by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 19, 2021 | Food & Beverage
In the world of non-alcoholic carbonated beverages, root beer holds a special place in our hearts. This bubbly, sweet bliss is reminiscent of our summer days, especially when it is served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, turning it into that nostalgic sweet treat – the root beer float.
The man who gifted us with this creation is the late Frank. J. Wisner, owner of Colorado’s Cripple Creek Brewing. It is believed that Wisner came up with the idea while mountain gazing but missing the snow-covered peaks. He then thought of making his own icy mountain top with a mug of root beer as the mountain and scoops of vanilla ice cream as snow caps. He initially called this the “Black Cow Mountain.”
Every year in August, we celebrate this dessert masterpiece with the National Root Beer Float Day. In the U.S., this is often celebrated with festivals and competitions. In the Philippines, even amid a pandemic and quarantine restrictions, we can celebrate this day at home by making different versions of this foamy and fizzy drink.
The staple, of course, is root beer. One of the brands available in the local market is Mug Root Beer, a product of Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) —the country’s exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages.
Get creative
Other than the classic root beer and vanilla ice cream float recipe, the food website, Sugar and Soul, shared other creative ways to make it.
“The Chocoholic”
- Prepare a syrup-rimmed glass rolled in sprinkles
- Pour root beer
- Add scoops of ice cream but swap vanilla for chocolate ice cream
- Top with whipped cream and drizzle with chocolate syrup
“The Very Vanilla”
- Highlight the vanilla flavor by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the root beer
- Finish it off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—and now you’re in vanilla, milky heaven
“The Slushie”
- Simply combine vanilla ice cream, root beer, and ice in a blender
- Blend until it reaches smoothie texture
- Top with whipped cream and cherries
These root beer float recipes will definitely be fun to create while we are on home quarantine.
“Everything about Mug root beer appeals to the senses: the rich foam, the unique aroma, and the feeling of ice-cold refreshment. It’s the perfect drink for the whole family,” said Frederick D. Ong, PCPPI president, and chief executive officer.
So now, we raise our mugs and toast to the bubbliest, fizziest, milky drink … the Root Beer Float!
Mug Root Beer is available in 300ml cans, 1.5L PET, and 2L PET in supermarkets, groceries, and convenience stores. PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of well-known beverage brands in the Philippines: Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Tropicana, Lipton, Sting, Premier, Milkis, and Aquafina.
About Pepsi Philippines
Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages & snacks in the Philippines, with a relationship spanning 70 years. PCPPI is a listed company in the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE: PIP) with Lotte Corporation, a holding company of Lotte Chilsung Beverage, one of the biggest beverage companies in South Korea as the lead shareholder co-managing with PepsiCo.
PCPPI manufactures and sells well-known food and beverage brands: Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Tropicana, Lipton, Sting, Premier, Sips, Milkis, Let’s Be, and Aquafina. It has established 14 manufacturing facilities across the country, serving more than 700,000 outlets and providing employment through its extensive distribution network.
PCPPI is committed to creating a positive impact on society with programs focused on environmental sustainability, nutrition, education, and livelihood. For more information, visit www.pepsiphilippines.com.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 13, 2021 | Food & Beverage
At a time when we are mostly apart, the bonds among family members and loved ones are more important than ever. And we can show them we care with thoughtful gifts when our presence just can’t be assured.
The coming Mooncake Festival on September 21 marks the end of the autumn harvest and it is traditionally a time to give thanks to the gods. As we adopt certain aspects of the Chinese culture, it has become symbolic and synonymous with expressing gratitude — something we can and should all do despite the challenges that have beset us since last year. Along with gratitude, the upcoming celebration also focuses on prayers and togetherness.
The Manila Hotel helps you plan for gifts for your loved ones to show them how much they mean to you. The special, hand-crafted mooncakes make the perfect gifts this season, and you can get them at a discounted rate when you order from now until August 20, 2021. The Early Bird promo gives buyers 30% off for purchases of Solo Boxes (PhP288 net) or Boxes of Four (PhP1,188 net) with no minimum order. They come in beautiful boxes that can be straight-away given out as gifts.
The hand-crafted mooncakes by the hotel’s premiere Chinese chef come in four flavors: the classic Single Yolk Ted Bean Paste, and Single Yolk Pure White Lotus Seed Paste; and the special flavors Taro Paste, and Red Dates Paste. The mooncakes can then be picked up after the promo period when the hotel is back in operations.
For more information or to pre-order, call 85270011 or 0998-9501912. The promo cannot be availed of in conjunction with other promos and government-mandated discounts like Senior Citizen and PWD discounts, among others.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 6, 2021 | Food & Beverage
Going out on solo trips, dates, or gimmicks may be rare because of community quarantine restrictions. But if there is a chance, why not indulge in some “me time” or spend time with friends over a delicious meal and private tour at Palacio de Memoria, the beautiful, fully restored pre-war mansion located right at the heart of Metro Manila? Now is the perfect time to visit as Palacio de Memoria is offering a special “Tour & Dine” promo.
Chef Margarita Fores
Through the promo, guests will get to enjoy a taste of appetizing Italian cuisine at The Loggia, the new restaurant by Asia’s Best Female Chef by Margarita Forés, after which you can enjoy a tour of The Palacio where you also get to appreciate the arts, religion, and rich history.
Camille Lhuillier-Albani
“While spending time at home has become the new normal for many, we encourage them to try our tour and food at The Loggia. They can dine al fresco and safely and immerse themselves in our rich culture with a private tour of the grounds,” said Camille Lhuillier-Albani, Palacio de Memoria general manager.
Promo packages start at ₱750 and include The Palacio tour, as well as refreshing iced tea and Tramezzini prosciutto with tomato and basil. There are also packages priced at ₱1,000, and ₱1,500 which includes additional dishes from The Loggia. If you’re going with family, friends, or out-of-towners, Palacio is also offering a package for a group of 10 people at ₱10,000.
Located along Roxas Boulevard in Parañaque City, Palacio de Memoria has stood the test of time. The picturesque mansion was restored by the Lhuillier family, who is committed to showcasing the Filipino culture, arts, and history.
The Museum at Palacio de Memoria
Visitors will also get a chance to capture Instagram-worthy moments in amenities such as the Red Room, the Front and Back Garden, and the Mosphil Lounge, a retrofitted plane for events.
If you’re looking for some respite from the pandemic, visit Palacio de Memoria and avail yourself of the “Tour & Dine” promo.
To help ensure the health and safety of everyone, Palacio de Memoria strictly implements safety protocols. For more information, visit https://www.palaciodememoria.com or follow @thepalaciodememoria on Facebook and @palacio.de.memoria on Instagram.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | May 22, 2021 | Food & Beverage
For the second consecutive summer, Filipinos are spending their time indoors at home due to the pandemic. Many of us have found creative ways to have fun and beat the summer heat, such as setting up inflatable pools, enjoying time with family in air-conditioned rooms while watching Netflix, and sipping refreshing ice-cold beverages.
One of the best ways to quench our thirst during this scorching season is with a delicious cup of milk tea. After two summers in lockdown, we have definitely ordered our favorite milk tea from our usual shops. However, it’s time to switch things up and try Tea Talk: the next must-visit milk tea shop!
Tea Talk features special milk tea concoctions made from authentic ingredients, making it one of the up-and-coming local milk tea shops worth checking out. Avoid going stir-crazy during the quarantine and create memorable bonding moments with your family while enjoying Tea Talk’s refreshing summer coolers.
Tea Talk Boba Brown Sugar Milk
If you’re in search of a delicious dessert-like beverage, try Tea Talk’s Brown Sugar Boba Milk.
Made with fresh milk and brown sugar syrup, this drink offers a sweet caramel flavor, a hint of arnibal, and a delightfully silky texture.
Are you looking for a refreshing and healthy drink that will satisfy your taste buds? Try Tea Talk’s Matcha Milk.
Made with fresh milk, natural sweeteners, and matcha flavor, one sip of this drink will have you hooked.
If you’re undecided or don’t have a specific flavor in mind, you can’t go wrong with a cup of signature Tea Talk Milk Tea.
Made with rich and creamy fresh milk and topped with tapioca pearls. This drink offers a simple yet delicious taste that you can enjoy.
Are you ready to try something new and unique? Tea Talk’s Oolong Milk Tea presents a light and flavorful experience with a nutty aftertaste.
This delightful drink combines classic iced oolong tea with rich, creamy fresh milk, all topped off with chewy tapioca pearls.
Tea Talk Taro Bubble Milk
For milk tea enthusiasts who enjoy a blend of sweet and nutty flavors, Tea Talk’s Taro Bubble Milk is the perfect choice.
This drink is made with natural tea, creamy fresh milk, and a delightful sweet taro flavor, providing you with the energy and fiber boost you need.
For a classic, vanilla-like beverage, Tea Talk’s Thai Milk Tea is a must-try drink.
Made with natural Thai tea flavor and milk, you will enjoy its silky texture and deliciously sweet, creamy taste.
Tea Talk Passion Fruit Special
If you’re looking for a refreshing drink with tropical flavors, Tea Talk’s Passion Fruit Special is the perfect choice.
This beverage is a sparkling iced tea infused with passion fruit, offering delightful natural health benefits. It delivers a sweet taste with a hint of tanginess.
Tea Talk Sakura Red Velvet
If you have a sweet tooth, Tea Talk’s Sakura Red Velvet will give you a creamy velvety cheesecake goodness.
Perfectly crafted Japanese-inspired milk tea, this drink is infused with real cherry extracts and mixed with creamy red velvet cheesecake and blushing pink tapioca pearls.
Tea Talk Wintermelon Fruit Tea
If you’re looking for a refreshing yet calming beverage, consider Tea Talk’s Wintermelon Fruit Tea.
This iced drink blends natural lemon juice with delightful wintermelon tea flavors, providing the perfect balance of sweetness and fruity taste.
What are you waiting for? Enjoy a delightful Tea and Talk experience this summer with your family and quench your thirst with Tea Talk. Find the nearest branch in your area: https://www.teatalk.ph/our-stores/
Tea Talk is the first homegrown milk tea brand in Morong, Rizal. Launched in 2019, Tea Talk offers authentic milk tea and beverages made with high-quality, fresh ingredients. With its uniquely flavored milk tea and a selection of complimentary appetizers and snacks, Tea Talk aims to provide customers with a delightful “Happy Tea and Happy Talk” experience.
For more information, please visit Tea Talk’s official website at teatalk.ph.
You can also like and follow Tea Talk on social media: facebook.com/teatalkmain on Facebook, instagram.com/teatalk.official on Instagram, and tiktok.com/@teatalk.main on TikTok.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | May 11, 2021 | Food & Beverage
Muslims around the world celebrate the end of the fasting period of Ramadan with Eid al-Fitr, the Festival of Breaking the Fast this May 12, 2021. It is celebrated through prayer, gifts, and lavish feast. While the country is predominantly Catholic, Islam is the second-largest religion in the country. No wonder, Filipinos have become fond of Halal foods.
Halal food is prepared following a set of Islamic dietary laws and regulations that determine what is permissible, lawful, and clean. Any dish can be halal, as long as the meat used is religiously slaughtered and no pork or alcohol is involved.
The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang has a Halal kitchen certified by the Muslim Mindanao Halal Certification Board. This kitchen dedicated to Halal food preparation serves Indian and Middle Eastern-inspired halal dishes that will whet your appetite and pay homage to its traditional roots.
Designed for proper breaking of the fast, The Manila Hotel’s Ramadan Special Halal Home Buffet set comes with dried dates and juice, chickpeas hummus, Fatoush mixed salad, roti and naan bread, vegetable biryani, tandoori chicken, lamb rogan josh, vegetable samosa, and baklava. The set is just one of the three choices for the Halal Certified Home Buffet.
“Our Lamb Rogan Josh is a must-try. It’s imported from Australia and it has the spices and sharpness that will surely be enjoyed by everyone. We can also customize the food according to our customer’s requests. Say you don’t like chili, we can make it milder. We can tweak a dish to please your palate while still being true to its authentic taste,” says Chef Kiran Singh, the hotel’s Halal-trained chef.
Celebrate Eid Al Fitr by ordering any of The Manila Hotel’s Halal Home Buffet sets or dishes, available for Takeout and delivery. Visit https://www.manila-hotel.com.ph/takeout/ for the full menu, or call 8527-0011 or 0998-9501912.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | May 1, 2021 | Food & Beverage
Coffee has received a bad reputation for many decades. Aside from allegedly triggering high blood pressure, insomnia, and hyperacidity, the Filipino habit of adding lots of sugar and cream to one’s cup has been said to aggravate diabetes.
While there is no denying the Pinoy coffee fan his morning cup, there is concern over the amount of sugar present in commercial 3-in-1 coffee mixes. The leading brand has 14.6 grams of sugar in one 20-gram sachet alone. Imagine how much sugar you’re taking in if you drink an average of three cups of coffee a day.
What About Sugar-Free Coffee?
For health-conscious individuals, especially diabetics, turning to sugar-free coffee mixes seems to be the only option. This meant enduring tasteless cups of coffee just to satisfy their caffeine fix — until Stevia came along.
Stevia is a low-calorie, zero-sugar sweetener that tastes so much better than artificial sweeteners. Stevia is an herb with a sweet-tasting extract that comes from the leaves of the “Stevia rebaudiana” plant. It has been enjoyed since pre-Columbian South America where indigenous people used the herb to sweeten their tea and other drinks.
The plant’s taste stems from steviol glycosides, molecules that are 250–300 times sweeter than regular sugar. It is an alternative sweetener that can be used on other things besides beverages, but also in cooking and baking. It became popular among health-conscious individuals because stevia has a very low caloric content. This makes it perfect for dieters and people who are trying to lose weight. Moreover, Stevia makes coffee and tea taste so much better without adding any calories.
The Health Advantages of Stevia
Stevia plant [Shutterstock image]
Additionally, while other sugar substitutes like Aspartame have been linked with cancer, there’s no evidence linking stevia to cancer since it is a natural ingredient. This means you can add stevia to dishes and drinks without fear that you’re taking too much sugar, or that you’ll get sick a few years down the road.
For coffee lovers, it’s also good to note that locally-made Glorious Blend coffees and instant beverages have Stevia as its natural sweetener. The blend of natural and healthful ingredients makes the drink refreshing and safe and good for one’s overall health.
The Glorious Blend boasts a full line of healthy drinks, including a 7-in-1 healthy coffee mix. This special blend is made with proven medicinal ingredients like Malunggay, Mangosteen, Calcium, Gotu Kola, and sweetened with Sweet & Fit Stevia. What’s even better is that the Glorious Blend 7in1 Coffee is non-acidic and promotes regular bowel movement.
The Glorious line-up also includes the 3-in-1 coffee mix with Stevia, 7-in-1 choco mix, 4-in-1 coffee with Malunggay, 5-in-1 coffee mix with Brown Rice, and the MaxiTrim coffee.
All Glorious Blend beverages use Stevia which has no calories, no carbohydrates, and zero glycemic indexes. All of their instant drinks will keep you alert and energized throughout the day. In addition, Glorious Blend products are locally sourced and manufactured. Their company supports local farmers, stevia growers, and other agricultural communities.
So if you’ve been cutting back on drinking coffee because of health problems like diabetes or hyperacidity, Glorious Blend coffee mixes are here to help. You can enjoy all the aroma and flavor of freshly made coffee all day — without the guilt!
Now, you can drink coffee for better health! Glorious, isn’t it? For more information about Glorious Blend coffee mixes, check out https://www.facebook.com/gloriousblend.
“Everything about Mug root beer appeals to the senses: the rich foam, the unique aroma, and the feeling of ice-cold refreshment. It’s the perfect drink for the whole family,” said Frederick D. Ong, PCPPI president, and chief executive officer.
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