Organic greens and superfoods

CEBU, Philippines - "How do you know if your greens are organic?"  This was the question raised by Club Marriott member Mrs. Victorina Armilla during an interactive appreciation event held recently about the benefits of healthy eating. Cebu City Marriott Hotel brought together loyal members of Club Marriott, the leading dining loyalty program in Asia Pacific.

The question was answered by Marriott Executive Chef Chachpol Suaisom. "They (the greens) won't look perfect!" he said. "Expect a little nip and tear here and there, considering the produce is insecticide free." The Thai chef also related that Thai cooking is all about using organic ingredients usually grown in one's own backyard. And subjecting vegetables to almost zero or minimal heating procedures, they give a healthier dose of nutrients that the body needs.

Chef Chach suggested adding lime for a rich sour of potassium and vitamin C, fresh chili for vitamin A and K to help in pain relief, lemongrass for needed source of iron that also helps prevent yeast infections, coriander for higher levels of dietary fiber, and mare more useful food-preparation tips. The chef went on to prepare his favorite signature Thai salads - Spicy Prawn with Lemongrass and Mint, Spicy Green Mango Salad, Spicy Thai Green Papaya Salad, Thai Beef Salad and Thai Pomelo Chicken Salad. The Club Marriott members in attendance had a firsthand experience on the preparation and got to taste the outcomes - plus, everyone went home with a copy of the healthful recipes.

Marriott's Food & Beverage Manager Mr.  Lyle Cajayon also gave tips on how to brew fresh tea infused with ingredients that are now considered as superfoods, such as moringa leaves (malunggay), soursop leaves (guyabano) and wheatgrass. These superfoods fortify the brew with more nutrients. Moringa boosts the immune system; soursop fights liver and breast cancer cells; drinking one ounce of wheatgrass juice is equivalent to eating 2.5 pounds of green vegetables.

Aside from the food and beverage experience, My Club Marriott's Top 3 members for the first quarter of the year were also recognized: Ms. Catherine Cusi, Ms. Judylyn Murro and Mr. Johannes Wildenberg.  Club Marriott Top Sales Consultant for the first quarter of 2016 Ms. Ma. Cathlyn Gaviola was recognized, as well.

Club Marriott members enjoy special perks and get discounts from all participating Marriott Hotels across the Asia Pacific. Inquiries and membership applications may be directed to phone (032) 411-5800 or to www.myclubmarriott.com. (FREEMAN)