Jamaican Chef In Panama

Pop Up Gourmet Jamaica caught up with Executive Chef George Matthews on his return from Panama where he participated in the IV Volcan Verde Festival - here's what he had to say about his experience!

Executive Chef George Matthews

‘It was a game changer for me to cook with 11 chefs from different countries and cultures to create this gigantic paella’ says Executive Chef George Matthews when asked about his experience on his recent trip to Panama.

Chef Matthews was the only chef from Jamaica invited to participate in the Volcan Verde Festival  and was part of the team responsible for producing the largest paella ever on the Isthmus.  The paella measuring 3 meters in diameter was ‘of the land’ & comprised a mixture of onions garlic sweet peppers saffron pork, chicken,  goat, parboiled rice,  & herbs like parsley & cilantro. ‘

The 'Land' Paella

 It was fun and the camraderie was amazing. We fed a town of people. I had a grand time in Volcan, Panama’ added Chef Matthews. Although  at times communication was difficult as he speaks only English, Chef Matthews noted that when it came to the ‘language of food’ -  they all spoke the same language. Volcan he says reminded him of Mandeville – cool & mountainous with friendly and welcoming people.

Signature Dish

George's signature dish of Jerked Pig’s tail with Blue Mountain Coffee & Walkerswood Guava Sauce although  a little spicy for some, was very well received.  

Jerked Pig’s tail with Blue Mountain Coffee & Walkerswood Guava Sauce

Pig's Tail On The Fire