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Grill like a Pro with Chef Luis Chikiamco’s Yakiniku Ikouze DIY Yakiniku in a box!

Anne B Food, Business May 14, 2021May 15, 2021

Chef Luis Chikiamco of Discovery Primea Makati has bravely launched a business amidst the pandemic. He allows us to play Chef with his beautifully-packaged DIY Yakiniku curated boxes filled with premium beef and special homemade sauces through his Yakiniku Ikouze brand.

The DIY Yakiniku Box

Each box contains:

300g USDA Short ribs

300g SRF (Snake River Farm) Wagyu Tender

260 mL Yakiniku Sauce, 260 mL Spicy Yakiniku Sauce, Sesame seeds, Shichimi Togarashi (Japanese 7 spice), Wooden Chopsticks, and a visual instruction leaflet.

Yakiniku Ikouze’s DIY box is good for about 2-3 people and not only looks good but tastes even better! Well-marbled USDA short ribs and richly-colored wagyu tenders are complemented with flavourful home-made sauces that are all well-proportioned. Each box is good for 2-3 people and is reasonably priced at Php980 given the quality of the content.

Yakiniku Ikouze literally translates to “grilled meat let’s go” is an experience everyone in the family can enjoy. No need for fancy equipments, any K-grill or regular kitchen pan will do just fine. The DIY box stays true to its Japanese roots with the inclusion of a carefully drawn manga-inspired instruction leaflet featuring Toshi the Yakiniku Master with recommended cook times from rare to well done meat.

The Verdict

I love the whole experience and would recommend everyone to try this one out! I felt like a pro as I generously rubbed the Shichimi Togarashi with a little sprinkle of salt and rosemary about 10 minutes prior to cooking in butter.

I used a regular nonstick skillet over an induction cooker at 800 temperature and grilled the meat to my preference at about 30 secs for each side. The centre of the wagyu tenders retained just the right amount of pink I like. While the home-made sauces are just the right amount of sweet and spicy. I equally love them both and dip into each alternately. A warm cup of white Japanese rice would be perfect to complete the menu, but I opted to pair the meat with cheese, biscuits, and a cold serving of Rosé wine.

Where to Get?

If you are looking to upgrade your at-home dining experience, I urge you to try Yakiniku Ikouze! This is a delicious and great way to recreate date nights with your loved ones or try something new with the whole family at the comfort of your home. You may order from their IG page, FB page, or by placing an inquiry via 0917 536 2528. I’d like to thank my good friend Aleah for sending me a Yakiniku Ikouze DIY box for my version of (fur)Mom’s day.

Meet the Chef

It’s optimistic to see the ingenuity of the people in local food scene as the industry copes to embrace the new norm such as Chef Luis Chikiamco. They continue find creative ways to deliver these experiences at home not only to keep the business afloat but also to allow Pinoys to enjoy food they love and bring bite-sized comfort.

Chef Luis was a former Executive Chef of Discovery Suites and is currently the head of Discovery Primea Makati’s restaurant outlets. According to the Discovery Primea website, Hh has an extensive culinary experience spanning more than a decade in France, Mexico and the Philippines. He has a degree in Culinary Arts and Hotel Management from L’Institut Paul Bocuse in Lyon, France and apprenticed at at the three-star Michelin Auberge et Clos de Cimes in Lyon, France. From then brought home is rich experience with engagements at the Intercontinental Hotel, Soleil Moderne Café, Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila, Illustrado Restaurant as well as being Chef Instructor at the Henry Sison and CCA Manila Culinary Schools.

Credits:

Photos featured in the article are a combination of personal files or are from the official Yakiniku Ikouze FB Page, IG Page and Chef Luis Chikiamco’s FB page.

Song Kang is the exclusive endorser of Deoproce Philippines

Anne B Lifestyle May 13, 2021May 15, 2021

Pinoys are falling further in love with anything K! K-pop, K-drama, K-skincare – you name it, we stan it! Even more so when any of these K-worlds collide for a collab. The latest of which is the launch of Deoproce Philippines’ ambassador for its newest K-Skincare line. Heartthrob Song Kang of Netflix’s Love Alarm fame is exclusively endorsing Deoproce Philippines’ Natural Green Caviar line.

“Though beauty endorsements are still dominated by women, it is quite refreshing and inspiring to see a male celebrity give marketing a makeover and democratize beauty for men. With Song Kang as its latest muse, Deoproce remains at the forefront of the skincare industry, blending the gender lines while still delivering innovative and effective products”, according to Deoproce in its press release.

Song Kang is the exclusive Deoproce PH ambassador

What is Green Caviar?

Green caviar or sea grapes is locally referred to as Lato – commonly served fresh as a salad with tomato, onions, and green mango to complement all-time pinoy favorites grilled fish or pork.

As a key skin-care ingredient, Green Caviar helps fight signs of ageing by boosting collagen production and keeps skin hydrated by retaining moisture. It is rich in vitamins, minerals to help brighten and strengthen the skin.

The Deoproce Green Caviar Line has 6 products to complete your 6-step K-skincare Routine. As a rule of thumb, you should use start from the product with the thinnest to the thickest formulation.

The Green Caviar 6-step routine

Step One (1)

Green Caviar Cleansing Water (Php690) to remove makeup, dirt, and excess oils. A soaked cotton sheet was able to get rid off my liquid eyeliner in 2-3 strokes.

Step Two (2)

Green Caviar Cleansing Foam (Php590) to completely remove dirt and provide gentle exfoliation. The tightly packed matte foam has super fine microbeads that turns into a rich creamy lather. Most cleansers make my skin feel tight after a good wash but this one made my skin feel softer.

Step Three (3)

Green Caviar Toner (Php 790) to hydrate and prepare the skin for the serum and moisturizer phases, as well as get rid of stubborn traces of makeup or dirt. Listen to the pop of frizz when you remove the seal of freshness on your first use.

Step Four (4)

Green Caviar Vitamin C Ampoule (Php1,490) to brighten, moisturize, and protect the skin with its highly concentrated active ingredients. The formula has the right viscosity for a serum – it’s not runny, nor thick. Also, it has the faintest scent among all the products despite its yellowish color, which I like.

Step Five (5)

Green Caviar Cream Moisturizer (Php1,490) to hydrate the skin without the sticky heavy residue. The whipped light cream gives an immediate boost of hydration to the skin. I use this at night and wake up to plump hydrated skin in the morning.

Step Six (6)

Deoproce Green Caviar Skin Perfecting Tint

Green Caviar Skin Perfecting Tint with SPF 30 PA++ (Php790) to even out your complexion and give extra protection against the sun’s harmful rays. This is a great base to add to your makeup routine but can we worn alone if you want go for a lighter feel or more natural effect. I’m an NC30/35 and it is perfect for my skin tone. Important: this is meant for your morning routine.

The verdict

I enjoyed using all the products from the Deoproce Green Caviar line and especially love that the scent is kept very mild – reminiscent of fresh watermelon juice. Most importantly, it stayed true to its promise of skin hydration. I highly recommend the Deoproce Green Caviar line to those with dry to normal skin. Those with oily skin may benefit from the toner and cleansing products.

Where to get?

Deoproce products including the complete Green Caviar Line is available in Watsons, SM Department stores, Amorfia PH, and Lazada. Deoproce is an established Korean skin care and cosmetics manufacturer. Apart from its own brand, Deoproce manufactures products for well-known Korean beauty brands and specializes in exotic natural ingredients such as snail mucus, spider web essence, pig collagen, and more.

Credits:

All photos in this article are from the official Deoproce PH FB Page

How to Get to Bohol

James Gonzales Bohol, Travel March 15, 2021March 15, 2021

Central Visayas is home to hundreds of fantastic sights, but if you’re looking for a destination that’s got it all, you might want to check out Bohol. One of the most picturesque spots in the country, Bohol has everything— world-renowned dive sites, white sand beaches, and the inimitable Chocolate Hills. The province’s diverse flora and fauna also make it a great choice for nature lovers, and with such a range of activities, everyone’s sure to find something they like.

While Bohol might not be as famous as popular destinations like Boracay and Cebu, it’s definitely a must-see. Anyone from solo backpackers to couples to families can enjoy the sights and sounds of the Jewel of what many in the country call God’s Little Paradise.

Things to Do in Bohol

James Gonzales Bohol, Travel March 15, 2021March 15, 2021

If there’s one travel destination in the Philippines that literally has something for everyone, it’s Bohol. A first-class province nestled in the Central Visayas, Bohol is home to an incredible range of ecological sights and stunning views— which makes it no wonder that the island is considered one of the top vacation and travel spots in the country, and a growing contender in the region.

Not only is Bohol home to some of the most beautiful natural flora and fauna in the country, it’s also got incredible white sand beaches, diving sites, and much more. The island may not always rank top of the list when it comes to famous vacation sites in the Philippines, but it’s definitely a top competitor for the sheer number of unique activities and sights to see.

Independent travelers looking for a taste of adventure are sure to enjoy what Bohol has to offer.

Where to Eat in Bohol

James Gonzales Bohol, Travel March 15, 2021March 15, 2021

Whether you’re out and about enjoying the many natural wonders that can be found in Bohol Island, or spending a day lounging about on the fine white sand of Alona Beach, one thing’s for certain: everyone’s got to eat. Thanks to a thriving tourist economy and a ton of creativity from local entrepreneurs and restaurateurs, Bohol Island is home to some incredible cuisine.

Restaurants in Bohol span a variety of different foods, from traditional Filipino cuisine, to European and Asian fusion, to farm-to-table food, and much more. You can find a meal to enjoy nearly anywhere in the province, whether you’re located in the heart of the capital in Tagbilaran City on Bohol Island or based in the more laid-back, seaside atmosphere of Alona Beach in Panglao Island.

Food is an essential part of any vacation, and backpackers, families, and couples alike have something to look forward to during their trips to Bohol. Below are only a few of the dozens, if not hundreds of restaurants in Bohol Island and Panglao Island that rank among the best of the best when it comes to hearty, delicious cuisine.

Bohol

James Gonzales Bohol, Travel March 15, 2021March 15, 2021

Bohol is a province 75 islands located in the Central Visayas region. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, it’s a traveler’s paradise filled with beautiful white sand beaches, lush tropical rainforests, and incredible sights that you just can’t find anywhere else.

Where to Stay in Bohol

James Gonzales Bohol, Travel March 13, 2021April 12, 2021

Bohol is a traveler’s dream, with tourist attractions that run the gamut from beachside relaxation to zipline adventures through the treetops. You can spend days at a time enjoying the best of what Bohol has to offer, exploring hidden gems like the province’s waterfalls and hiking trails, to taking in the picturesque sight of the world famous Chocolate Hills.

When you’re in Bohol, every day is a treat, and the variety of tourist attractions means that there’s never a boring moment. But when you’ve had your fill of Bohol Island’s incredible sights and sounds, it’s about time to start thinking about places to stay. After all, even the hardiest travelers need rest. Luckily, Bohol is prime location for getting in a bit of rest and relaxation, and you’ll find that you get the best of both worlds on your trip.

Where to Eat in Boracay

James Gonzales Boracay, Travel March 12, 2021March 12, 2021

If there’s one thing that holds true about the Philippines, it’s that Filipinos love food. A trip to a tropical paradise like Boracay isn’t complete without sampling the dozens of incredible restaurants and cafés that the island has to offer. There’s nothing better than coming in from a day out in the sea and sun and eating a hearty meal, and that’s something that Boracay restaurants and eateries can definitely offer.

Boracay has everything from dainty desserts to fresh-grilled seafood out on the beach. Pastry lovers, meat lovers, seafood lovers, and vegetarians alike will find that Boracay Island has everything they need. Want a gastronomic experience to match up to the sights and sounds of the most beautiful island in the Philippines? Then you’re in luck. Check out a few of our favorite Boracay restaurants and see which ones can satisfy your cravings.

How to Get to Boracay

James Gonzales Boracay, Travel March 12, 2021March 12, 2021

Visiting an island paradise is everyone’s dream, and with a location as gorgeous as Boracay, Philippines, it makes no sense to miss out. With the small island pulling in over 2 million tourists in 2017 alone, it’s clear that you have a lot of company when it comes to travelers who want to get a taste of the turquoise waters and fine white sand. But how can you get to this small, sparkling jewel of the Philippines? Here’s a short, handy guide for how to get to Boracay.

Where to Stay in Boracay

James Gonzales Boracay, Travel March 12, 2021March 12, 2021

Thanks to tourist booms that started in the 1970s and continued more or less unabated into the present, Boracay has become the top tourist destination in the Philippines. There were almost a million local tourists who visited the island in 2019 alone, with another million coming from international locations like China, Korea, Taiwan, and the U.S.

This incredible tourist population has led to the rise of several resorts, hotels, and hostels on the island. With a three-day stay on the average, tourists are looking for favorite spots to get their fill of rest, relaxation, and fun in the sun. Where that spot will be, however, is dependent on what you’re looking for.

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