Aying's Homemade Pastillas: A Taste of Home

October 29, 2014

When talking about Pastillas, Aying's Homemade Pastillas is the only brand that comes to my mind. This brand is my most favorite of all because its sweet treats are made from pure carabao's milk. Not only that, it's closest to my heart because it's one of the pride of Nueva Ecija, the province where I grew up.

Whenever I taste Aying's, recollections of my fond memories of my province go back.

Aying's was introduced to us in the late 90's by a family friend and we never considered other brands ever since.

Our family lives in Metro Manila for almost 15 years and I've been missing Aying's since we seldom visit Nueva Ecija.

Just recently, I had a chance to exchange messages with the owner, Mr. Aying Vinas, and had a privilege to create souvenirs for him. It was such an honor and I couldn't imagine that someday I would do that for one of my most favorite brands.

When I had my first meet-up with him and his wonderful family, I was so elated because aside from my order, he gave me more goodies which I haven't tasted before.

You have no idea how happy I was when I got these treats!

Let me show you one by one Aying's best selling products.

This is how the box of Aying's Homemade Pastillas looks like. It's made of clean, hard, and colorful carton where all neccessary details about the brand can be seen- contact, logo, nutrition facts, and partnership with Department of Science and Technology (DOST). By just merely looking at the box, you can literally drool! It can store 30 pieces of pastillas.

The Original Pastillas is my mom and hubby's favorite.

The box of Assorted Pastillas is always a hit to my two kids and I.

The Assorted Pastillas' flavors are Toasted, Pastillas de Leche (Original), Ube, Special Yema, Buko de Pandan, Caramel, Langka, Queso, and Malunggay.

Look how colorful the pastillas are! In one box you can have a taste of everything!

Take a closer look at the pastillas flavors.

Special Yema, Malunggay, Original, and Buko de Pandan

Toasted, Langka, Queso, and Ube

Malunggay and Less Sugar Pastillas are now available for health conscious clients which become my favorites too.

Malunggay Pastillas is so yummy and there is a little hint of Malunggay taste. My picky eater kids liked this for the first time they tasted it. The flavor of Malunggay was completely concealed by milk and sugar.

I'm currently watching my sugar intake and this is the best alternative for a sweet tooth and pastillas lover that I am.

Aside from the big box, this pouch that contains one dozen Pastillas is also available.

This small pouch is highly recommended for budget conscious clients.

If you are counting your calorie intake, no need to worry! You may read the nutrition facts on the label.

Pastillas Balls are a few of Aying's latest innovations. These Cashew Pastillas Balls are so yummy and milky! Cashew balances the sweetness of pastillas.

You can see that these pastillas balls are generously filled with cashew nuts. Once you start munching, you can't stop!

There are also Assorted Pastillas Balls in a tub. The variants are Plain, Coffee, and Cashew. Kuya loves the plain while Mom loves the Coffee flavor.

The Pastillas Balls are so big but you can't get enough once you started eating them.

These are the things that I like most about Aying's Homemade Pastillas:

- made from pure carabao's milk
- big serving compared to other pastillas that I tasted
- made from high quality and natural ingredients
- more flavors to choose from
- yummy, milky, and rich-tasting
- neat and nice packaging with nutrition facts
- clean preparation
- partnership with DOST
- excellent customer service
- humble, friendly, and kind proprietors

Recommendation:

We find the Coffee Pastillas Balls too strong. We hope to taste a more subtle version.

I learned that Aying's is currently concocting different spreads and Pastillas Smoothies. I can't wait to visit its store and try them. Surely they taste great like the Pastillas!

I know that you are curious why I love Aying's so much. I invite you to visit and like Aying's Pastillas on Facebook and feast your eyes on its delicious goodies!

Aying's have two branches in Nueva Ecija:

Main Office : SAN FERNADO SUR, CABIAO, NUEVA ECIJA

Landline: (044) 486-2153

Mobile: 0915-8721175 | 0922-4961158 | 0918-4487936

Branch: BUCANA, GAPAN CITY

Landline: (044) 486-9825

Mobile: 0917-200430 | 0932-9668133 | 0919-6113730

E-mail: ayingspastillas1995@gmail.com

For Metro Manila clients, meet-ups can be done in Taft Avenue, near De La Salle University. You may contact Aying's on the numbers stated above.

You may also purchase Aying's Homemade Pastillas in SM Megamall and SM Aura.

Next time I will blog about the humble beginnings of the company. I'll visit Aying's new store and cooking area and will not miss the opportunity to do an interview with Mr. and Mrs. Vinas.

Thank you, Mr. Aying Vinas and family, for the invite! I hope to see you soon!

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LOVEHOPEFAITH: A Pinoy Enterprise with a Heart

October 28, 2014

When a family member gets sick, all family members are affected. It's emotionally, spiritually, physically, and financially draining especially when frequent hospital admissions, and too many prescribed medications and supplies are needed to sustain the needs of the sick family member. It's more difficult if the bread winner is the one who's afflicted with the disease. The situation becomes worse when the disease is as dreaded as cancer.

Sometimes the situation is very depressing especially when no one's there to lend a helping hand. But here in the Philippines, no matter how hard the situation is, each person is ready to help in his or her own special way.

We are also blessed that there are institutions, organizations, or companies like LOVEHOPEFAITH (LHF) who find ways to help.

Let me give you a backgrounder of what LOVEHOPEFAITH is including the frequently asked questions about the it:

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LOVEHOPEFAITH (LHF) is an all-Filipino social enterprise that was founded as an instrument to provide care and assistance to a cancer patient. As the business grew, LHF was able to add non-profit institutions to its list of beneficiaries. Fifty percent of the net proceeds from the purchases of LHF products are donated to its causes.

LHF aims to give joy and hope through a cause-oriented enterprise by providing quality products to Filipinos and giving back to the community. LHF aspires to be an inspiration and a channel to empower cancer patients and the communities they aid. The LHF family envisions being a model group that cares, unites, provides equal opportunities, and works hard for the betterment of everyone.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

*What products do you sell?

We are selling gift items such as the Life Saver Watch, Life Saver Shirt, Life Saver Bag, and the Chocolate Library.

*What color and sizes are available? How much?

• Life Saver Watch (big) Php200.00 each – Colors: Red, Blue, Light Blue, Green, White, Turquoise, Purple, Black, Gray, Light Pink, Brown, Pink, Navy Blue

• Life Saver Watch (small) Php200.00 each – Colors: Red, Blue, Light Blue, Green, White, Turquoise, Purple, Black, Gray, Light Pink, Brown, Pink

• Life Saver Shirt Php300.00 each – Color white; Sizes: 2XS,XS,S,M,L,XL,2XL,3XL

• Chocolate Library Php50.00 each – Small size; Variants: Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, White Chocolate

• Life Saver Bag Php250.00 each – Color: Black

Click THIS for more photos.

*Where can I buy your products?

We conduct bazaars across Metro Manila and annouce them on our Facebook page. You may also order from us through text and have the items shipped to your address.

NOTE: For orders thru text, we require:

1) a minimum order of 5 pieces of watch (worth Php1,000.00)

2) or a combination of products (e.g. watch and shirt) with a minimum worth of Php1,000.00

*Where’s your store (physical)? Where can we find you?

• We don't have a physical store, however we have a display area at LG 10 Cityland 10 Tower 1, H.V. Dela Costa Street Makati City (Name of Store: Mastercraft Copying and Printing Inc.)

*How do I order?

• Send us an SMS using the format:
o NAME:
o ORDER: include item, size, colors/variant, and quantity
• Send your text messages to 0917.8884516 and 09228740334

*Do you ship?

• Yes, client shall shoulder the shipping and handling costs.

• Client shall send his/her orders thru text including shipping address. We will give the details and procedure for payment once orders are placed.

• Shipping cost is free of charge for Metro Manila address.

• For provincial, shipping fee starts at Php100.00. We have an ongoing promo, if your order is worth of at least Php2,000.00, we will waive the shipping fee.

*What are your modes of payment?

• Bank deposit for orders with shipping

*Do you accept return of items?

Yes. Please contact our numbers for more information.

*Who are the beneficiaries of LHF?

• Jocelyn Joy Meneses - Cancer Patient

• Tahanan Sta. Luisa – crisis intervention for street children http://tahananstaluisa.hope.org.ph/

*We would like to invite you for a bazaar, how can we contact you?

Contact us through our numbers 0917.8884516 and 09228740334, send us an email at lovehopefaith.group@gmail.com, or message us in our Facebook page.

*Contact Us

LG 10 Cityland 10 Tower 1, H.V. Dela Costa Street Makati City (Name of Store: Mastercraft Copying and Printing Inc.)

Contact us through our numbers 0917.8884516 and 09228740334send us an email at lovehopefaith.group@gmail.com, or message us in our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/lovehopefaith.group

*My son is a cancer patient; can we apply as one of your beneficiaries?

At the moment we are streamlining our processes in identifying additional beneficiaries. You can, however, send us your contact details for future reference.

*What is the email address of LoveHopeFaith?

lovehopefaith.group@gmail.com

Sources: http://lovehopefaithgroup.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/notes/lovehopefaith/faqs-frequently-asked-questions/290828847769570

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If you are still thinking of memorable gifts to give your friends and loved-ones this Christmas, isn't it nice to purchase from LOVEHOPEFAITH? You can make someone happy at the same time touch the lives of the company's beneficiaries.

The recipient of your gifts will be glad because somehow they will be part of your eagerness to help. You will also be able to spread the word about LOVEHOPEFAITH and many people will have a chance to purchase and help too.

This November, you may catch LOVEHOPEFAITH on the following bazaars:

I am planning to buy shirts, chocolates, and this watch when I visit its booth and become a life saver myself.

“No one has ever become poor by giving.”
- Anne Frank, Diary of Anne Frank

Photo Credits: LoveHopeFaith Facebook Page

My Version of Jolly Fettuccine A La Carbonara

October 27, 2014

On October 18, 2014, Mommy Bloggers Philippines had its first get together/Halloween Party. All mommies and kids who attended were blessed with Fly Ace Corporation's generosity. Each family had a chance to bring home its high quality products. For me, cooking savory dishes using them became more and more exciting!

Since all ingredients were complete and Kuya was home due to the start of semestral break, I decided to cook Jolly Fettuccine A La Carbonara as seen at the label of Jolly Mushroom's can. It was my first time to cook this because usually I cook Tuna White Pasta. Kuya, Bunso, and Hubby loved it! I also got a good feedback from Mom who was not a big fan of spaghetti or fettuccine. I was so happy and it made my day complete!

Here is how to do it:

JOLLY FETTUCCINE A LA CARBONARA

Ingredients

500 grams Al Dente Fettuccine, cooked

2 Tablespoon (30 grams) butter

150 grams bacon

1 piece (50 grams) white onion, chopped

1 can (400 grams) JOLLY Whole Mushrooms, sliced

1 cup JOLLY COW FRESH MILK

1 can (298 grams) JOLLY Cream of Mushroom Soup

½ teaspoon (2.5 grams) salt, iodized

¼ teaspoon (1 gram) black pepper, ground

¼ teaspoon (1.2 grams) ground nutmeg

3 Tablespoon (45 grams) grated parmesan cheese

Procedure

1. Heat pan and sweat bacon, onions and Jolly Whole Mushrooms in butter until cooked.

2. Pour in Jolly Cow Fresh Milk and Jolly Cream of Mushroom Soup.

3. Stir well until there are no more lumps. Simmer until the sauce thickens.

4. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

5. Toss in Al Dente Fettuccine pasta and top with parmesan cheese.

Yield: 5 – 6 servings

My Version

I followed the cooking procedure except putting salt, nutmeg, and parmesan cheese. I substituted parmesan with grated cheddar cheese (approximately 100 grams or 3/4 of 165 gram bar of cheese) and incorporated it with the sauce. Instead of only 1 cup of milk, I used 250 ml. I also added 250 ml all-purpose cream and 50 grams bacon to make the dish creamier and tastier.

Here is the finished product! According to my family, it was so yummy and "malinamnam".

Try it, Mommies! I would love to know your feedback! Use only Jolly products to make the finished product taste yummier!

By the way, here's the link to an informative article by Culinary Arts Expert, Danilo Alfaro, about the definition of the word AL DENTE: http://culinaryarts.about.com/od/glossary/g/Al-Dente.htm.

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About Jolly Eats

Each Jolly product is packed with pure goodness that the whole family will surely enjoy!

Jolly is the number 1 mushroom brand in the country. It is known for its consistent quality and a wide variety of mushroom cuts such as Whole Mushrooms, Pieces and Stems, Premium Sliced Mushrooms, and Shiitake Mushrooms. Another popular product under the Jolly brand is Jolly Cream of Mushroom. Sourced from the US and made from the finest ingredients, Jolly Cream of Mushroom is sure to add excitement to your pasta and other culinary dishes. You can also enjoy it simply as a soup.

Other Jolly products include Jolly Corn, Jolly Green Peas, Jolly Salted Black Beans, Jolly Asparagus Cut and Spears, Jolly Straw Mushrooms, Jolly Water Chestnut Peeled, Jolly Red Pimiento, Jolly Garbanzos, Jolly Tomato Paste, Jolly Lychees, Jolly Mandarin Oranges, Jolly Peach Halves, Jolly Grass Jelly, Jolly Maraschino Cherries, and Jolly Fruit Cocktail.

Like Jolly's Facebook Page

About Good Life

“Enjoy Good Taste with Good Life”

Good Life Products bring out the authentic taste and flavor of your favorite Asian-inspired dishes. Take your pick from the Good Life Noodle selection. Good Life Premium First Class Vermicelli is made from premium potato starch, thus it is firm to the bite, shiny and crystal-like. Good Life Egg Noodles is the better choice of Pancit Canton. It is made from wheat flour and eggs and is steam-dried, not fried that’s why it is healthier! Plus, it yields more than the ordinary canton noodles. Lastly, Good Life Bihon is a staple for well-loved Filipino celebrations. Other Good Life products include Bread Crumbs, Oyster Sauce and Sesame oil. Good Life is available in major supermarkets and convenience stores nationwide. Like Good Life's Facebook Page

About Fly Ace Corporation

Fly Ace Corporation is one of the leading food and beverage consumer goods companies in the country today. Propelling limitless multiple-category growth by bringing the best of the world closer to Filipino homes, Fly Ace Corporation’s portfolio of food and beverage products includes house brands and exclusively distributed brands. Learn more at www.flyacecorp.com.

Brickfire: Not Your Ordinary Steak House

October 26, 2014

I heard raves about Brickfire's steaks that led me to visit its Facebook Page. By merely looking at the food photos, I started drooling!

According to a blogger friend, Brickfire is a budget-friendly steakhouse. The Duke and Cowgirl Annie, Brickfire's flagship dishes, are generous cuts of tender local beef classically seasoned with salt and pepper.

Well, serving great-tasting but affordable steaks is not what makes Brickfire being your typical budget steakhouse. It becomes so much more.

Brickfire's steaks are not being grilled. They are baked in a Brickfire oven, keeping the steaks tender and sealing in the flavorful juices. This is the key to that irresistible beefy taste which is often found lacking in thinly cut, char-grilled steaks.

Brickfire doesn’t just stop on that purpose alone. It takes further steps into the diverse art of preparing steaks by offering two additional playful flavors: Honey Mustard and Wasabi. The Honey Mustard steaks are made with the famous Filipino sweet tooth in mind and are nice alternative to the traditional salt and pepper flavor. Hmmm...Interesting!

Aside from scrumptious steaks, Brickfire serves great tasting pasta dishes, soups, appetizers, and desserts that makes dining experience all worth it!

Pesto Pasta

French Onion Soup

Appetizer- Broccoli Tex-Mex

Dessert- Crepe Samurai

I can't wait to visit any of these two branches to satisfy my craving and curiosity!

*Brickfire Katipunan
41 2/F Xavier Residence Bldg., cor. R. Alvero and E.Abada St., Loyola Heights, Quezon City Tel. No. : (02) 426 2254
Mobile No. : +63 917 354 7318

*Brickfire SM North Edsa
Upper Ground Floor - Annex
Tel. No. : (02) 441 4464
Mobile No. : +63 927 523 1130