestyle Center in Holetown. For something more local, try out the many farmers’ markets, which can be found in every town in the country. The Cheapside Market in Bridgetown is a must-see!

Image via searchengineland.com

11. Cricket

The national sport of Barbados is cricket, similarly to other countries of British colonial heritage. The West Indies Cricket Team, the team which represents the sporting confederation of 15 Caribbean countries, usually includes several players from Barbados. Some of the greatest Barbadian cricketers are Wes Hall, Charlie Griffith, Joel Garner and Gordon Greenidge.

Image via Flickr by Tom Hodgkinson

12. Stable Political Environment

Barbados has one of the most stable political environments in the Caribbean. Its parliamentary system exists since 1639, which makes it the third oldest parliament in the British Commonwealth. It’s one of the most stable countries in the Caribbean, with a low inflation rate and steady economic growth. Its banking system ranked the 4th most stable in the Western Hemisphere, according to the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report.

Image via barbadostoday.bb

13. Ultimate Luxury at Gibbs Beach

If you’ve saved up enough to finally purchase your dream beach house, look no further, because we have the perfect option for you! For $1,495,000 you can buy a 3,176 sqft home in one of the most exclusive residential resorts in the country in the St. Peter area, on Gibbs Beach. The villa features three bedrooms, four baths, a large balcony, a landscaped garden with tropical plants, a pool with a gazebo and even an illuminated waterfall. The house has a family den, an open plan kitchen with living and dining areas, which open to private covered patios and terraces. If you’re one for high-profile living, you will surely enjoy this neighborhood and the villa.

Image via Point2 Homes

14. Convenient townhouse in Christ Church

You can purchase your own three-bedroom, two-bath, 1,309 sqft townhouse in the city of Christ Church for merely $235,000. The listing comes with a lovely garden area leading up to a covered patio. The house itself has a spacious living and dining area, a lovely kitchen and an extra laundry room. The house is very private due to the surrounding garden and its corner location.

Image via Point2Homes

If you’re looking for a fun, relaxing, but still lively place to relocate to, where you can enjoy some of the best beaches in the World, then Barbados is the ultimate destination for you!

 ADRIENN TAKACS

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