Who doesn’t love food? No one I guess (apart from 1 or 2 people I know). But when it comes to the vibrant and delicious Caribbean food, then all taste buds are on deck; I’m yet to meet a soul that doesn’t love the delicious Island cooking. From the uniquely blended spices and fresh herbs to the colorful flavors and cool vibes, if you haven’t had a taste, then it’s time you did. But before you do, I’ve put together some three Caribbean food secrets you should know about, with the help of Miss Lily’s – the beloved Caribbean oasis in Dubai.

Caribbean food secrets

Get Your Mojo On

Mojo is not just a magic spell reserved for Halloween, but a major secret ingredient in Caribbean kitchen traditions. A rich traditional seasoning used across the region infused of green herbs and oil-based marinades – it uses the combination of several spices to create a unique spicy, tangy, citrus flavor. Ingredients may include cumin, garlic, onions, scotch bonnet peppers, celery, green onions & herbs such as cilantro, marjoram, rosemary, tarragon, and thyme. Known for its healing, (some say magical) properties – Mojo Spices are known to reduce the risk of heart disease and plaque buildup in the arteries, lower cholesterol and blood pressure and even boost immune systems to fight viral infections.

Goat Water

Moving on from Kale and Coconut water, the Caribbean food health trend takes it a step further – goat water, which comes from the islands of Aruba and Bonaire. Rich & distinct in taste, the people of the Caribbean marinate meat hours in advance. The meat is served with a hearty gravy that is made out of the same meat while being stewed, producing a satisfying broth, a thin, clove-scented stew called goat water. The way of cooking in the Islands is a healthy treat, as it produces a goat stew that doesn’t require oil or butter and is said to have strong nutritional benefits.

Caribbean Hot Sticks

The word “barbecue” comes from the French word “Babrecot”, derived from the Native Caribbean Arawak Indian tribal word “barbacoa”; meaning “heated sticks.” The barbacoa method of cooking meat originated in the Caribbean with the Taino people. First, the meat is marinated for 24 hours, then smoked on heated pimento wood sticks placed on a bed of leaves and slow-cooked to perfection on a raised platform. We now know the results of this traditional cooking method as the world famous “Jerk” recipe.

Are you a fan of Caribbean food? What’s your favorite dish? Feel free to share in the comments below.