Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a Caribbean gem, and its food is just as vibrant as its turquoise waters and lush landscapes.
The cuisine here is a delicious blend of African, European, and Indigenous influences, creating dishes that are hearty, flavorful, and downright unforgettable.
If you’re a foodie looking to spice up your kitchen game, you’ve hit the jackpot.
Get ready to dive into a culinary adventure that’ll make your taste buds dance.
From savory stews to sweet treats, these Saint Vincent and the Grenadines recipes are a must-try.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these dishes will transport you straight to the islands. Let’s get cooking!
1. Roasted Breadfruit and Fried Jackfish
Breadfruit is a staple in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and when paired with crispy fried jackfish, it’s a match made in heaven.
This dish is simple yet packed with flavor, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium breadfruit
- 2 jackfish fillets
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
How to Make It:
Start by roasting the breadfruit. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the breadfruit into quarters, remove the core, and score the flesh.
Rub with oil, sprinkle with salt, and roast for about 45 minutes until tender. For the jackfish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Coat the fillets and fry in hot oil until golden and crispy. Serve the roasted breadfruit alongside the fried jackfish for a truly authentic experience.
Why We Chose It:
This dish is a classic representation of Vincentian cuisine. It’s hearty, flavorful, and showcases the island’s love for fresh, local ingredients.
2. Callaloo Soup
Callaloo soup is a creamy, nutrient-packed dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Made with dasheen leaves (or spinach as a substitute), coconut milk, and okra, it’s a bowl of pure Caribbean goodness.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dasheen leaves (or spinach), chopped
- 1 cup okra, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the dasheen leaves, okra, and vegetable broth.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Stir in the coconut milk and scotch bonnet pepper (if using).
Simmer for another 10 minutes, then blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Why We Chose It:
Callaloo soup is a Vincentian staple that’s both nutritious and delicious. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to explore the flavors of the islands.
3. Fried Plantains with Saltfish
Sweet, caramelized plantains paired with savory saltfish is a combo you didn’t know you needed.
This dish is a popular breakfast or snack in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe plantains
- 1 cup saltfish (soaked overnight and flaked)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tbsp oil
How to Make It:
Peel and slice the plantains diagonally. Heat oil in a pan and fry the plantains until golden brown on both sides.
Remove and set aside. In the same pan, sauté the onion, tomato, and bell pepper.
Add the flaked saltfish and cook until heated through. Serve the saltfish alongside the fried plantains.
Why We Selected It:
This dish is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser for any meal of the day.
4. Dumplings with Coconut Milk
Vincentian dumplings are soft, fluffy, and often served in a rich coconut milk broth. It’s comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp sugar
How to Make It:
Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add coconut milk and water to form a dough.
Shape into small balls. In a pot, bring water and sugar to a boil. Drop the dumplings in and simmer until cooked through. Serve warm.
Why We Chose It:
These dumplings are a simple yet satisfying dish that highlights the island’s love for coconut milk.
5. Conch Fritters
Conch fritters are a popular snack in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. These crispy, flavorful bites are perfect for sharing.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup conch meat, minced
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Oil for frying
How to Make It:
Mix all ingredients except oil in a bowl. Heat oil in a pan and drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown. Serve with a dipping sauce.
Why We Selected It:
Conch fritters are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy seafood, and they’re a hit at any gathering.
6. Sweet Potato Pudding
This rich, spiced pudding is a beloved dessert in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. It’s sweet, dense, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated sweet potato
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup raisins
How to Make It:
Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. Let cool before serving.
Why We Chose It:
Sweet potato pudding is a traditional dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
7. Pumpkin Soup
Pumpkin soup is a creamy, comforting dish that’s popular in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. It’s often enjoyed as a starter or light meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pumpkin, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add pumpkin and vegetable broth. Simmer until pumpkin is tender.
Blend until smooth, then stir in coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper.
Why We Selected It:
This soup is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
8. Coconut Drops
Coconut drops are a sweet, chewy treat made with fresh coconut and ginger. They’re a popular snack in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated coconut
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp grated ginger
How to Make It:
Boil sugar, water, and ginger until it forms a syrup. Add coconut and cook until thickened. Drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper and let cool.
Why We Chose It:
Coconut drops are a simple yet irresistible treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.
9. Green Fig and Saltfish
Green fig (unripe bananas) and saltfish is a classic Vincentian dish that’s both hearty and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 4 green figs (unripe bananas)
- 1 cup saltfish (soaked overnight and flaked)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tbsp oil
How to Make It:
Boil green figs until tender. Sauté onion, tomato, and bell pepper. Add saltfish and cook until heated through. Serve with the boiled green figs.
Why We Selected It:
This dish is a staple in Vincentian households and a must-try for anyone exploring the cuisine.
10. Cassava Bread
Cassava bread is a gluten-free, dense bread made from cassava root. It’s a traditional food in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated cassava
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
How to Make It:
Mix all ingredients and shape into a loaf. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Let cool before slicing.
Why We Chose It:
Cassava bread is a unique and traditional dish that’s perfect for those looking to try something different.
11. Tamarind Balls
Tamarind balls are a tangy, sweet snack made from tamarind pulp and sugar. They’re a favorite among locals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup tamarind pulp
- 1/2 cup sugar
How to Make It:
Roll tamarind pulp into small balls and coat with sugar. Let dry before serving.
Why We Selected It:
Tamarind balls are a fun and flavorful snack that’s perfect for any time of day.
Conclusion
There you have it—10+ mouthwatering Saint Vincent and the Grenadines recipes that’ll bring a taste of the Caribbean to your kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, these dishes are easy to make and packed with flavor.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, fire up the stove, and start cooking your way through these delicious recipes.