Erwan Heussaff joins 'Buhay Carinderia' as content creator, wants to explore Mindanaoan cuisine

Buhay Carinderia just got “fatter” as restaurateur Erwan Heussaff joins the event as a Content Creator.

Heussaff was introduced as something of an ambassador to the carinderia culinary culture on Wednesday, largely due to his existing advocacy to promote native ingredients and Filipino home-cooked flavors.

“I really want to showcase the heroes of our culinary heritage,” Heusaff told the press, promising to use his influence to highlight the magic made in unassuming kitchens across the country.

Erwan Heussaff at the 'Buhay Carinderia' press launch on Wednesday, April 11 at Rizal Park Hotel. Photo: Aya Tantiangco

“I love that every Filipino thinks that their mother is the best home cook, and I believe that, too,” he said. “Carinderia food is a representation of that; it’s homecooked food presented in a humble setting.”

Heussaff admitted to being a fan of goto / arroz caldo, beef pares, and ube ginataan, but said he’s looking forward to learning about and trying the different styles from different provinces.

As the Buhay Carinderia’s Content Creator, Heussaff said that he’s eyeing the flavors all the way down south.

“I need to learn more about Mindanao and Maranao cuisine,” he said.

“I feel like everyone in the country hasn’t had enough access, information, or exposure to Mindanaoan cuisine and I would love for 2018 or 2019 to be the gear when it kind of blows up and people kind of come up with those dishes and we learn more from them.”

This could be the year for this flavorful culinary explosion to happen, as Buhay Carinderia partners with Tourism Promotions Board for the first time.

Buhay Carinderia will be something of a months-long traveling party that will commence on June 28 & 29 in Vigan, Ilocos Sur and will culminate sometime in November or December. 

Buhay Carinderia was first launched by Marylindbert International, Inc. as Carinderia Fiesta in 2011 and it has since uplifted the loves of some 3 million individuals and their families.

This year, it aims to scour the country for the best of the best in the culinary scene and share with them best practices in the industry and improve their financial literacy among other activities.

The search begins in Northern Luzon and will eventually involve around 227 provinces.

Buhay Carinderia will culminate in a grand exposition in November or December, where all the regional best will be showcased under one roof. — LA, GMA News