Caribbean cooking reflects the flavors of many different cultures from the early settlers. African, Spanish, French, East Indian, and Amerindian influences can all be found in the different Caribbean dishes that are so popular. The one staple throughout most Caribbean cooking is rice. However, even rice can be prepared in slightly different ways to reflect the traditions of the islands that it originated from. Rice can be seasoned, or served plain. You can add beans or peas, or combine it into a dish. Coconut is a popular additive to the native rice dishes. Rice will generally pick up the flavor of any dish it is added to.

Another common dish from the Caribbean is jerk. Jerk is a combination of different spices and seasoning including allspice, which gives jerk its unique flavor. Different meats are seasoned with jerk, then grilled to perfection. Goat is a popular meat in the Caribbean along with chicken and various types of seafood. Goat can be made with jerk, curry, or made into a popular tomato based stew. Goat water stew combines a tomato base, papaya, breadfruit, dumplings, and served over rice.

Another favorite in the Caribbean Islands is Pelau, or “cook-up.” This dish combines meats like chicken, beef, goat, and seafood with various vegetables, rice, and peas. Many Caribbean dishes lean more toward savory flavors such as garlic and lime instead of the sharper flavors of peppers. If you are unable to travel to the Caribbean to enjoy some of their native dishes, do a quick search on the internet and try cooking up some Caribbean dishes in your home.