News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Jan. 12, 2022: When you think about the Caribbean, you likely picture the crystal-clear water, exotic fruits like mangoes and papayas, or maybe palm trees swaying gently in the warm ocean breeze. In addition to all this, there is an even longer list of delicious foods and tropical fruit cocktails waiting to be tasted. If you’re planning a trip to the Caribbean and wondering what to eat, here are seven types of food that you should try once you land in the area.
Caribbean Paella
There’s a lot to appreciate in a Caribbean Paella serving, especially if you’re trying it for the first time. Like the Spanish Paella, the Caribbean version is a rice dish cooked with whatever ingredients are available. However, the difference here is that it’s not made with seafood, but rather meat and vegetables like chicken or beef paired together for a rich flavor. For home benefit, you can try these paella recipes before or after your trip to the Caribbean.
Caribbean Lobster Bake
The lobster in this traditional one-pot meal doesn’t come from the sea, but sourced inland. It’s a typical dish in countries like Jamaica and Antigua, where lobster is plentiful and relatively cheap compared to seafood found in other parts of the world. The bake typically includes potatoes, onions, carrots, butter, thyme leaves, green bell peppers, and red wine, all baked together in a large pot.
Callaloo
The most popular Jamaican dish, Callaloo, traced its roots from the West African countries and was brought to the Caribbean by the West African slaves in the colonial periods. It is a green soup usually made of amaranth leaves, a member of the spinach family, thickened with okra pods or dumplings.
The ingredients for this dish tend to differ from one island to another. For example, you can expect a Callaloo dish made of Callaloo leaves, scallions, onions, and salt if you’re visiting Jamaican Island.
Conch
This Caribbean favorite can be found in many islands, from soups to salads to salsas. The conch is a large sea snail often eaten raw, but it can also be cooked. Conch is also served with salads, stews, and soups. For the best serving of this dish, you can visit the Bahamas or the Cayman Islands.
Pepperpot Stew
This dish is a mix of meats and vegetables cooked in a broth made with herbs and spices. The meat used in Pepperpot stew can vary but typically includes beef, pork, lamb, or crab.
Roti
Roti is a type of flatbread that is popular in the Caribbean. It is made with flour, water, and salt, then cooked on a griddle. Roti can be filled with meats or vegetables, and it is often served with curries or stews.
Pelau
This dish comprises rice and meats such as chicken, beef, pork, lamb, or fish. The meat used in Pelau can vary depending on the island where it is served. Some variations will include coconut milk to add flavor and sweetness. There are many other traditional Caribbean dishes to try while on your holiday, but these are a few of the most
