Quick and Tasty Dominican Beverages

Growing up in a predominantly Dominican household, I was exposed to various meals and drinks that are native to the country. My mother was born and raised in Santiago, Dominican Republic and she came to the United States when she was 23 years old. Regardless of now living in the states, she always brought a piece of her home to her meals. I have fond memories of her cooking meals that were so fragrant and mouth watering it lured all into the kitchen. My mom's specialty was not only food but beverages as well. These authentic Dominican drinks are quick to make and great to enjoy all year long.

I remember the first time my mother gave me this rich shake. I was 8 years old and I was so curious about what she was whipping up in the kitchen. She had out her trusty blender which she often used and about 6 papayas lined on the counter. She was making a large quantity for some family members that had come to visit that day. Upon sipping some milkshake from a straw, I instantly fell in love with this high vitamin C exotic fruit. I asked my mother what was the name of this beverage and she said, "Batida de Lechoza." So here it is.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups of papaya cubes - it can be fresh or frozen (my mother bought large amounts of papaya and freeze them in a bag)

1 cup of sugar - as I got older I made the shake with a little less sugar to suit my taste better.

2 cups of ice

1 tablespoon of Vanilla Extract

4 cups of evaporated milk - you can use half the amount of evaporated milk and replace the other two cups with regular milk

Instructions

1. Place all ingredients into blender and mix on high speed until all ice is broken up and blended.

2. Serve into cups.

Nothing like mom's "Avena Caliente" to warm frozen toes and fingers. I enjoyed this treat for breakfast on winter mornings before going to school. My mom would pour a hefty amount into a ceramic mug and I would gladly sip on this hearty drink. I would find myself having a second helping after I arrived home from playing with the snow with my younger brother. It was the perfect cure for my rosy cheeks. I enjoyed the thick and chunky consistency of the oats. It was not only tasty but the only way my mother could get me to eat oatmeal. I did not like it any other way.

Ingredients

1/4 cup of sugar - you can use less if too sweet

1/2 cup of plain oats

2 cups of evaporated milk - my mother sometimes also used regular milk

1 cup of water

1 teaspoon of clove

1 whole stick of cinnamon

Directions

1. Soak the oats in water for about a half an hour prior cooking.

2. Combine the oatmeal and water into a blender and blend for 1 minute.

3. Place the mixture in a pot and add the rest of the ingredients (clove, cinnamon, sugar and milk)

4. Bring to boil and continue stirring mixture.

5. Reduce heat to low and continue to cook for 5 minutes.

6. Serve

Who knew orange juice and milk could be mixed together? It's like a sherbet! In Spanish this beverage is called "Morir Sonando" which means "to die dreaming". This drink was very popular in my mom's house. It is so easy to make and with such little ingredients it's a wonder how it taste so good. This is one I hope to continue making for my family.

Ingredients

2 cups of orange juice

4 cups of milk - a few of my aunts used evaporated milk but my mother used regular milk

1/2 cup of sugar

A dash of lime juice

2 cups of ice

Directions

1. Combine the sugar and milk. Mix well and refrigerate if drink is being prepared ahead of time.

2. When drink is ready to be served, combine the milk mixture with orange juice, ice and lemon juice.

3. Serve and Enjoy!

Bring a little of Santo Domingo to your kitchen and try out these fabulous drinks. Have fun!