Saint Kitts and Nevis, a Caribbean gem, is not just about stunning beaches and lush landscapes—it’s also a food lover’s paradise.
The islands’ cuisine is a vibrant mix of African, British, Indian, and French influences, creating dishes that are as flavorful as they are unique.
If you’re looking to spice up your kitchen with some Caribbean flair, you’re in for a treat.
From hearty stews to sweet desserts, these Saint Kitts and Nevis recipes are a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and tropical vibes.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these dishes are easy to make and will transport your taste buds straight to the islands. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
1. Stewed Saltfish with Dumplings
A staple in Saint Kitts and Nevis, stewed saltfish with dumplings is a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Saltfish, or salted cod, is a popular ingredient in Caribbean cooking, and when paired with fluffy dumplings, it’s a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb salted cod (soaked overnight to remove excess salt)
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Start by boiling the soaked saltfish until tender, then flake it into pieces. For the dumplings, mix flour, baking powder, and water to form a dough.
Shape into small balls and set aside. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, tomatoes, and bell pepper in oil until soft.
Add the saltfish, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper. Stir in the dumplings and simmer until they’re cooked through.
Why we chose it: This dish is a true taste of the islands. The combination of savory saltfish and soft dumplings is pure comfort food, and it’s a great introduction to Caribbean cooking.
2. Conch Fritters
Conch fritters are a crispy, flavorful snack that’s perfect for sharing.
Conch, a type of sea snail, is a popular ingredient in Caribbean cuisine, and these fritters are a fun way to enjoy it.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb conch meat, finely chopped
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper, minced (optional)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
How to Make It:
Mix the conch meat, flour, cornmeal, egg, milk, onions, peppers, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Heat oil in a deep pan. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce.
Why this made our list: Conch fritters are a crowd-pleaser. They’re crispy, flavorful, and perfect for parties or as a snack.
3. Goat Water Stew
Goat water stew is the national dish of Saint Kitts and Nevis, and for good reason.
This hearty stew is packed with flavor and is often enjoyed during celebrations.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs goat meat, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
- 4 cups water
- Fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Heat oil in a large pot and brown the goat meat. Add onions, garlic, and tomatoes, and cook until soft.
Stir in carrots, potatoes, scotch bonnet pepper, water, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the meat is tender and the flavors meld together.
Why we selected it: This stew is a true taste of the islands. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy meal.
4. Johnny Cakes
Johnny cakes are a Caribbean favorite, and in Saint Kitts and Nevis, they’re often enjoyed for breakfast or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Oil for frying
How to Make It:
Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Add milk and melted butter to form a dough. Shape into small rounds and fry in hot oil until golden brown.
Why this made our list: Johnny cakes are simple, delicious, and versatile. They’re perfect for breakfast or as a side dish.
5. Pumpkin Soup
Pumpkin soup is a creamy, comforting dish that’s popular in Saint Kitts and Nevis. It’s often enjoyed as a starter or light meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 small pumpkin, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Sauté onions and garlic until soft. Add pumpkin, broth, and nutmeg. Simmer until the pumpkin is tender.
Blend until smooth, then stir in coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper.
Why we chose it: This soup is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy meal.
6. Sweet Potato Pudding
Sweet potato pudding is a traditional dessert in Saint Kitts and Nevis. It’s sweet, spiced, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated sweet potato
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup flour
How to Make It:
Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes or until set.
Why this made our list: This pudding is a sweet, spiced treat that’s perfect for dessert.
7. Curried Chicken
Curried chicken is a flavorful dish that’s popular in Saint Kitts and Nevis. It’s often served with rice and peas.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Heat oil in a pot and brown the chicken. Add onions, garlic, and curry powder, and cook until fragrant.
Stir in bell peppers, tomatoes, and coconut milk. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through.
Why we selected it: This dish is flavorful, aromatic, and perfect for a hearty meal.
8. Coconut Drops
Coconut drops are a sweet, chewy treat that’s popular in Saint Kitts and Nevis. They’re made with fresh coconut and sugar.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated coconut
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make It:
Boil sugar and water until it forms a syrup. Add coconut and vanilla, and cook until thick. Drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper and let cool.
Why this made our list: These drops are a sweet, tropical treat that’s perfect for snacking.
9. Rice and Peas
Rice and peas is a classic Caribbean side dish that’s often served with curried chicken or stewed meats.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup kidney beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 sprig thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Sauté onions and garlic until soft. Add rice, coconut milk, water, beans, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the rice is tender.
Why we chose it: This dish is a staple in Caribbean cuisine and pairs well with almost any meal.
10. Banana Bread
Banana bread is a popular treat in Saint Kitts and Nevis. It’s moist, sweet, and perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
How to Make It:
Mix bananas, sugar, butter, egg, and vanilla in a bowl. Add flour, baking powder, and salt.
Pour into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Why this made our list: This banana bread is moist, sweet, and perfect for any time of day.
11. Tamarind Balls
Tamarind balls are a tangy, sweet snack that’s popular in Saint Kitts and Nevis. They’re made with tamarind pulp and sugar.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup tamarind pulp
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
How to Make It:
Boil sugar and water until it forms a syrup. Add tamarind pulp and cook until thick. Shape into small balls and let cool.
Why we selected it: These balls are a tangy, sweet treat that’s perfect for snacking.
Conclusion
There you have it—11 mouthwatering Saint Kitts and Nevis recipes that’ll bring a taste of the Caribbean to your kitchen.
Whether you’re craving something savory like stewed saltfish or something sweet like coconut drops, these dishes are sure to impress.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, fire up the stove, and start cooking your way through these delicious recipes.