5 OMG Caribbean foods you should definitely try

23/10/2014bayley

If there’s one thing we look forward to sampling when we visit hotels here at Blue Bay it’s most definitely the food.

But for some the unfamiliar fodder native to Caribbean destinations is a bit daunting. We are after all, Brits abroad! So we’ve compiled a list of our top 5 Caribbean dishes that you won’t be able to resist, and might even want to recreate back home.

Rice and peas

OK, rice and beans. Kidney beans for that matter. This simple side dish cooked in coconut milk and allspice will be found next to many dishes, and is a staple in the Caribbean diet. The creaminess of the coconut with the beans makes rice and peas super moreish. Go on, just try a spoonful.

rice and peas 2

 

 

Plantain

Like a banana right? Wrong! They’re more starchy, not as sweet and totally inedible when raw. We’re not selling this very well, but trust us on this one. You’ll usually find this sliced up and roasted or fried until softened. Plantain is the perfect accompaniment to rich or spicy dishes and its melt-in-your-mouth texture will have you going back up to the buffet for a second helping.

plantain

Jerk chicken

A classic Caribbean dish. The “jerk” marinade varies but generally consists of spring onions, ginger, scotch bonnet chillies (these are hot!), garlic, onions, thyme, lime, allspice, sugar and soy sauce. If you’re a bit nervous of spice you could always ask the staff how spicy it is, as it can vary wildly, but give it a go! The combination of these flavours marinated overnight then cooked to perfection is mouth-wateringly good. Jerk fish or ribs are equally as tasty.

jerk chicken 3

Goat curry

Forget chicken korma! Goat curry isn’t something you’d usually find in a curry house back home but it’s super popular in the Caribbean. But that doesn’t mean it’s lower quality. It tastes, not too surprisingly, similar to lamb. Try this with some rice and peas, fresh coriander, and a Jamaican flatbread – you’ll be converted for life.

goat curry

Avocado salad

Looking for a lighter main or side dish but can’t find the usual caesar or tomato salad? Embrace the super-food power of the avocado! Surprisingly a lot of people have still never tried avocado,but they’re a frequent ingredient in Caribbean cuisine. Creamy, really good for you, and totally moreish. Served with watercress, pumpkin seeds, papaya and mint leaves this is the exotic salad to end all salads.

Avocado-salad-with-orange-vinaigrette

Prev Post

5 Irresistible Holiday Bargains to Inspire Your Next Getaway

14/10/2014

Next Post

Sea Breeze Beach Hotel - A Little Piece of Paradise

23/10/2014