Que Rica Pili Nuts Davao Chocolate

TASTING NOTES FROM THE CURATOR

Pili nuts are from the resilient pili trees deep in Filipino rain forests. These ones from Que Rica are hand-harvested by farmers in Irosin, Sorsogon in Bicol. They are then covered with a dusting of Davao chocolate, coco sugar, and activated charcoal. The result is a delectable treat—the nut is light and buttery, and is complemented wonderfully by the sweet and rich chocolate.

PREPARATION AND PAIRINGS

The Que Rica Pili Nuts Davao Chocolate is perfect for that sweet ending after a wonderful meal. It’s also great for snacking at any time of the day. Pair with a cup of strong coffee to balance out the sweetness.

BICOL’S BEST

Pili nuts are arguably Bicol region’s most famous product. Bicol is the largest producer of pili nuts in the Philippines, with almost 85% of the country’s production coming from the provinces of Albay, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon, and Catanduanes. The pili tree is a resilient tree, able to withstand most changes in its surroundings, can survive floods and strong winds, and can recover easily from typhoons. Sold as fresh whole fruit, shelled kernels, or dried nuts, pili is a popular pasalubong. Sellers have taken on different ways to make them marketable, the most popular being its candied form.

Que Rica is one such seller. The eponymous brand of Le Cordon Bleu Paris-trained chef, Rica Dakudao Buenaflor, aims to elevate regional heritage foods to new heights. She moved to her husband’s native Bicol in the early 2000s, and headed the R&D department of the Bicolano-Spanish restaurant “¿Que Pasa?” in Naga City. She also pioneered the collective called #BestofBicol, which aims to promote the region’s best.

The brand is filled with inspired and inspiring individuals, empowered to shine a spotlight on Bicol’s culinary heritage. They partner with a community of women in Gainza, Camarines Sur for their bottled products, and their pili nuts come from farmers in Irosin, Sorsogon. All of their offerings are hand-packed right at the source, ensuring quality and reflecting the respect and love the community has for its food and its customers.

Storage Instructions

Store in a dry area, away from direct sunlight. Consume within 6-8 months.