Less-Common Caribbean Cuisines Worth Trying

When you think of Caribbean food, you probably first think of dishes from Jamaica, Haiti, and perhaps Puerto Rico. These are some of the Caribbean islands whose cuisines have spread across the world the most. However, they are not the only cuisines of the Caribbean. There are many other Caribbean islands, each with its own unique dishes and foods that are worth enjoying. Here's a look at some lesser-known Caribbean cuisines worth trying.

Belizian Cuisine

Belize is an island known for its beautiful, white-sand beaches, but its cuisine is also well worth exploring. It has been heavily influenced by Mexican and South American cuisines over the years. As such, you will see a lot of tortillas, rice, and beans used in the dishes. One popular dish is called bile up. It's made with eggs, fish, and a starchy root vegetable, such as cassava or yam. Ceviche, a dish of seasoned, raw fish, is also common in Belize, as are tamales and conch soup, a thick soup made with the meats of sea conches.

Bahamian Cuisine

People often travel to the Bahamas to visit the gorgeous resorts there, but the cuisine is a reason to stay even longer. Bahamian cuisine has been influenced by that of the American South. As such, you'll find dishes made with lots of hot chile peppers, garlic, tomatoes, and onions. Grits are often served as a side dish, and you may even see plates with coleslaw or potato salad on the side. Strews are often made with goat meat or mutton. Dessert is common in the Bahamas, too, with popular options including rum cake and bread pudding.

Bermudian Cuisine

Bermudian cuisine has been influenced by British and Portuguese cuisines over the years. It uses a lot of seafood, including wahoo and cod. Fish are often cooked in sauces made with onions and tomatoes and then served with a side of rice, peas, or other legumes. Fish chowder is a signature dish in Bermuda, and it is flavored with bacon fat and spices. For dessert, you'll often see a lot of pies and puddings, such as sweet potato pudding. Bananas baked with brown sugar and various spices are another popular treat.

Caribbean cuisine is incredibly vast. Each island has its own foods and traditions, and they are all worth trying. With each new dish, you expand both your palate and your understanding of this unique region's cuisine and culture. Keep these tips in mind when looking for a Caribbean restaurant near you.


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