Celebrating Puerto Rican Holiday Traditions

Essential Holiday Drinks

Homemade Coquito -Isla Provisions

🥥 Coquito: Puerto Rico’s Creamy Holiday Toast

No holiday gathering is complete without a chilled bottle of Coquito. This coconut-based drink is the Puerto Rican’s answer to eggnog—richer, spicier, and undeniably Puerto Rican.

Coquito Recipe (Serves 6–8)

Ingredients:

• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 1 can (15 oz) cream of coconut

• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1–1.5 cups Don Q white rum (adjust to taste)

• Cinnamon sticks for garnish

  
  

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.

2. Pour into a glass bottle and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

3. Shake well before serving. Garnish with cinnamon sticks or a sprinkle of nutmeg.

   ( You can find a locally made Los Hermanos' version of this holiday special at Sangria Los Hermanos Coquito 750ml "Locally Sourced" | Isla Provisions )

   
   

Savory Delights

🍃 Pasteles: Wrapped in Tradition

Making pasteles is a labor of love—and a team sport. You’ll find Momma grating green bananas, Abuela seasoning the pork, and cousins tying the bundles with string. These savory parcels are filled with seasoned meat and wrapped in banana leaves, then boiled to perfection. The process is time-intensive but worth every moment.

Sweet Endings

🍮 Tembleque: A Wiggly Coconut Delight

Tembleque, named for its jiggle (“temblar” means to tremble), is a silky coconut pudding that’s simple to make and impossible to resist.

Tembleque Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (13.5 oz each) coconut milk

• ½ cup sugar

• ¼ cup cornstarch

• ¼ tsp salt

• Ground cinnamon for garnish

  
  

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, whisk coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.

2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).

3. Pour into molds and chill for 2–3 hours.

4. Sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.

   
   

Where to Get It All: Isla Provisions

Whether you're hosting a holiday dinner or prepping for a cozy night in, Isla Provisions has everything you need to bring these traditions to life. From fresh produce and pantry staples to specialty items like local rum and cream of coconut, you can find it all on our website.

We source locally, pack thoughtfully, and deliver with care—so you can focus on what matters most: sharing food, stories, and laughter with the ones you love.

The Joy of Cooking Together

Gathering in the kitchen is more than just cooking; it’s about connection. Each dish tells a story, and every ingredient has a purpose. As we chop, stir, and taste, we create memories that last a lifetime.

When you prepare these traditional recipes, you’re not just feeding your loved ones; you’re sharing a piece of your heart. The laughter, the stories, and the aromas that fill the air are what make these moments unforgettable.

Embracing the Holiday Spirit

As the holiday season approaches, let’s embrace the spirit of togetherness. Whether you’re making Coquito for a toast or rolling out dough for Tembleque, remember that these moments are what truly matter.

So, gather your loved ones, put on some festive music, and let the cooking begin. With Isla Provisions by your side, you’ll have everything you need to make this holiday season special.

Conclusion

This holiday season, let’s celebrate the flavors of Puerto Rico. From the creamy Coquito to the savory pasteles, each dish is a reminder of our rich culture and traditions. With Isla Provisions, your culinary adventures are just a click away.

Let’s make this season one to remember, filled with joy, laughter, and, of course, delicious food. Happy holidays!