Kapeng Barako

Kapeng Barako is a variety of coffee grown in the Philippines, primarily in the provinces of Batangas and Cavite.  It belong to the species Coffea liberica. Barako is the Filipino term for a male stud animal.  The term has also become associated with the image of a tough man.  During the lat 19th century, the Philippines was the world's 4th biggest exporter of coffee beans.  Unfortunately the coffee rust that hit Brazil, Africa and Java also hit the country.  Today, the Philippines ranks 110th in the world in terms of coffee production.  The top producers are 1-Brazil, 2-Vietnam, and 3-Colombia and Mexico.  The popularity of coffee as a drink has only increased year on and year on.  A famous quote from Thomas Jefferson sums up its popularity---"coffee, the favourite drink of the civilised world."

New food blog on the digital block

New Zealand's multicultural setting fuels the rise of new restaurants from different cultures.  From time immemorial fish and chips shops and takeaways run by Chinese and Indian entrepreneurs, there is now a myriad of cuisines from all corners of the planet.  This new blog on the block will highlight, discover, nurture, educate and promote multiculturalism through food!

Migration is also instrumental in making Kiwis more appreciative of food from many nations.  The traditional roast dinner has not been replaced really but new foods has been added like sushi, Pad Thai, nasi goreng, adobo, pork barbecue, and many more.  Kiwis have become more adventurous in trying new dishes, and surprisingly liking them.  The influx of overseas students from Asia, the Middle East, Pacific Islands, the Philippines, Africa, Europe and the Americas contributed to the rise and development of new places to eat.  All of these factors will be featured and shared in this blog.