US Territory Puerto Rico In the Dark Ahead of New Year

News Americas, New York, NY, December 31, 2024: Many Puerto Ricans on the US territory will likely ring in the New Year in darkness.

Joggers exercise on a dark street in San Juan, Puerto Rico after a major power outage hit the island on December 31, 2024. (Photo by RICARDO ARDUENGO/AFP via Getty Images)

Puerto Rico is grappling with a massive blackout just hours before New Year’s Eve, leaving much of the island in darkness. By Tuesday morning, only 14 percent of the island’s 1.4 million utility customers had power, according to Luma Energy, the U.S. territory’s electricity provider.

The headlights of a car lights up a dark street in San Juan, Puerto Rico after a major power outage hit the island on December 31, 2024. (Photo by RICARDO ARDUENGO/AFP via Getty Images)

Luma Energy described the outage as “systemwide,” attributing it to a fault on an underground line. The company said power restoration would be phased and could take 24 to 48 hours, though officials warned it could take longer.

Governor Pedro Pierluisi called for urgent action, stating, “We are demanding answers,” and urging power companies to expedite efforts to restore service.

The headlights of a car lights up a dark street in San Juan, Puerto Rico after a major power outage hit the island on December 31, 2024. (Photo by RICARDO ARDUENGO/AFP via Getty Images)

Puerto Rico has endured frequent blackouts since Hurricane Maria devastated the island’s infrastructure in 2017. Tuesday’s outage significantly exceeds the June blackout that left 350,000 customers without power.

Despite the outage, critical facilities like Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport continue to operate on generators, ensuring some services remain functional. Many Puerto Ricans, however, are expected to ring in the New Year without electricity.

Murder Toll Passes 623 In This Caribbean Nation

News Americas, New York, NY, December 30, 2024: The murder toll so far for 2024 has surpassed 623 in one Caribbean nation.

Trinidad and Tobago has declared a state of emergency as the murder toll in the twin-island Caribbean nation surpassed 623 for the year. The drastic measure comes amid a wave of violence, including an attempted assassination of a gang leader over the weekend, which authorities fear could spark further reprisals.

Emergency Measures to Curb Violence

Under the emergency declaration, members of the defense forces will be empowered to act as law enforcement officers, conducting raids without warrants. The order also suspends bail for suspects and allows authorities to detain individuals for up to 48 hours without charges. This detention period can be extended for an additional seven days with court approval.

Rising Crisis in Trinidad and Tobago

The state of emergency underscores the escalating violence gripping the islands, located just off Venezuela’s coast. The government is taking these steps in a bid to prevent further bloodshed and restore public safety.

The move follows a series of recent murders, leaving communities on edge as authorities work to stabilize the situation. Violence continues to grip Trinidad and Tobago, with five men shot Sunday night on the outskirts of Port of Spain, a man killed outside a police station on Saturday, and a 57-year-old woman fatally shot Friday while collecting her son from a hospital in San Fernando.

With a population of just 1.5 million, the nation’s unprecedented 2024 murder tally places it among the most violent countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.

UK Times Names Windward Islands Among Top Winter 2025 Destinations

News Americas, New York, NY, December 30, 2024: The UK Times has ranked the Windward Islands in the Caribbean among the top three destinations to visit during winter 2025, highlighting their charm and tropical allure as perfect for island-hopping adventures in March, the region’s driest month.

Jacko Steps to Layou River, Dominica is in the Windwards Island chain.

Why Visit the Windward Islands?

Nestled in the southeastern Caribbean Sea, the Windward Islands boast a mix of natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse experiences. The group includes:

St. Lucia: Known for the iconic twin peaks of the Pitons, this island offers stunning landscapes and luxurious retreats like Jade Mountain, where suites open to breathtaking views of the mountains and sea.

Grenada: The “Spice Isle” captivates visitors with its fragrant spice plantations, beaches, and waterfalls.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines: A mini-archipelago ideal for sailing and exploring pristine beaches.

Dominica: Nature’s paradise, featuring rainforests, hot springs, and a commitment to eco-tourism.

Martinique: A French overseas department blending Caribbean charm with European sophistication.

Perfect for Island-Hopping

The Times emphasized the ease of exploring multiple islands, with short flights and cruises connecting these postcard-perfect destinations. Whether seeking luxury or adventure, visitors can enjoy the best of each island without having to choose just one.

When to Visit?

March is highlighted as the ideal time to visit, offering dry, sunny weather—perfect for travelers who want to avoid rain and make the most of their Caribbean escape.

The Windward Islands, ranked at three and continue to cement their place as a must-visit destination, offering something for every traveler, from natural beauty to cultural experiences and luxurious accommodations.

India was ranked at number one on the list followed by Bali at two.

Here’s Who Will Be Performing With Vybz Kartel

News Americas, New York, NY, December 30, 2024: The stage is set for what promises to be the most electrifying event in dancehall history: Vybz Kartel – Freedom Street, on New Year’s Eve or Old Year’s Night in Jamaica. The concert, slated for December 31, 2024, at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica, features a star-studded lineup of artists and DJs guaranteed to usher in the New Year in style. Here’s who will join Kartel on stage.

The Lineup of Legends

Vybz Kartel

Headlining the event is none other than the “Worl’ Boss” himself, Vybz Kartel, alongside an incredible cast of dancehall and reggae heavyweights:

Spice – Dancehall’s queen will bring her signature energy.

Popcaan – Expect his chart-topping hits and commanding stage presence.

Skillibeng – The “Crocodile Teeth” hitmaker will deliver his unique style.

Tommy Lee Sparta – Known for his intense delivery and captivating performance.

Chronic Law, Shawn Storm, and Masicka – Bringing their lyrical firepower to the stage.

Shatta Wale – Representing Ghana, adding an international flair.

Bounty Killer – A dancehall legend who needs no introduction.

Busta Rhymes – The hip-hop icon joins the celebration.

Jah Vinci, Rvssian, Lisa Hyper, Sheba, Gaza Indu, and Likkle Addi & Likkle Vybz – Representing the Gaza camp with an array of talent.

DJs Turning Up the Heat

The beats will be kept alive by top-tier DJs: Boom Boom, ZJ Chrome, DJ Franco, Brush1, Fyahman, Code Red, Ricky Platinum, and Chromatic. The night will be hosted by none other than Nuffy, ensuring nonstop vibes.

Event Details

Gates Open: 4 PM

Music Starts: 5 PM

Show Start: 8 PM

Vybz Kartel Performance: 10 PM – 1:30 AM

Fireworks: Midnight

Live Stream and Tickets

For fans globally, unable to attend in person, the event will be streamed live from 9:30 PM EST to 1:30 AM. Livestream tickets and on-site passes are available at FreedomStreetLive.com.

Park & Ride Information

Center Stage & POD Ticket Holders: Parking at the Stadium grounds.

Grandstand & Bleachers: Parking at Heroes Circle.

Infield: Parking at JC or 8 West Kings House Road.

Unmissable Experience

Vybz Kartel, speaking to the Jamaica Gleaner, described the event as “a world-class production,” comparing it to an upgraded NFL Super Bowl halftime show. “Trust me, it’s an experience you don’t want to miss. It will make Taylor Swift jealous,” Kartel said.

West Indies To Face Pakistan In New Year

News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Dec. 30, 2024: Cricket West Indies has announced the squad for the upcoming tour of Pakistan, where the team will play two Test matches from January 17 to January 29, 2025, at the Multan Cricket Stadium. This tour marks the West Indies’ first Test series in Pakistan in 18 years and serves as the concluding chapter of the current ICC World Test Championship cycle.

West Indies men’s team will face Pakistan in the New Year.

Historic Return to Pakistan

The series is set to reignite the rivalry between the two teams and holds historic significance as the West Indies play Test cricket on Pakistani soil for the first time since 2007. The squad, led by captain Kraigg Brathwaite, includes a mix of seasoned players and promising newcomers.

Left-handed batter Amir Jangoo, who recently made headlines with a match-winning century on his ODI debut against Bangladesh, has earned his maiden Test call-up. Additionally, spinner Gudakesh Motie returns to the squad after missing the recent drawn series against Bangladesh.

Coach’s Vision

Head Coach Andre Coley expressed optimism about the team’s potential, emphasizing a focus on growth and execution. “For the Test series against Pakistan in January 2025, the focus is on building on what we have done well and transforming the learnings from 2024 into tangible results,” Coley said.

He also highlighted the importance of Jangoo and Motie’s inclusion: “Motie rejoins the squad to bolster the spin attack, while Jangoo’s selection comes on the back of his consistency across formats in regional cricket, as well as his demonstrated high level of competency against spin bowling.”

Squad Adjustments

Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph will be unavailable due to other commitments, while Shamar Joseph continues to recover from injury. The team will leave the Caribbean on January 2 and is expected to arrive in Islamabad on January 6.

West Indies Test Squad for Pakistan

Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain)

Joshua Da Silva (Vice-Captain)

Alick Athanaze

Keacy Carty

Justin Greaves

Kavem Hodge

Tevin Imlach

Amir Jangoo

Mikyle Louis

Gudakesh Motie

Anderson Phillip

Kemar Roach

Kevin Sinclair

Jayden Seales

Jomel Warrican

This series presents a significant opportunity for the West Indies to close the World Test Championship cycle on a high note and showcase their continued development on the global stage.

Guyana Exposes False Tanker Registrations Linked to U.S. Sanctions

News Americas, New York, NY, December 30, 2024: Five tankers recently sanctioned by the United States as part of a global oil smuggling network are falsely claiming to be registered in Guyana, according to the country’s Maritime Administration Department. The agency called the registrations “false and fraudulent” and emphasized that Guyana’s shipping registry is tightly regulated.

U.S. Sanctions and Guyana’s Response

The vessels in question were among 13 ships sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) on November 14. These sanctions targeted entities linked to Syria’s Al-Qatirji Company, which is accused of facilitating the export of Iranian oil to Syria and East Asia, including China, and using the proceeds to fund Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force. The U.S. also alleges the company is involved in money laundering through cities such as Istanbul and Beirut.

Among the sanctioned vessels, four crude oil tankers and one product tanker claimed Guyana as their flag state. However, Guyana’s maritime authorities stated unequivocally that none of the vessels meet the criteria to be registered under its flag. The country’s closed registry is limited to vessels owned by Guyanese nationals, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) citizens, or corporations established under Guyanese law.

The Vessels Under Scrutiny

The tankers in question are:

Ramona I (164,445 dwt), built in 2002, reportedly owned by a company in Panama.

Mia (149,686 dwt), built in 1993, listed as owned and operated by a Seychelles-based company.

Lia (146,273 dwt), built in 1996, reportedly traced to a company in the Marshall Islands.

Chloe (159,539 dwt), built in 1999, with ownership details unidentified.

Baron (46,166 dwt), a product tanker built in 1995 and managed by a company in Lebanon but flagged as Daran in databases and listed under Iran.

Equasis, an international shipping database, flags the four crude oil tankers as using false flags.

Guyana’s Maritime Fraud Warnings

Guyana has been aware of fraudulent ship registrations since 2021 and has repeatedly warned about these incidents. In May 2024, the government identified unauthorized groups placing vessels on the registry without proper authorization. Officials confirmed that perpetrators of these schemes have also targeted countries like Panama and others in the region.

“The perpetrators of this fraud have targeted several countries including Guyana, Panama, and regional states,” said the Maritime Administration Department, adding that it has shared details with regional and international maritime associations.

Guyana’s Closed Registry Policy

Guyana emphasized that it does not operate a flag of convenience and maintains a strict ship registry to protect its sovereignty and maritime integrity. Authorities continue to take steps to prevent unauthorized vessel registrations and safeguard the nation’s maritime reputation.

Caribbean Recipe Of The Week – Stuffed Roast Fish

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY: As a meat and sea food lover  I will prepare the usual fare of chicken, turkey, pork, sausages, burgers, steak and various sea foods, such as grill shrimp, lobster and  roast stuff fish. I will jerk some and some I will grill after a simple marinade of oil, salt, black pepper and garlic.

I will also select a few starches like plantains and Irish and sweet potatoes and add several vegetables to the menu. For example, I will add egg plant, zucchini, asparagus, tomatoes, yellow squash, carrots, and sweet peppers. In addition I will add spinach and lettuce for a simply salad.

Today I will share with you my recipe For Stuffed Roast Fish on the grill.

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Stuffed Roast Fish

Stuffed roast fish on the grill is a flavorful, savory dish that’s perfect for outdoor cooking. Start by cleaning the fish with lemon juice and water, then marinate with salt, black pepper, onion, garlic, scallions, scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, and pimento seeds. Stuff the fish with this aromatic marinade along with cabbage and okra for added texture and flavor. Wrap the stuffed fish in aluminum foil or banana leaves, adding melted butter for richness. Grill over charcoal for 10-15 minutes, allowing the fish to roast to perfection with a tender, smoky flavor. This dish brings a deliciously unique twist to any grilling occasion!
Prep Time 1 hour hour
Cook Time 15 minutes minutes
Servings 4 People
Author NewsAmericas

Ingredients

2 Whole Jack Fish or 2 Whole Red Snapper1/2 lemon juice5 cups waterSaltBlack pepper to taste1 large onion minced2 cloves garlic minced4 stalks scallion minced1 small scotch bonnet pepper minced )2 sprigs thyme4 whole pimento seeds4 tablespoons butter2 cups cabbage chopped6 whole okra (chopped)2 pieces aluminum foil or banana leaf

Instructions

Clean fish with a mixture of lemon juice and water.
2 Whole Jack Fish or 2 Whole Red Snapper, 1/2 lemon juice, 5 cups water
Marinate fish for one hour with salt, black pepper onion, garlic, scallion, scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, pimento seeds and  2 tables spoon of melted  butter.
Salt, Black pepper to taste, 1 large onion, 2 cloves garlic, 4 stalks scallion, 1 small scotch bonnet pepper minced ), 2 sprigs thyme, 4 whole pimento seeds, 4 tablespoons butter
Stuff  the marinade  into the cavity/ belly of each fish. Add cabbage and  okra.
2 cups cabbage, 6 whole okra
Place each fish in the center of the aluminum foil or banana leaf.
2 pieces aluminum foil or banana leaf
Add remaining butter, then wrap the fish securely.
4 tablespoons butter
Place on heated charcoal grill and leave to roast for 10-15 minutes.

Grilled stuffed fish is a delightful and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress at any cookout or gathering. The combination of fresh herbs, spicy scotch bonnet, and the richness of butter and vegetables creates a mouthwatering filling, while the grilling adds a smoky depth to the fish. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or trying it for the first time, this recipe is simple yet full of taste. Serve it up with your favorite sides, and enjoy a delicious, aromatic meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

Bon Appetite!

By Minna LaFortune

EDITOR’S NOTE: Minna LaFortune is a trained Caribbean caterer and also president of the  Society for the Advancement of the Caribbean Diaspora (SACD). Check out her food group on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/bestfoodscaribbean/

Caribbean Recipe Of The Week – Pernil

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY: Most Caribbean nationals love pork. We stew it (Pernil), roast it, fry it and Jerk it! It is served as a main course or an appetizer.

Because pork is considered a white meat, it is often favored over red meat. The method of cooking though is largely decided by ethnicity. For example, if you are French as in Haitian, the pork meat will be stewed and then fried while if you are Spanish as in Cuban, Puerto Rican  or Dominican Republican,  the preferred method of cooking  pork is roasting.

Most other Caribbean national will stew, curry or jerk the pork. When pork is prepared by the Haitian method it is called Griot; when pork shoulder is prepared by the Spanish Caribbean method it called Pernil!

Today I will share my recipe for Pernil.

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Pernil – Roasted Pork Shoulder

Pernil, a succulent roasted pork shoulder, is a staple in many Latin American cuisines, known for its rich flavor and tender texture. This dish starts with a marinade of garlic, oregano, black pepper, olive oil, vinegar, and salt, which infuses the pork with bold, savory flavors. After marinating overnight, the pork is slow-roasted to perfection, with the skin crisped to create irresistible chicharrón. Perfect for celebrations or a hearty family meal, Pernil is a showstopper that highlights the beauty of simple, well-balanced ingredients.
Course Main Course
Cuisine #caribbean
Keyword Pernil
Prep Time 8 hours hours
Cook Time 6 hours hours
Servings 8 People

Ingredients

8 lbs picnic pork shoulder12 minced garlic cloves4 teaspoons dried oregano5 teaspoons black pepper3 tablespoons olive oil3 tablespoons white vinegar8 teaspoons salt

Instructions

Wash the pork shoulder thoroughly with vinegar.
8 lbs picnic pork shoulder, 3 tablespoons white vinegar
With a sharp knife, make 1 inch deep cuts into the pork.
With mortar and pestle, crush garlic, oregano and black pepper together. Add olive oil, vinegar and salt. Mix well.
12 minced garlic cloves, 4 teaspoons dried oregano, 5 teaspoons black pepper, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 3 tablespoons white vinegar, 8 teaspoons salt
Spoon some of the garlic mixture inside the small cuts around the pork, and spread remaining mixture all over the pork.
Place pork in an aluminum turkey pan (skin side up); cover with aluminum foil tightly. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
Bake in pre-heated 325 degree Fahrenheit oven for about 5 to 6 hours.
Remove aluminum foil and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for another hour or until skin is crisp. Closely watch this so you don’t burn the skin (chicharrone). Pork should be well-done and tender.

Bon Appetite

By Minna LaFortune

EDITOR’S NOTE: Minna LaFortune is a trained Caribbean caterer and also president of the  Society for the Advancement of the Caribbean Diaspora (SACD). Check out her food group on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/bestfoodscaribbean/

Ten Things to Know About Desi Bouterse, The Late Former President and Fugitive of Suriname

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Dec. 27, 2024: Desi Bouterse, a polarizing figure in Suriname’s history and its former President, left behind a legacy marked by dictatorship, populism, and controversy. Here are ten things to know about him in his death:

FLASHBACK: Suriname’s former president (2010-2020) Desi Bouterse walks next to a body guard while leaving the High Court of Justice after a hearing in his appeals case in the December 8, 1982 murders, in Paramaribo on January 31, 2023. – Suriname’s public prosecutor’s office reaffirmed its request for a 20-year prison sentence for Bouterse if the sentence against him for the execution of 15 opponents in 1982 is upheld. Attorney General Carmen Rasam also formally requested Bouterse’s imprisonment if the sentence is confirmed. (Photo by Ranu Abhelakh / AFP) (Photo by RANU ABHELAKH/AFP via Getty Images)Desi Bouterse walks next to a body guard while leaving the High Court of Justice after a hearing in his appeals case in the December 8, 1982 murders, in Paramaribo on January 31, 2023. – Suriname’s public prosecutor’s office reaffirmed its request for a 20-year prison sentence for Bouterse if the sentence against him for the execution of 15 opponents in 1982 is upheld. Attorney General Carmen Rasam also formally requested Bouterse’s imprisonment if the sentence is confirmed. (Photo by Ranu Abhelakh / AFP) (Photo by RANU ABHELAKH/AFP via Getty Images)

Military Coup Leader: Desi Bouterse, was born in Domburg, Suriname. Bouterse was born into a multiracial family of Amerindian, African, Dutch, French, and Chinese descent. Raised by his aunt in Paramaribo after moving from Domburg, he attended local schools but did not complete his education. In 1968, he moved to the Netherlands, joined the Dutch armed forces, and trained as a non-commissioned officer. A skilled athlete, he captained a basketball team during his training.

In 1970, he married Ingrid Figueira, his teenage sweetheart from Suriname, and they had two children, Peggy and Dino. Following his military service, he was stationed in Germany before returning to Suriname with his family in 1975 after the country’s independence. He aimed to contribute to building the Surinamese army and became chairman of a new military union in 1979, setting the stage for his rise to power.

On February 25, 1980, Desi Bouterse, along with Roy Horb and fourteen other sergeants, orchestrated the “Sergeants Coup,” overthrowing the Henck Arron government. Known as the Groep van zestien (Group of Sixteen), they installed Bouterse as the chairman of the National Military Council, making him the de facto dictator of Suriname. From 1980 to 1988, he held power through puppet presidents he controlled.

The coup, initially popular among citizens, was justified as a fight against corruption and unemployment. However, historian Rosemarijn Hoefte noted the lack of clear political or ideological planning behind it. On the day of the coup, Bouterse’s forces burned down the Central Police Station, now a “Monument of the Revolution,” commemorated annually on February 25.

The military regime imposed strict curfews, curtailed press freedoms, and, by 1985, banned political parties while heavily censoring public assembly. The dictatorship was marked by corruption and brutality, including the 1982 December Murders of 15 political opponents, which led to the closure of the University of Suriname.

Though Bouterse forged ties with Cuba, North Korea, and the Soviet Union, his regime avoided Communist ideology. Relations with the Netherlands soured, leading to a suspension of aid and deepening economic crises, worsened by falling bauxite prices. Rising instability and uprisings ultimately challenged his grip on power.

Infamous “December Murders”: In 1982, he ordered the torture and execution of 15 political dissidents, including journalists, academics, and lawyers. This event traumatized Suriname and strained its international relations.

Civil War Instigator: His rule sparked a guerrilla war led by his former bodyguard, Ronnie Brunswijk, resulting in a bloody civil conflict that ended his dictatorship.

Transition to Democracy: Suriname returned to civilian rule in 1988, but Bouterse remained influential, leading the National Democratic Party (NDP).

Convicted Drug Trafficker: In 1999, Bouterse was convicted in absentia by a Dutch court for cocaine trafficking.

Populist President: Despite his past, Bouterse became Suriname’s president in 2010 and was re-elected in 2015, using populist rhetoric to gain support.

Institutional Changes: As president, he shifted alliances away from the Netherlands toward China and Venezuela, while appointing family members to government positions.

Murder Conviction: In 2019, he was convicted for his role in the December Murders and sentenced to 20 years in prison, a decision upheld in 2023.

Fugitive Status: In January 2024, instead of surrendering to authorities, Bouterse went into hiding, evading his prison sentence.

Death at 79: Bouterse died on December 24, 2024, as a divisive figure, remembered as both a national hero and a brutal dictator.

Caribbean Recipe – Oven Roasted Jerk Pork Leg

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY: Recently I was asked to do jerk pork for some of my friends at work. I bought a pork leg and prepared the pork with the necessary seasonings and allowed it to marinate for one week in the refrigerator and the freezer.

When I was ready to put it on the grill after thawing it to room temperature , it started to rain heavily . I decided to roast the leg in the oven. The result was delicious!

Below is the recipe for Oven Roasted Jerk Pork Leg.

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Oven Roasted Jerk Pork Leg

To prepare oven-roasted jerk pork leg, core the pork leg and rub it with wet jerk seasoning, dry jerk seasoning, garlic powder, apple cider vinegar, and pimento seeds. Marinate in the refrigerator for one week. Before roasting, bring the pork to room temperature. Roast in a 375°F oven for 3-4 hours, basting regularly with jerk seasoning. Once cooked, slice the leg and serve with jerk sauce, rice and peas, or ground provisions and dumplings.
Course Main Course
Cuisine #caribbean
Keyword Jerk Pork Leg
Prep Time 7 days days
Cook Time 4 hours hours
Servings 10 People

Ingredients

A 10 lb Pork Leg2 bottles wet jerk seasonings1/2 bottles dry jerk seasonings2 tbs garlic powder1/4 cup apple cider vinegarPimento seeds

Instructions

Core pork leg with a sharp knife.
A 10 lb Pork Leg
Rub all the seasonings on the whole leg.
2 bottles wet jerk seasonings, 1/2 bottles dry jerk seasonings, 2 tbs garlic powder, Pimento seeds
Marinate for one week in the refrigerator.
To roast pork leg , allow leg to thaw to room temperature .
Set oven to 375 degrees
Put leg in oven and roast for 3-4 hours.
Use jerk seasonings to base pork throughout cooking process.
When fully cooked, slice the leg and use jerk sauce to accompany each slice.

Notes

Serve with rice and peas or ground provision and dumplings.

Bon Appetite!

By Minna LaFortune

EDITOR’S NOTE: Minna LaFortune is a trained Caribbean caterer and also president of the  Society for the Advancement of the Caribbean Diaspora (SACD). Check out her food group on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/bestfood scaribbean/