While others are crazy for ibos (suman) partenred with ripe mango or a hot cup of tsokolate, I grew up having it simply partnered with kalamay nga pula (muscovado sugar).The subtle flavour of the sticky rice cooked in coconut milk is greatly complemented by the "healthier" sweetness of the molasses sugar that you'll keep eating on and on until you realized you've eaten more than enough. When was the last time you had this native dessert combo?
A stones throw away from the plaza of La Villa de Arevalo is an ancestral house where one can find not only good pasalubong items but also a look into the past of the district. Known as the Sinamay House , this well preserved ancestral house is an attraction not only in the outside but also what it houses inside. A collection of what the past like is housed in the two storey edifice which also acts like a museum of sorts. Sinamay is simply known as abaca by most and, here, a variety of products made from this fiber can be found. I remember watching a feature on tv wherein the owner proudly showed a framed letter signed by the late Princess of Wales, Diana, showing her appreciation of the handkerchief she was given as a gift coming from this very shop. But the attraction I am most familiar with are the chewies and crunchies made by Mama's Kitchen. Attractively packed in boxes showing their current flavours and variety, this is among the better...