Must-try Caribbean Food and Drink

The Caribbean is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, histories, and, most importantly, flavours. This group of sun-kissed islands is renowned not only for its breathtaking landscapes and crystal-clear waters but also for its diverse and mouthwatering cuisine. Each island offers its own unique culinary traditions, influenced by a rich blend of African, European, Indigenous, and Asian cultures.

The result is a spectacular fusion of tastes and aromas that will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or an adventurous traveller eager to explore new tastes, the Caribbean's culinary delights promise a tantalising experience that reflects the heart and soul of the region. From spicy jerk chicken to the comforting warmth of goat water, the flavours of the Caribbean are as dynamic and captivating as the islands themselves.

If you are going on a Caribbean cruise from the UK, this is the perfect time to embark on this culinary adventure and discover the must-try Caribbean food and drink that makes this destination a true foodie’s paradise.

Must-try Caribbean food and drink:

• ·        Goat Water

• ·        Flying Fish and Cou-Cou

• ·        Conch

• ·        Jerk Chicken

• ·        Callaloo

• ·        Green Fig and Saltfish

• ·        Mangu

• ·        Vibrant Drinks

• ·        Caribbean Desserts

Goat Water

Let’s start with a quintessential Caribbean dish: goat water. Don’t let the name fool you, as this traditional stew from Antigua and Barbuda is a hearty, slow-cooked meal that combines tender goat meat with a medley of spices, vegetables, and sometimes a splash of rum. This rich, flavourful stew often includes potatoes, carrots, onions, and dumplings, creating a savoury dish that warms the soul. It’s typically enjoyed with a side dish of crusty bread or rice, making it a perfect comfort food.

READ MORE: Must-try French food and drink

Flying Fish and Cou-Cou

Flying fish and cou-cou is the national dish of Barbados, a must-try for anyone visiting the Caribbean. The fish is typically seasoned with local herbs and spices, then deep-fried or steamed to perfection. Cou-cou, made from cornmeal and okra, is similar to polenta but with a Caribbean twist. The combination of the crispy, flavourful fish and the creamy, comforting cou-cou creates a delightful balance that’s quintessentially Barbadian. This dish is often served with a spicy tomato-based sauce, adding an extra kick to this already flavourful meal.

READ MORE: Must-try Spanish food and drink

Conch

Sea snail, specifically conch, is a delicacy across many Caribbean islands. Particularly popular in the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic, conch can be enjoyed in various forms. Conch salad, a refreshing dish with raw conch, lime juice, onions, tomatoes, and peppers, is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. For those who prefer their conch cooked, conch fritters are a deep-fried delight, and conch chowder, a hearty soup, showcases the versatile sea snail’s unique texture and flavour.

Jerk Chicken

No exploration of Caribbean food would be complete without mentioning jerk chicken. This iconic dish hails from Jamaica, where chicken is marinated in a fiery blend of spices, including allspice and Scotch bonnet peppers, then grilled to smoky perfection. The marinade typically includes ingredients like thyme, garlic, cinnamon, and nutmeg, which infuse the chicken with a complex, mouthwatering flavour. Often served with rice and peas (kidney beans cooked with rice and coconut milk), it’s a flavourful staple that embodies the bold, spicy character of Jamaican cuisine.

Amber & Eric, who are food-obsessed travel bloggers at Food and Drink Destinations, gave their thoughts on their favourite dish when visiting Jamaica:

“When people think about traditional Caribbean food and traditional Jamaican cuisine, many people think of authentic jerk chicken. This is regardless of whether they are thinking about Jamaica or one of its neighbours! Jerk is the most popular dish in Jamaica.”

Callaloo

Callaloo is a beloved leafy green dish found in many Caribbean kitchens, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago. Made from amaranth or taro leaves, callaloo is often cooked with coconut milk, garlic, onions, and various meats or seafood, such as crab or salted pork. The result is a rich, creamy side dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Callaloo is often served alongside main courses, adding a nutritious and flavourful element to any meal.

Green Fig and Saltfish

St. Lucia offers a unique culinary experience with its national dish, green fig and saltfish. Despite its name, “green fig” refers to green bananas, which are boiled and served with salted codfish sautéed with onions, peppers, and herbs. This traditional dish is a delightful blend of textures and flavours, reflecting the island’s diverse culinary influences. The saltfish is often prepared with a touch of coconut milk and a squeeze of lime juice, enhancing its savoury flavour and making it a perfect match for the starchy green bananas.

Pelau

In Trinidad and Tobago, pelau is a beloved one-pot dish that combines rice, pigeon peas, chicken or beef, and a variety of vegetables. The ingredients are slow-cooked together, often with coconut milk and aromatic spices, resulting in a rich, flavourful meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Pelau is a perfect example of the islands’ Creole influences, with its blend of African, Indian, and Spanish culinary traditions. It’s a dish that’s often enjoyed at family gatherings and celebrations, bringing people together over its hearty, delicious flavours.

Mangu

Mangu is a staple breakfast in the Dominican Republic, made from boiled and mashed plantains. The plantains are typically boiled until soft, then mashed with a little butter or oil and seasoned with salt. Mangu is traditionally served with a variety of accompaniments, including fried eggs, fried cheese, salami, and sometimes avocado. This hearty, flavourful dish provides a delicious and energising start to the day, showcasing the Dominican Republic’s love for simple yet satisfying meals.

READ MORE: Must-try Canary Island’s food specialities

Vibrant drinks

To truly appreciate Caribbean cuisine, one must also indulge in the region’s vibrant drinks. From the refreshing punch of lime juice in a classic rum punch to the creamy richness of a coconut milk-based piña colada, Caribbean beverages are as diverse and delightful as the food. Don’t miss out on trying sorrel, a spiced hibiscus drink popular during Christmas in many islands, or mauby, a unique drink made from the bark of the mauby tree, often enjoyed in Trinidad and Tobago. For a non-alcoholic option, try a glass of fresh coconut water, which is not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients.

Caribbean desserts

No culinary journey through the Caribbean would be complete without sampling some of the region’s delightful desserts. From the rich and creamy coconut tart of the Bahamas to the sweet and spicy black cake of Trinidad and Tobago, Caribbean desserts are a celebration of the islands’ love for sugar and spice. Don’t miss out on tasting cassava pone, a traditional pudding made from grated cassava, coconut, and spices, or a slice of Jamaican rum cake soaked in rum and bursting with dried fruits and spices.

The Caribbean islands offer an abundance of traditional dishes and beverages that are sure to tantalise your taste buds. Whether you’re savouring the slow-cooked goodness of goat water in Antigua and Barbuda or relishing the spicy kick of jerk chicken in Jamaica, each bite is a celebration of the Caribbean’s rich culinary heritage.

So, as you cruise through these tropical paradises with us, make sure to dive into the local cuisine and discover the flavours that make the Caribbean truly unforgettable. Don’t wait, and take a look at our 2025 cruises, where you can have the chance to taste some of these Caribbean favourites!

For more articles and guides that’ll inspire your upcoming cruises, then make sure you explore our blog.