This Caribbean Island Is Back From the Brink—and Ready To Share Its Treasures With the World

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The paintings of Italian-born artist Agostino Brunias, who made a profession of depicting the island in subdued, stylized settings that covered up the harsh realities of colonial control, were my first visual introduction to Dominica. However, as soon as I step onto its winding roads, which begin to twist shortly after I arrive, it becomes evident that this region, which is situated in the center of the Lesser Antilles’ curve, is anything but tame. The two-toned leaves of its bois canot trees, which change color from green to white when they sway in the wind, shimmer and bristle with the power of the volcano. It lulls with the erratic sound of its numerous waterfalls, scatters rainbows haphazardly across its breathtaking horizons, and enchants from the depths with its vibrant coral reefs. And it roars come storm season.

The indigenous Kalinago people of Dominica survived invasion by the French and British, who imposed slavery on the Africans who now make up four-fifths of the island’s population and left a linguistic legacy of English and French-based Creole, by mastering the lush tropical rainforest that covers more than 60% of the island. If you visit Trinidad for roti and Jamaica for jerk, you should travel to Dominica for green things like bush rum and flower teas. There are a ton of medicinal herbs in the forest.

The Jungle Bay Dominica resort, located smack dab in the center of the Soufrière jungles, leans into nature instead, maybe realizing the futility of fighting against the earth’s generosity. When I finally get there, the kitchen is closed. Joanne Hilaire, the operations manager, tells me that they never let guests go hungry, though, so I can feel the warmth of Dominica’s welcome. The cook is preparing an excellently stewed dish of beans with taro, rice, and plantain for our late dinner, off the menu, while I have a refreshing ginger-lime cocktail that is a local favorite. When I wake up the following morning, I find that my villa’s doors open onto a private veranda that faces southwest toward Soufrière Bay, where the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean converge. I let the light wake me for the remainder of my stay by leaving my blinds open.

5 Ways to Tell if an Egg is Fresh or Rotten

Uncertain about egg freshness when cooking? Here are some simple tips to assess freshness and cut down on egg-related food waste. Supermarket eggs are labeled with a use-by date, and in France, eggs can’t be sold seven days before this date. Eggs from a henhouse stay fresh for up to 28 days after being laid.

Refrigerated eggs, even with intact shells, are safe for consumption for up to one month past the use-by date, equating to 58 days post-laying. Proper storage practices help maintain freshness and minimize waste. Expired eggs may emit an off-putting odor. A bad smell indicates loss of vitamins and an altered taste. If it smells normal, consider using it quickly, such as in an omelet.

Inspecting the shell and egg color is essential for detecting spoilage. Powdery or cracked shells may suggest the presence of mold. Unusual colors in the egg white or yolk, like blue or green, are indicators of spoilage. By adopting proper storage techniques and remaining vigilant, you can prevent egg waste while ensuring your meals remain fresh and safe.

Remember, proper storage in the refrigerator is crucial for maintaining egg freshness and reducing health risks. By adhering to these simple guidelines, you can confidently use eggs in your recipes, knowing they are safe and fresh.

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