Whether or not you’re from the Caribbean Islands, chances are you’ve probably had some Jerk chicken before or at the very least heard of it. And not to discredit the absolute deliciousness that is Jerk chicken or jerk seasoning in itself, but there are so many other amazing Caribbean foods that are worth a try so today we will be exploring 5 must-try dishes from the Caribbean Islands that we believe are definitely worth sampling.
Ackee and Saltfish
Popularly known for being the national dish of Jamaica, Ackee and Saltfish is also a favorite breakfast or brunch option for Caribbeans all over the world. The combination of the salty, firm and dry saltfish with the delicate, soft texture of the ackee which absorbs the flavors of whatever it is cooked with, creates a meal that is both subtle and bold but very flavourful. Served with fried ripe plantains, avocados or other sides of choice, Ackee and Saltfish is a perfect introduction to Caribbean food culture and certainly worth a try.
Callaloo
A simple but tasty dish, Callaloo is famous in the Caribbeans and its diaspora but is typically prepared in specific ways depending on the island. Similar to spinach, this popular leafy green vegetable is lightly steamed with onions, garlic, scotch bonnet and scallions and makes for a deliciously healthy dish perfect for plant-based eaters or as a nutritious side.
Red Pea Soup
This rich and hearty soup is an incredibly comforting and warming soup, perfect for cold nights. Caribbean red pea soup, despite its tricky name, is actually made with red beans which are generally referred to as ‘peas’ in Caribbean culture. The hearty soup is loaded with starches such as potatoes, yams, carrots, and a ton of flavourful spices and although it usually features some type of meat, it is perfectly customizable and can be eaten plain for a more vegan-friendly recipe.
Macaroni Pie
Macaroni Pie is a beloved, crowd-pleasing favorite, especially during the holidays. Similar in looks to the American Mac and Cheese, the Caribbean Macaroni pie differentiates itself in its texture, as it is baked until golden and firm unlike its ooey-gooey mac and cheese counterpart. Although a popular dish in the Caribbeans, Jamaicans, Guyanese, Trinidadian and other Caribbean islands may have slight variations in their recipes but typically prepare this dish using the same ingredients and techniques.
Jamaican Curry Goat
Again, compared to its more popular sibling, Oxtail, Jamaican curry goat is an incredibly delicious but underrated Caribbean dish. Spicy and savory, the curry goat is indeed a strong contender for the ‘GOAT’ (Greatest Of All Time) status when it comes to different Caribbean curries. This classic Jamaican recipe is easier to prepare than it looks and is perfect for spicing up your menu. It is typically eaten with the popular rice and peas which can also be substituted for roti or plain white rice.
From wedding receptions, to intimate gatherings or corporate events, Comfort Cuisine Catering provides the most authentic and affordable Caribbean and Southern cuisine in Toronto to spice up your event’s menu. Whether you are looking to share your Caribbean culture through food or seeking to create cherished memories with loved ones, at Cocu Catering, we pride ourselves on creating the most delicious and comforting meals that transport you to your cherished nostalgic memories for a delicious trip down memory lane. But we don’t just do Caribbean food, we challenge ourselves to recreate the comfort foods of our client because at Cocu Catering, your comfort always comes first!
