Suprita Mitter
Updated:Jun 28, 2024
As India gets ready to take on South Africa in the grand finale of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in The West Indies, here’s a list of dishes from the Caribbean Islands that one must try. From hearty stews to sweet treats, West Indian cuisine is a celebration of flavours and ingredients unique to the Caribbean islands.
Image Credit: Unsplash
The West Indies is a region in the Caribbean that includes numerous islands, which are divided into three main groups: the Greater Antilles, the Lesser Antilles, and the Bahamas. These islands are known for their diverse cultures, languages, and histories, with influences from indigenous peoples, European colonisation, African heritage, and, in some cases, Asian and Indian immigration. The term ‘West Indies’ reflects this blend of cultures and the region’s rich heritage.
Video Credit: Visit Barbados
West Indian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavours and ingredients that reflect the region’s diverse cultural heritage. Each dish tells a story of the islands’ history and the people who call them home. Key staples include rice, beans, plantains (cooking banana), and a variety of tropical fruits and vegetables. Seafood is abundant here.
Jerk Chicken is probably the most iconic dish from Jamaica. It’s a flavourful and spicy grilled chicken, marinated in a blend of seasonings known as jerk spice.The marinade typically includes allspice, thyme, Scotch bonnet peppers, ginger, garlic, and cinnamon. The chicken is traditionally cooked over pimento wood, giving it a distinctive smoky flavour. Jerk Chicken is usually served with rice and peas, fried plantains, and a side of coleslaw. The heat from the Scotch bonnet peppers, combined with the sweet and savoury notes from the allspice and other spices, creates a complex and satisfying dish.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Roti and Curry is a staple in Trinidad and Tobago, reflecting the Indian influence in the region. The dish consists of a soft, flatbread (roti) filled with curried meat (such as chicken, goat, or shrimp) and potatoes. The dish shows the influence of Indian immigrants in this region. Just like in India, the curry is spiced with a blend of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and other spices, creating a rich and aromatic filling. The soft roti and the spicy, hearty curry make for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the day.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Source link
