Orientellc

05/03/2026

Thankyou

03/22/2026

The Secret to Staying Fresh at Every Age: A Lesson from the Kitchen and the Garden 

Growing up in a household with Caribbean, Latin, and Southern roots, the "medicine cabinet" wasn't just in the bathroom it was in the garden and the stockpot. We learned early that herbs aren't just for flavor; they are for healing, detoxing, and honoring our bodies. 

As we get older, our bodies change, and sometimes a specific scent often called "nonenal" or "old person smell"can develop. It’s a natural part of aging and shifts in health, but our ancestors gave us the tools to handle it with grace!

 The Power of Cerasee (Bitter Melon)

In Jamaica, it’s Cerasee. In Cuba, it’s Cundeamor, and in Trinidad, you might know it as Caraille. This "bush tea" is a staple for "cleansing the blood."

 * The Benefits: It’s famous for digestive health, and acting as a natural detoxifier.

 * How it Works: By helping the body eliminate toxins from the inside out, it supports overall skin health and clarity.

 * Chef’s Note: Cerasee is powerful! If you are managing blood sugar or blood pressure, consult your physician first. It can naturally lower insulin and glucose levels, which might interfere with your medication.

 The Magic of Persimmon

If you’ve never had a Persimmon, you’re missing out! It’s a beautiful, honey-sweet fruit that looks like a cross between a tomato and a plum.

 * The Benefits: Persimmons are rich in specific tannins that actually break down the compounds responsible for that "aging" odor.

 * The Routine: Look for Persimmon Soap for your herbal baths. It’s incredible for the neck and behind the ears where oils collect.

 * Inside-Out Healing: Adding mushrooms like Shiitake or Oyster to your diet provides antioxidants that slow down the cell damage contributing to these odors.

  -aging
As a Chef, a Mom, and a lover of God first, I believe our bodies are temples that deserve the best care. We can stay fresh, vibrant, and healthy by returning to the earth’s gifts. 

I am not a doctor, just a woman sharing the wisdom of our culture! Please talk to your physician before starting any new herbal regimen.

Stay blessed, stay fragrant, and keep cooking!

03/12/2026

The Haitian Influence in Oriente
​Following the Haitian Revolution (1791–1804), thousands of Haitians both French settlers and enslaved people fled to the eastern provinces of Cuba, particularly Santiago de Cuba y Guantánamo.
​They brought with them more than just their labor; they brought coffee cultivation, music (like the Tumba Francesa), a drum used at Carnival and their unique culinary techniques. This cultural blend turned Oriente into a "melting pot within a melting pot," setting its food apart from the rest of the island.
​The Origin of the Name "Congrí"
​The name itself is a linguistic bridge between Haitian Creole and Cuban Spanish. It is widely believed to be a contraction of two Creole words:
​Congon: Referring to "Pois de Congo" (Congo peas/pigeon peas) or simply beans.
​Riz: The French/Creole word for rice.
​In Haiti, the dish is known as Riz et Pois. When this tradition landed in the Oriente region, "Congo" and "Riz" merged into Congrí.
​Congrí vs. Moros y Cristianos
​While many people use the terms interchangeably, there is a historical distinction in Cuba:
​Moros y Cristianos: Traditionally uses black beans and is more common in Western Cuba (Havana).
​Congrí: Historically made with red beans (typical of the Haitian style) and is the signature version found in the Oriente region. ​ CaribbeanHistory

02/22/2026

Rest in Power, Willie Colón (1950–2026)
​The trombone has fallen silent, but the rhythm will never end. Yesterday, the world lost a giant, a pioneer, and the heartbeat of the streets. Willie Colón has gone up in the chariot to join the great celestial orchestra.
​To think of Willie is to think of la lucha the struggle, the hustle, and the raw beauty of our stories. He gave a voice to the neighborhood and turned our pain and love into anthems that will be danced to for generations. He represented Rico and Latinos unidos
​Remembering the Legend:
​The Dynamic Duo: We find comfort knowing he is reunited with Hector Lavoe. From the defiant energy of "El Malo" to the haunting soul of "Barrunto," their brotherhood changed music forever.
​The Masterpieces: Whether it was the holiday spirit of "La Murga" or the powerhouse collaboration with Celia Cruz on "Dos Jueyes," and idilio. Willie’s vision was unmatched.
​The Voice of the People: He stood for the struggles of life the "lyfying" moments and turned them into poetry.
​"May the Lord cover his family with peace and comfort. We cherish the memories, the grit, and the grace he shared with us all. Thank you, Willie, for the soundtrack to our lives."
​Your music touched our hearts, soothed our minds, and gave us a reason to dance even when life was hard. The Salsa world will never forget you.
​¡Buen viaje, Maestro! Que suene el trombón en el cielo. salsapioneer

02/20/2026

Valentine’s Day 2026

02/16/2026

Valentine’s Day Dinner in Cranford NJ. Great customer service, Super attentive great food and great presentation. Thankyou, you made our day! # .

02/16/2026

I’ve become very private in my life, but still transparent Virgo, gemini moon, scorpio ascending, ta**us descending energy. Whether you had a Valentine or not, this day is really about showing love and gratitude.

Thank you, , my fiancé for your care, patience, understanding, and growth. For loving me and my kids. Vice versa, because we take care of each other. For creating a home where we can learn, heal, and grow. I’ve known this man for 26 years, he is a mentor to many, also my , my friend, and yes, we dated when I was younger. We had our lives seperate apart and made a choice to be one again. I’m grateful we’re still in each other’s lives for the lessons, the blessings, and the harmony.

Our isn’t perfect, but we respect boundaries, communicate, support and choose each other with intention. We laugh! Many men aren’t raised to be affectionate, reciprocate love due to childhood trauma, conditioning to be macho and not show emotion. God is stretching him and opened him to receive and give love differently. It is said that affection is a healer. I’m thankful he listens not just to my smart remarks, but to the care behind them.We learn from each other daily. Piango Piango day by day enjoying the moments and respecting Father time while making memories.

We had a beautiful day with . Dinner at in Cranford, Nj it was amazing only thing missing was a little extra demi‑glace on my filet mignon. The drinks were great, the conversations were real, and the love in the room was everything.

Then we ended the night at ’s concert at in Rahway. Great staff, beautiful crowd, and an outstanding performance. Will is a great entertainer! Everyone was dressed up and surrounded by people they love.

’sDay isn’t just for it’s for anyone who pours love into your life. Love is meant to be shared.

02/06/2026

Lazy day decidedcto mske buffalo wings and buffalo french fries with blue cheese crumble. Used marinate for wings overnight garlic, oj, lime juice, olive oil unsalted butter blended, cracked pepper and worshestsire sauce. Air fry sweet baby rays nashville hot and buffalo. Red hot buffalo ranch seasoning. Heavenly Saucy happy

01/23/2026

Coconut Thai curry, pickled onions and cabbage, butter greens and MY TOO LATE BUT ITS

01/23/2026