https://issuu.com/boodschappen_magazine/docs/boodschappen_10_2022
The Surinamese language, food, and music play a major role in Vanessa’s life. And no party is complete without gingabiri, or ginger beer. This music teacher—who runs a foundation for talent development for vulnerable groups, among others—enjoys it immensely. “I learned to cook from my mother when I was
9 years old. Even then, I regularly cooked entire meals for our family, and gradually I developed my own style. Whatever I make, even if it’s just potatoes with sprouts (which doesn’t happen often, by the way), I always add something of my own. Surinamese style, you might say… Garlic, onions, Maggi cubes, and peppers provide that specific flavor, as does ginger. During parties, it is customary for us to make ginger beer. I prefer the fresh version, but others make it very sweet or spicy by adding Madame Jeanette pepper. For me, a good ginger beer is nice and sweet and a little spicy. I like to add lemon and pineapple juice, and once it’s seasoned to taste, this drink is really delicious and thirst-quenching. My children (aged 3 and almost 1) and my partner also enjoy it. He is from Nigeria and I am originally Afro-Surinamese, so we ultimately have the same roots. This is not only reflected in the basis of our cuisines, but also in our love of Afro music and good food and drink.
