Family Pride

Since Mother’s Day was just recently (ok, it was a while ago, but I’ve been meaning to write this post for a while), I decided to do a tribute to the strong, passionate, crazy women of my family. In my section of the Razon clan, most of my fmaily members are men (with the exception of those who marry into the family, of course). A huge exception are the children of my Lolo Bernie – six daughters, some of my father’s  closest cousins. One night, we had one of the traditional family get-togethers. Lots of lumpia, adobo, and bistik. Adults chatting on the couch while I somehow managed to watch over my younger cousins. I learned what it truly meant to be a Razon  that night while I overheard their conversation. 

Filipino Fruit Salad (New England version)

My mom rarely cooked food (my dad is the cook in the family), but for every major holiday event in my life, she prepared this mouthwatering dessert lovingly called Filipino fruit salad, a concoction of Nestle table cream, condensed milk, and tropical fruits chilled overnight. She even had a special bowl for it that she only prepared her fruit salad.

When you live in Boston, however, Nestle table cream and certain fruits are  next to impossible to find so I’ve had to make a couple of adaptations. Over the years, it’s morphed into something Filipino and Bostonian (Bostinoy?).  It’s great if you’re looking for a unique dessert or something to bring to a potluck last minute.  My friends really like this recipe because it’s different from what they’re used to. Enjoy!