Traditional Caribbean Christmas Food
by Yello Dec 11, 2017
There is no question that the Caribbean is a melting pot of cultures, especially when it comes to cuisine; borrowing flavours and traditions from around the world. On some islands, you can find the influence of European, African and Latin American dishes; some foods originating from the UK, Spain, the Netherlands, and India.
Here are a few delicious suggestions you might consider including at the dinner table throughout the Caribbean this Christmas.
Aruba – Bolo Proto (Dark Fruit Cake)
This is another variation of Caribbean fruitcake, the only main difference is that the Dutch prefer to soak their fruits in: 1 bottle Cherry Heering, a Danish liqueur, cognac and dark Karo syrup(corn syrup).
Barbados – Jug Jug
While Great Cake (fruit cake, soaked in rum for three months or longer) is also very popular in Barbados, another traditional Christmas dish is Jug Jug. This plate dates back to Barbados’ Scottish heritage, influenced by the dish haggis; made from green peas, guinea corn flour, herbs and salt meat.
Belize – Rumpopo
Rumpopo is a variation of egg nog, served throughout the Christmas season in Belize. This recipe calls for a whole lot of rum and about a dozen eggs. However, if you want to make it authentic, locals are specific about the rum they use. Use Belizean white rum, or Wray & Nephew – but NO Bacardi.
Cayman Islands – Fruitcake (Black cake, Great Cake)
Fruitcake is popular in many other islands, such as Jamaica, Barbados and the Dutch colonies. However, during Christmas time, it is traditional for Caymanians to soak their fruit (raisins, prunes, dates, cherries) in red label wine for as long as two months. This gives the cake its signature taste.
Jamaica – Sorrel
Sorrel is an extremely popular beverage in Jamaica, especially around the holiday season. Preparation for this drink takes at least a day. This drink is derived from the sorrel flower (related to hibiscus) and the petals are used to give the drink its distinct flavour and colour. Typically, the drink is made with rum, sugar, ginger and of course, sorrel petals.
Trinidad & Tobago – Christmas Rice
Although rice is a common side dish all year round, and on all islands, Trinidad has a special variation known as Christmas Rice. Other than containing spices and sweet peppers, Christmas rice gets its flavour from the added ingredient: raisins.
No matter where you choose to spend your holidays, you’re likely to find one of these popular dishes on your plate this Christmas.