Mouth-Watering Caribbean Dishes to Cook at Home

This is a guest post by Malcolm Cano, a former chef and editor of About Cooking Till Nowadays. With years of culinary experience, Malcolm shares tips and personal recipes for home cooks wanting to bring Caribbean flavours into their kitchens.

The Caribbean islands are famous for their vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and as a holiday destination. One of the most underrated treats is the delicious cuisine! Caribbean food is loaded with spices and bold flavours, and many traditional dishes are easier to make at home than you might think.

Before starting your Caribbean cooking journey, make sure you have the essential kitchen gadgets. Large pans are perfect for stews and boiling ingredients. New to Caribbean ingredients? Our guide will help you master these dishes with confidence and flavour!

Ackee and Saltfish

Classic Jamaican Breakfast Dish

Ackee and saltfish are a beloved Caribbean combination. Ackee, a starchy fruit native to Jamaica, has a creamy, slightly tangy flavour that complements briny salt cod. To prepare fresh ackee, peel, remove seeds, and boil slowly until bright yellow and flaky.

Tinned ackee is ready to use—simply combine with cold saltfish such as cod or herring. For a Caribbean twist, roll ackee and saltfish into small balls and lightly fry in batter for fritters.

Jerk Chicken

Spicy Grilled Caribbean Chicken

Looking for a new way to cook chicken? Jerk chicken is a famous Caribbean dish. Traditional jerk seasoning from Jamaica blends cinnamon, coriander, peppercorns, allspice, nutmeg, and Scotch bonnet chillies for a fiery punch. Rub onto chicken, then char on a barbecue or grill. Jerk seasoning also works beautifully on pork and pairs well with rice.

Rice and Peas

Traditional Caribbean Side Dish

Rice and peas is a staple Caribbean dish. Coconut milk is key for fluffy rice with rich flavour. Red beans replace green peas, adding protein and an earthy taste. Serve with grilled meat or Caribbean-style fish for a perfect meal.

Callaloo

Vegetarian Caribbean Stew

Not big on meat? Callaloo is a delicious vegetarian option. This stew combines tropical greens like amaranth and taro with optional extra vegetables. Packed with fibre and nutrients, it also pairs nicely with meat dishes.

Goat Curry

Traditional Caribbean Meat Dish

Goat curry is a classic Caribbean recipe. Goat meat is slow-stewed until tender, mixed with Scotch bonnet peppers, onions, garlic, allspice, and thyme for a rich gravy. Serve with rice, plantain, or breadfruit. Goat can be sourced from specialty butchers or Caribbean supermarkets.

Exploring world cuisines is a joy for home cooks. Trying new flavours brings a taste of other cultures into your kitchen. Whether you’re new to Caribbean dishes or a seasoned cook, experimenting is always fun!

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