Many Caribbean flavors are as unique as the islands that they come from, however there are a few dishes that carry you away to the warm tropical islands the minute you smell them cooking, even if you have never been to the Caribbean. Many of the spices that are used in Caribbean dishes are the same spices that are used all over the world; however, they are used in unique combinations for that wonderful Caribbean flavor.

Most of the island dishes make use of the abundance of fresh fruit, vegetables, and seafood that is so available. Various spices used with items such as coconut milk, papayas, mangoes, and various peppers give a unique savory/sweet combination to popular Caribbean dishes that you generally do not find in the States. Many of the wonderfully sweet ripe fruits grown in the islands are combined with hot peppers and chilies for a delightful dipping sauce. Caribbean chocolate cake recipes commonly include spicy chilies for a sweet dessert with a bite to it.

In addition, spices that we commonly use in the States are combined in other dishes, giving them a totally new flavor. Nutmeg is a prime example. In the States we use nutmeg and allspice to flavor desserts and other sweet foods. In the Caribbean, these spices are combined with other island spices, peppers, and onions for a totally unique, and yet familiar taste. Jerk seasoning combines cinnamon and allspice with various peppers and onions for a meat rub or marinade. Caribbean flavors are festive and exotic, but they do not have to be unique to the islands. A quick search on the internet will reveal the recipes for those wonderful island flavors.