A Culinary Adventure with a Splash of Rum

The sun was shining brightly as I made my way up Orchid Hill Drive, the anticipation of a new adventure bubbling within me. I had heard whispers of Nicole’s Table from fellow travelers, and the idea of discovering the Caribbean through its rich history of cooking with rum was too enticing to resist. As I arrived at Nicole’s charming West Indian home, perched high on a hill with a breathtaking view of the Caribbean Sea, I knew I was in for a treat.

Nicole greeted us with a warm smile, her easygoing nature immediately putting everyone at ease. The class was intimate, with just a handful of us gathered around her kitchen island, ready to embark on a culinary journey. Nicole’s passion for cooking and storytelling was infectious, and as she began to weave tales of rum’s storied past in the Caribbean, I found myself captivated.

We started with a tasting of the island’s award-winning 5-year-old English Harbor rum, its rich flavors setting the stage for the dishes we were about to create. Nicole guided us through the preparation of plantain chips, sweet potato soup infused with rum, and marinated chicken thighs with onion jam. Each dish was a revelation, the rum adding depth and complexity to the flavors. As we cooked, Nicole shared anecdotes about life in the West Indies, her stories as vibrant as the dishes we were creating.

Savoring the Flavors of the Caribbean

As we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor, the view of the Caribbean Sea stretching out before us, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of contentment. The meal was a feast for the senses, each dish a testament to the magic of cooking with rum. The plantain chips were crispy and addictive, the sweet potato soup rich and comforting, and the marinated chicken thighs tender and flavorful.

Nicole’s rum punch was the perfect accompaniment, its refreshing sweetness a delightful contrast to the savory dishes. And then there was the rum cake, a decadent dessert that left us all in awe. It was like dining at a five-star restaurant, but with the added joy of knowing we had been part of the creation process.

Throughout the meal, laughter and conversation flowed freely, the camaraderie among our small group adding to the experience. Nicole’s warmth and hospitality made us feel like we were dining with old friends, and as the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the sea, I knew this was a day I would cherish.

A Taste of Island Life

After the class, I had the pleasure of staying at Nicole and Adam’s cozy BnB studio apartment, a perfect retreat with its clean, air-conditioned space and incredible views. It was the ideal base for exploring Antigua, and I spent my days soaking up the island’s beauty, from its pristine beaches to its vibrant culture.

Nicole and Adam treated me like family, their genuine kindness and hospitality making my stay all the more memorable. I even found myself growing fond of their two dogs, Jax and Brutus, who added to the home’s welcoming atmosphere.

As I packed my bags to leave, I felt a pang of sadness at the thought of saying goodbye. But I knew I would return, drawn back by the allure of Nicole’s Table and the warmth of the island’s people. Until then, I would carry the memories of this culinary adventure with me, along with the newfound skills to recreate the flavors of the Caribbean in my own kitchen.