burning koala

Angela had promised both Manuel and Kurt to make a Cuban dinner. Neither had been fortunate enough to sample some of her wonderful mojo sauce. So to prepare for a feast with David, Manuel, Kurt, and his wife Jill, we went out to Paddy’s Market to pick up some limes and such. Since it was close to Christmas, Angela prepared her “Noche Beuna”, but sadly without the requisite plantains. Just can’t seem to find them here in the city.

Picking up some fruit and vegetables from Paddy’s Market

After getting all the fruits and vegetables we stopped by the nut stand to get some cashews and peanuts. It was quite busy and reminded me of a street bazaar.

Selling nuts and dried fruit by the kilo

We headed back to the flat and cleaned up and started dinner (well, I did some cleaning, but Angela did all the cooking and cleaned to boot). Things started to get behind and we were lucky that everyone was somewhat fashionably late. Just as things were finishing up, our guests arrived. We sat down and had drinks and everyone dug into the home made salsa that Angela had thrown together. Kurt enjoyed it very much and was quick to say so. While they enjoyed the food and conversation, I annoyed everyone by taking lots of pictures.

David and Manuel

Kurt in thoughtful repose

While everyone was chatting and we discussed the Bogong moths and their apparent limitless size, Angela continued to prepare the main meal. All the aromas that emanated from the kitchen were wonderful. She prepared Marinated Pork in Mojo, Arroz Con Pollo, and a Watercress Salad with Mojo Dressing.

Ingredients for dinner

Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken with rice)

Marinated Pork in Mojo Sauce

Dinner was served and we all enjoyed our Cuban meal. The pork was wonderful, as was the Chicken. The heavy garlic mojo sauce was tasty, if not problematic for anyone we might bump into later in the evening. Conversation was varied and intense and everyone had a lot to say on each topic in turn.

Dinner and conversation

Manuel with the famous “Mojo” sauce