Amanda PhillipsWhen you conjure up an image in your head of Jamaica food probably plays a part. Delicious rums, jerk chicken and reggae flavours are all a central part of Jamaica’s culture – and a large part of its appeal to visitors. Jamaica is definitely more than a just a beach destination and we recommend that all visitors delight their taste buds with some of these spicy Caribbean flavours!
Jerk Chicken
While in Jamaica you have to try the jerk chicken! The meat is dry-rubbed with the classic Jerk mixture that consists of allspice and Scotch bonnet peppers. Chicken is the traditional meat used, but if you prefer something else you can find Jamaican restaurants using the hot spice mix on pork, lamb and seafood.
Freshly caught seafood
Seafood is everywhere in Jamaica, and it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what seafood should be at the top of your list (there’s that much of it). Some will argue that Ackee and Saltfish should be first on your foodie list, while others argue that the Escoveitch Fish is the must-eat delicacy.
Curried Goat
A dish brought to the island by Jamaica’s Indian population, curried goat is a popular party food and is a speciality at festivals. It is usually made with a mild spice mix so is perfect for holidaymakers who want to try a local delicacy but have a low spice tolerance (the original Indian version is much spicier).
Local desserts
If you possess a sweet tooth, Jamaica won’t disappoint and, if you love coconut, you’ll absolutely adore the desserts on offer. Coconut drops, gizzada, and grater cake are all easily-available desserts found on the island that are made with local coconuts. But if coconut isn’t your favourite natural sweetener, you can opt for a bulla (flat, round cake made of molasses, flour, and baking powder) or a Dukunnu (green bananas mixed with cornmeal and sweet spices).
Blue Mountain coffee
Blue Mountain coffee is one of the most popular and sought-after coffee brands in the world. So special to Jamaica’s food and drink scene, coffee beans can only be considered Blue Mountain coffee beans if they are harvested from Saint Andrew, Saint Thomas, Portland and Saint Mary parishes in Jamaica.
Coconut Water
You’re going to need to wash all this delicious food down with something. For this, we recommend coconut water, which you can across Jamaica. It’s even used as an ingredient in curries.
What dish will be first on your holiday to Jamaica?
