JET Programme Series: Tokyo Tales and Doubles with Slight - Rishma Hansil

Follow me through the labyrinth of narrow streets in Tokyo’s business district; as we squeeze ourselves into a packed “izakaya” (Japanese Style Bar) for a one of a kind event -“Soca Karaoke.” Caribbean culture is alive and well in Japan’s cosmopolitan capital. Despite being oceans away from Trinidad & Tobago; you can find the sweet sound of steelpan music, calypso parties and the occasional Jouvert in a city such as this. I’m always in awe of the vibrant community of Japanese and Caribbean nationals who are committed to promoting Caribbean culture in Japan. I wanted to be part of the action and share the one thing Tokyo was missing – Doubles!

After scouring a few markets to get all the ingredients and several Youtube videos later we were all dressed up in our T&T chef aprons ready to make doubles. The first few attempts were eaten in the solitude of our apartment but once we perfected the recipe we took our show on the road; bringing doubles to the streets of Tokyo! Pedestrians were lured in by the smell of freshly fried barra and spiced channa. I’m forever grateful to my Japanese sisters who helped bring the taste of home to Japan - with teamwork anything is possible! Since then we’ve expanded our culinary repertoire by making cross-cultural cooking videos (with both English and Japanese commentary) and sharing our love of culture through the dishes we share with friends and curious onlookers. You can find our latest creations at http://ilovetrini.net/howto-make-doubles/ Youtube page and website for more!


Rishma Hansil
JET (Japanese Exchange & Teaching) Program Assistant Langauge Teacher
Tokyo City


JET Programme Series: Tokyo Tales and Doubles with Slight! (Japanese Embassy Facebook)


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