caribbean Cuisine
Exuberant, dynamic, hot and colourful: all sum up the cuisine of the
Caribbean Islands.
Each island’s cooking is distinct, shaped from the cuisines of the many
countries that have fought over and influenced these tropical paradises.
Caribbean cooking tends to be quite spicy due to the use of native Scotch
Bonnet chillies, which are also known as Caribbean red peppers. They are ever
present in hot sauces, stews and curries, giving them their unique flavour.
However, the most internationally famous Caribbean spice is the legendary Jerk
seasoning, which is used as a rub for meat or fish prior to barbecuing and in
marinades. Jerk spice is often referred to as Jamaican Jerk seasoning, but is
enjoyed throughout the Caribbean on jerked meat often cooked over hot coals in
steel drums.
Different islands have developed different Caribbean spice blends, all with
their own history. An example of this is Poudre de Colombo curry powder, which
originated from the Sri Lankan workers in the sugar plantations of the French
West Indies. To reflect these variations, Seasoned Pioneers offer a range of
Caribbean spices and rubs, all ensuring an authentic result to your Caribbean
cooking.
Jamaican spices include Allspice berries, also known as pimento, the dried
berry of the Jamaican pepper tree or Pimento tree. Allspice berries have a
peppery mix of flavours with notes of clove, nutmeg and cinnamon. Allspice
berries are used as a condiment and with vegetables such as yams and
plaintains. For a taste of Jamaican spices in the UK, try roasting sweet
potatoes tossed in a little oil and sprinkled with crushed Allspice berries,
salt and pepper.
As an aperitif to all this wonderful and sunny Caribbean cuisine, be sure to
try the traditional Caribbean Christmas chilled punch drink, Caribbean Sorrel
Rum, which can be enjoyed at any time of the year!
Should you need any further information about Caribbean
cooking and Caribbean spices, do get in contact and we’ll do our best to help
you!
caribbean seasonings