For many Christians around the world, Lent is a special time of fasting, repentance, sacrifice and prayer. This special time beings on Ash Wednesday, and lasts for 40 days (not including Sundays). Quality time is spent reflecting on the life and death of Jesus in order to prepare for the celebration of Easter.

In Trinidad, we remember this as a very somber time. It’s the time of year in which we don’t sing Soca or Calypso, don’t party as much, or at all. Going to church was a must (even if you objected, you dare not say it). Holy Week was plenty church, and watching all the re enactments of the crucifixion was something that was looked forward to.

Oh, and who can forget our own revenge on Judas for his betrayal…the Bobolee. Watching the neighbourhood children run with sticks to beat this thing was a sight. Sometimes even the adults getting in on the action. These are the traditions we grew with, remember, and hope to keep passing down to our future generations.



Hot Cross Buns

What you'll need

• 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup mixed fruit
• 1/3 cup currants
• 1 pack instant yeast (about 8g)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar (granulated)
• 1/4 cup golden brown sugar
• teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground clove (optional)
• 5 tablespoon butter (melted)
• 1 cup milk (warm)

For the egg wash:

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk

For the frosting:

• 1/2 cup powder sugar (icing sugar)
• tablespoon milk

(http://caribbeanpot.com) for prep instructions