How to make the best Homemade Caribbean Crackers

Caribbean crackers are a delicious and versatile snack made with various ingredients, including flour, water, salt, and spices. They can be flavored with a variety of herbs and spices, such as garlic, onion, ginger, and chili peppers. Caribbean crackers can be enjoyed plain or with a variety of toppings, such as cheese, dips, and spreads.

Made with our favorite flour and unsalted butter brands, these crackers have a nice crunch on the outside but are also soft and chewy. The result is a flavorful and addictive snack that will transport your taste buds to the Caribbean’s sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The best part? Making these crackers at home allows you to customize them to your liking. Add black pepper, ground turmeric, or ground cinnamon. So why settle for boring store-bought crackers when you can spice up your snack time with homemade Caribbean crackers? Get ready to embark on a flavor-packed culinary adventure!

Ingredients needed to make Caribbean Crackers

Homemade Caribbean crackers are a great alternative to store-bought crackers and taste much better. Making your homemade crackers can be a lot of fun. They are easy to make and much healthier than regular store-bought crackers.

• All-purpose flour or bread flour: use either. I prefer bread flour because the taste and the texture are softer and smoother.
• Kosher or sea salt: for seasoning.
• Baking powder
• Unsalted butter: Use a good butter brand. (You will notice the difference.)
• Vegetable shortening: Use plain or non-flavored shortening.
• Water: Use tap water or purified water – must be at room temperature

Step-by-step instructions for making Caribbean Crackers.

Here is a summary of the instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and prepare 2 to 3 large baking sheets.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder. Add butter and shortening and mix until completely blended.
3. Transfer dough to a clean surface and knead for a few minutes until smooth and soft.
4. Roll out dough to 1/8 inch thick and cut with a round cookie cutter.
5. Place crackers on ungreased baking sheets, 1/2 inch apart.
6. With a fork, lightly poke holes in the dough.
7. Bake in the middle of the oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden and crispy.
8. Cool at room temperature.

Here are some additional tips:

• If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
• You can line the crackers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking to the baking sheets.
• To check if the crackers are done, carefully remove one from the oven and let it cool for a minute. The crackers are also done if it is golden brown and crispy.

Tips and tricks for perfecting your Caribbean Crackers

Here are some tips and tricks for perfecting your Caribbean crackers:

• Use cold butter and shortening. This will help to keep the dough from becoming too soft and sticky.
• Don’t overwork the dough. Overworking the dough will make the crackers tough.
• Roll out the dough to a uniform thickness. This will help the crackers cook evenly.
• Prick the dough with a fork before baking. This will help to prevent the crackers from puffing up too much.
• Bake the crackers until they are golden brown and crispy. If you underbake them, they will be soft and chewy.
• Let the crackers cool completely before storing them. This will help to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Here are some additional tips:

• For a more flavorful cracker, add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, to the dough.
• To make cheese crackers, sprinkle the dough with shredded cheddar cheese before baking.
• To make sweet crackers, add 1/2 cup of sugar to the dough.
• You can also add other ingredients to the dough, such as nuts, seeds, or spices.

Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find your perfect Caribbean cracker recipe.

Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
• If you add dried or fresh herbs, nuts, or dried fruits, you must adjust the amount of flour and butter.
• If the crackers are not browning evenly, rotate the baking sheets halfway through baking.
• If the crackers are not crispy, bake them for a few minutes longer.

Storing and preserving Caribbean Crackers

Caribbean crackers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To store the crackers in an airtight container, place them in a container and seal it tightly. Be sure to remove any air from the container before sealing it. This will help to prevent the crackers from becoming stale.

If you are storing the crackers in the refrigerator, place them in a single layer so they do not stick together. You can also place a piece of parchment paper between the layers of crackers to prevent them from sticking.

If you are storing the crackers in the freezer, be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in the freezer. This will help to prevent them from drying out. When you are ready to eat the crackers, remove them from the container and let them come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Here are some additional tips for storing Caribbean crackers:

• Avoid storing the crackers in a humid environment, as this will cause them to become soggy.
• If the crackers become stale, you can refresh them by placing them in a 350-degree F oven for a few minutes.
• You can also add a few drops of water to the crackers before baking them to help them retain their moisture.

With proper storage, Caribbean crackers can be enjoyed for weeks or even months.

Pairing suggestions for Caribbean Crackers

Caribbean crackers are a versatile snack that can be paired with a variety of foods. Here are a few suggestions:

• Cheese: Caribbean crackers are a classic pairing with cheese. The salty, savory flavor of the crackers complements the creamy, rich flavor of the cheese. Some cheeses that go well with Caribbean crackers include cheddar, brie, and goat cheese.
• Dips: Caribbean crackers can also be used to scoop up dips, such as hummus, guacamole, or salsa. The crackers’ crispy texture helps add a bit of crunch to the dip.
• Spreads: Caribbean crackers can also be enjoyed with spreads, such as peanut butter, Nutella, or jam. The sweetness of the spread helps balance out the crackers’ salty flavor.
• Soups: Caribbean crackers can also be used to eat soups, such as tomato soup or lentil soup. The crackers help to thicken the soup and add a bit of texture.
• Salads: Caribbean crackers can also be added to salads for a bit of crunch. They can also be used to make croutons.
• Dessert: Caribbean crackers can also be enjoyed with desserts like ice cream or fruit. The dessert’s sweetness helps balance out the crackers’ salty flavor.

These are just a few suggestions for pairing Caribbean crackers with other foods. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorites.

Health Benefits of Homemade Caribbean Crackers

The health benefits of homemade Caribbean flour can vary depending on the type of flour used. However, some general health benefits of homemade Caribbean flour include:

• High in fiber: Homemade Caribbean flour is often high in fiber, which can help to regulate digestion and promote gut health.
• Low in glycemic index: Homemade Caribbean flour is often low on the glycemic index, which means that it does not cause a spike in blood sugar levels. This can be beneficial for people with diabetes or prediabetes.
• Rich in nutrients: Homemade Caribbean flour is often rich in nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients can help to boost the immune system and protect against chronic diseases.
• Gluten-free: Some types of homemade Caribbean flour, such as cassava flour, are gluten-free. This can be beneficial for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
• Vegan and vegetarian: Some types of homemade Caribbean flour, such as cassava flour, are vegan and vegetarian. This can be beneficial for people who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet.

It is important to note that the health benefits of homemade Caribbean flour can vary depending on the type of flour used and the way it is processed. It is always best to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian before making any major changes to your diet.

Here are some specific examples of the health benefits of different types of homemade Caribbean flour:

• Cassava flour: Cassava flour is a gluten-free flour that is high in fiber and resistant to starch. Resistant starch is a type of fiber not digested by the body and can help improve gut health and blood sugar control. Cassava flour is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, and manganese.
• Yuca flour: Yuca flour is another gluten-free flour that is high in fiber and resistant starch. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, and manganese. Yuca flour has a slightly nutty flavor and can be used in a variety of recipes, such as breads, tortillas, and pancakes.
• Pigeon pea flour: Pigeon pea flour is a high-protein flour that is also a good source of fiber, iron, and magnesium. It is often used in Caribbean cuisine to make flatbreads and dumplings. Pigeon pea flour has a nutty flavor and can be used in a variety of other recipes, such as pancakes, muffins, and cookies.
• Coconut flour: Coconut flour is a low-carb, high-fiber flour that is made from dried coconut meat. It is a good source of fiber, iron, and magnesium. Coconut flour has a slightly sweet flavor and can be used in a variety of recipes, such as muffins, pancakes, and breads. However, it is important to note that coconut flour absorbs a lot of liquid, so it is important to adjust the amount of liquid in recipes when using it.

If you are looking for a healthy and versatile flour option, homemade Caribbean flour is a great choice. The texture and moisture of each flour is different – adjust the quantity of water, and butter accordingly. There are many different types of homemade Caribbean flour available, so you can find one that fits your dietary needs and preferences.

The recipe for Homemade Caribbean Crackers

I enjoy making these homemade crackers or Biscuits Secs as we call them in Haiti. The recipe for the crackers is from the Fine Haitian Cuisine cookbook. I am not sure if this is the proper way to make Homemade Haitian Crackers, but they sure do taste good, and the taste is similar to the ones sold in-store but better.

The only downside to the recipe is the number of crackers it yields. I used a 2 ½-inch cookie cutter and got about 25 to 30 crackers. I think the number of crackers you get may depend on the size of your cookie cutter and the elasticity of the flour. However, these homemade crackers are great and can be stored in wax bags for freshness for about a week.

Making crackers at home is a fun and rewarding weekend project. You have control over the ingredients, shapes, and toppings, so you can create crackers that are uniquely your own. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even experiment with fillings. The possibilities are endless!

Originally published on November 30. 2013. Revised and updated.