Some of this has to do with culture. For example, despite my love affair with vegetables, there are none in my fridge. That's because I just walk the 200 yards to the market every morning and get them fresh daily. There also aren't many things in there that come prepared. We don't have lots of options for that in Puerto Supe.
There are no eggs, because I keep them in a basket on the counter. Did you know that outside of the US (even in Europe), eggs are sold on supermarket shelves unrefrigerated? Apparently they have some kind of outer coating that preserves them. In the US, that coating is removed, so don't try this at home!
Here's what I spot:
There are no eggs, because I keep them in a basket on the counter. Did you know that outside of the US (even in Europe), eggs are sold on supermarket shelves unrefrigerated? Apparently they have some kind of outer coating that preserves them. In the US, that coating is removed, so don't try this at home!
Here's what I spot:
- a freezer-full of raw chicken-- ironic since we're mostly vegetarian cooks (it's dog food)
- coffee
- Absolut Raspberri
- homemade mayonnaise
- chopped (fresh) pineapple
- pureed garlic
- plastic bags I think filled with fresh herbs
- mint chocolate chunk cookie dough
- extra brown rice
- leftover lentil soup
- water
- uncooked grits
- a cup containing today's leftover fruit-and-veggie-waldorf salad
As I write this, I'm remembering that a lot of people in Puerto Supe don't have a refrigerator. What does that say? Both some cultural statements (like about the market, freshness, and the lack of prepared items) and a big statement about the economic condition of my neighbors.
My housekeeper's refrigerator is missing the seal, and she doesn't see the point in paying the $20 to have it fixed. Furthermore, she hasn't had electricity in her house since January (just stop and imagine that for a moment-- candlelight dinner every night). She uses the refrigerator as a bookshelf. I'd love to submit that photo to the series!