The Secret

If you knew of a great secret would you share it? My guess is you’d probably keep it to yourself for a bit. But really, how many people can keep something for so long?

That’s why I’m sharing ours today. Our island’s secret is of a culinary kind, and one that many people from the Mariana Islands (Guam, Saipan, Rota, and Tinian) are familiar with.  It is our favorite complementary mixture of ingredients used to enhance flavors in many of our island main dishes.  This island favorite is fina’dene.  It’s not really a secret, but shhhhhh (pointer over lips)…..we’d like to think so.

What is Fina’dene

Fina’dene (prounced fi-na’ de-ne) is a condiment made with soy sauce, lemon or lime juice, onions, scallions, spicy boonie peppers, and red juicy cherry tomatoes.  Introduce this sauce to your cooked chicken, ribs, or steak, and wow – all of a sudden it brings out bolder flavors. If you are so inclined – take a spoonful of sauce and vegetables and pour it on your rice.

It is also visually appealing. The contrast of colors make it an artful culinary delight. Dark browns against white, and reds showing through make for a beautiful presentation. (Sorry, its the artist in me).

Variations of Fina’dene

Fina’dene is so popular in the islands – one is bound to find it at the end of a long fiesta table populated with dozens of delectable dishes.  While most islanders or transplants follow the traditional recipe, there are  variations of fina’dene types, some with a vinegar base rather than soy sauce, and others with hints of garlic and lemon or lime zest. Never-the-less the main ingredients are fairly standard as we previously mentioned. Some recipes differ primarily in the proportion of soy to lemon or lime juice. Some recipes call for a 1:1 ratio, while others call for a 1:1/2 ratio. My personal taste is for the later, because I like things a less tart. If you are the wild type and enjoy your fina’dene with a kick, more power to you. Use lemons over limes or the smaller Asian citrus called Calamansi.

Fina’dene-Made-Easy Measuring Mug Debuts

While many islanders grew up eating fina’dene with their meal, others wish they could wiz up a batch for their next party or smaller get-together. Well, to make things easier, I’ve designed a product that will make fina’dene a cinch to make for yourself, for your family, or even your friends. The neatest thing is that you’ll always do it the right way every time. The  product is called FINA’DENE MADE EASY, and it truly is. Even your college aged kids can easily follow these simple directions. Prepare your vegetables in advance, and follow the instructions on the mug by adding up to 6 ingredients. Once you are done, mix, let sit for a couple of hours or overnight in the refrigerator, serve, and enjoy! Hey – it’s really that simple.

Yes. I know. Everyone makes their fina’dene a little different. No problem. Just moderate your fixings to your taste or those who you’ll be serving. Like your fina’dene sweet? Add some Hawaiian shoyu. Need to watch your sodium? Use a low sodium soy sauce. Your options are endless.

You can buy this product which is also a gift box of the islands.

Fina’dene-Made-Easy Measuring Mug Showcases Guam’s Culture

When you visit our website to learn more about this product, take your time to see how I’ve turned this culinary product into an original art project. This was done by incorporating educational facts about Guam and the Marianas right on the box with a parchment motif of the 14 Mariana islands. In the interior of the packaging are two original island-styled illustrations depicting the Chamorro culture. These two pieces include a Chamorro girl (my youngest daughter) enjoying a fiesta plate meal with fina’dene of course, and a beach scene in northern Guam.

If you would like to purchase this island-styled gift, or a dual product which includes this gift and a “Got Fina’dene” apron, simply visit us at GerardAflagueCollection.Com and order it there.  Use the code FIRST5OFF at checkout for a 5% discount.

This FINA’DENE MADE EASY measuring mug is a 16 ounce frosted mug with heavy-duty handle, that will make a wonderful gift for anyone, for any occasion.

Si Yu’os Ma’ase and blessings!