Ahhh… the Caribbean. Home to sandy beaches, beautiful blue seas, and so much more. While the region is known for its scenery, no visit would be complete without sampling some of the best Caribbean cuisines. Whether you’re eating traditional recipes that have been cooked for centuries or sampling new creations from up-and-coming chefs, there’s no doubt that you’ll find something to tantalise your taste buds on these incredible islands. So, I’m sure you’re wondering, what food do they eat in the Caribbean anyway? Let’s find out! Read along as we take a look at 10 of the most popular Caribbean foods.
1. Ackee and Saltfish
This traditional Jamaican dish is made with ackee fruit, salt cod (or other types of salted fish), onions, peppers, and tomatoes. It can be served as either a stew or an omelette-style dish and is typically served with dumplings or bammy – a type of flatbread made from cassava root flour.
2. Jerk Chicken
Jerk chicken is one of the most popular dishes in Jamaica, where it originates from. It’s marinated in a mixture of spices including allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, garlic, ginger, and Scotch bonnet peppers before being grilled over hot coals for an incredibly flavourful result.
3. Run Down
Another one of the best Caribbean foods is known as Run Down. You can find this hearty stew in Jamaica, Barbados, and beyond as it has gained popularity throughout the region thanks to its delicious blend of flavours from coconut milk and herbs like thyme and chives. It is typically made with fish (usually kingfish) although some versions also include shrimp or pork as well as vegetables like bell peppers and okra.
4. Callaloo
This is often referred to as “Jamaican spinach” because it has a similar taste albeit with different textures due to its heartier leaves that are thicker than typical spinach leaves. Callaloo is traditionally made with taro or amaranth leaves but can also include other vegetables such as okra or even pumpkin depending on what region it’s being made in. It often includes ingredients like onions, garlic, scallions, and various types of meats like bacon or ham hock for added flavour.
5. Conch Fritters
These crispy fritters are typically found around The Bahamas Islands but now have spread across the entire Caribbean region due to their deliciousness. Conch meat (from large sea snails) is chopped up and then combined with flour before being deep-fried until golden brown. They’re also perfect for dipping into spicy sauces for an extra kick!
6. Curry Chicken
Next on the list of 10 of the most popular Caribbean foods is Curry Chicken. This classic Caribbean dish hails from Jamaica, Trinidad, and Tobago, but you can find variations throughout many other islands in the region too. Curry chicken combines succulent pieces of chicken cooked in a thick sauce made from curry powder blended with onions, garlic and ginger then finished off with Caribbean fruits like mangoes or pineapples for an added sweetness.
7. Plantain Chips
Plantain chips are a favourite throughout many islands in The Caribbean, typically fried or baked and then seasoned lightly with salt. But they don’t stop there. Add some smoked paprika or chilli powder if you want something spicier or try them with different condiments like garlic sauce or mango chutney. This makes them especially irresistible.
8. Cassava Pone
What’s Caribbean food like in terms of dessert? One fan favourite is cassava pone. This dense pudding-like cake can be found all over Caribbean countries, but each nation has its own unique spin on it depending on what ingredients they have locally available. It’s especially delicious when eaten warm and topped with freshly grated coconut flakes!
9. Bakes
Bakes are deep-fried dough pockets that can be filled with anything from cheese to fish to vegetables, depending on personal preference. Although there are many ways to make and eat them, they are known as a special Caribbean breakfast treat. They are also often served with condiments like hot pepper sauce or tamarind chutney for added flavour and spiciness!
10. Coconut Bread
Last on the list of 10 of the most popular Caribbean foods is Coconut bread, a sweet bread found within Caribbean islands such as Grenada and Dominica. This loaf-style bake uses freshly grated coconut alongside dried fruit such as raisins, sultanas, dates, and apricots. It is combined into one dough before being baked into an irresistible sweet treat. Slather it with butter and top it off with your favourite jam – divine.
Bonus Beverage: Rum Punch
Now you may be wondering, what is the most popular beverage in the Caribbean that you can pair with some of these top Caribbean foods? One drink the region is especially well known for is rum punch. This classic mixture usually contains various types of white or dark rum, tart lime juice, syrup, and bitters. Depending on where exactly you are, flavourings like pineapple juice and grenadine may also be included in the mix. Rum punches are served from Jamaica to the British Virgin Islands and beyond — no matter where you go, you’re sure to find some form of rum punch on any menu! They tend to be slightly sweet with a hint of spice and sourness and can be taken frozen or shaken over ice. This refreshing beverage is sure to put you in an island state of mind!
A trip to the Caribbean offers limitless unique experiences, but the food certainly makes it extra special. Now that you know what food the Caribbean is famous for, perhaps you are ready to start planning a trip. If you happen to go, make it a goal to try at least a few (if not all) of these top 10 Caribbean dishes! Exploring and trying local cuisine is one of the best ways to get a true taste of what a place has to offer. Not only does it provide an opportunity to try unique flavours and textures, but it can also be a great way to experience different cultures and customs. From fresh seafood to comforting desserts, each dish offers something special that adds flavour to your journey.
When planning your trip, if you’re looking for a place to stay, check out our luxury Caribbean villas and don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions you have about the food, culture, or lodging!
