Jamaican Food – 20 Traditional Dishes You Have to Try
Jamaica is a country rich in culture and history, and one of the main ways that Jamaicans express this is through their food. Jamaican cuisine is a blend of African, Spanish, and Caribbean flavors, and it’s simply delicious. The following is a list of 20 traditional Jamaican dishes that you absolutely have to try.
1. Ackee and Saltfish – Ackee is Jamaica’s national fruit, and it’s typically fried up with onions, tomatoes, and salt cod to make a hearty breakfast or brunch dish.
2. Jerk Chicken – The most famous of all Jamaican dishes, jerk chicken is marinated with a special blend of spices before being cooked over charcoal.
3. Escovitch Fish – This dish is typically made with fried fish and a pickled vegetable relish that includes sweet peppers, onions, and vinegar.
4. Rice and Peas – Despite its name, this Jamaican staple is actually made with kidney beans instead of peas, and it’s typically served alongside grilled meats or seafood.
5. Fried Plantains – This sweet and savory side dish is a must-have on any Jamaican plate.
6. Mannish Water – This hearty soup is made with goat meat, yams, and spices, and it’s said to have aphrodisiac properties.
7. Curry Goat – Another popular Jamaican meat dish, curry goat is marinated in a spicy curry sauce before being simmered for hours.
8. Festival – This sweet, fried bread is typically served with escovitch fish or other seafood dishes.
9. Coco Bread – This soft, sweet bread is a staple accompaniment to any Jamaican meal.
10. Jamaican Patty – This flaky pastry is filled with seasoned beef, chicken, or vegetable filling, and it’s a popular snack on-the-go.
11. Mannish Water – This hearty soup is made with goat meat, yams, and spices, and it’s said to have aphrodisiac properties.
12. Oxtail Stew – This rich and hearty stew is made with braised oxtail, kidney beans, and curry powder.
13. Callaloo – This Jamaican staple is a leafy green vegetable that is typically cooked with garlic, onion, and coconut milk.
14. Beef Patty – Similar to the Jamaican patty, but with a beef filling, this baked pastry is a popular snack food in Jamaica.
15. Fried Dumplings – These crispy, fried dumplings are typically paired with spicy jerk chicken or curry goat.
16. Jamaican Curry Chicken – This classic Jamaican dish is made with chicken marinated in a blend of curry powder, black pepper, and other spices.
17. Pumpkin Soup – This creamy soup is made with pumpkin, coconut milk, and a blend of spices that gives it a unique flavor.
18. Pepperpot Soup – Another hearty soup, pepperpot soup is made with a blend of vegetables and meat, typically goat or beef.
19. Run Down – This seafood stew is made with coconut milk, saltfish, peppers, and onions, and it’s typically served with fried plantains or breadfruit.
20. Fried Breadfruit – This starchy fruit is a staple in Jamaican cuisine, and it’s typically served fried or roasted as a side dish.
In conclusion, Jamaican cuisine is a must-try for any foodie looking to explore new flavors and cultures. From spicy jerk chicken to hearty goat stew, there’s something for everyone in Jamaican cuisine. So next time you’re in Jamaica, be sure to try some of these delicious traditional dishes – your taste buds will thank you!
