Top 10 Must-Try Caribbean Dishes

Picture this: You’re lounging on a sun-kissed beach, toes in the sand, warm breeze in your hair. The waves are dancing gently, and then—bam!—the air fills with the intoxicating scent of spices, grilled meats, and tropical sweetness. Welcome to the Caribbean, where the food is as vibrant and soulful as the music and the people.

The Caribbean is more than a vacation spot—it’s a melting pot of cultures, histories, and traditions. Every island adds its own twist to the culinary symphony, from bold African influences to delicate European notes and indigenous flavors. Ready for a culinary journey that will make your taste buds sing? Let’s dive into 10 must-try Caribbean dishes that bring the islands to your plate.

1. Jerk Chicken (Jamaica)

Smoky, spicy, and legendary. Scotch bonnet, allspice, thyme, and slow-cooking magic make this a Jamaican must. If you haven’t had jerk chicken grilled over open flame, you haven’t lived.

2. Griot with Pikliz (Haiti)

This is Haiti’s unofficial national dish—and it’s bold and beautiful. Tender cubes of marinated pork are fried until crispy, then served with pikliz, a spicy, vinegary slaw that cuts through the richness like a boss.
Crispy pork + spicy crunch = flavor explosion.

3. Colombo de Poulet (Martinique & Guadeloupe)

A French Caribbean classic, this is the islands’ version of curry chicken, made with a unique spice blend called Colombo powder, plus garlic, thyme, and vegetables. Simmered slow, served over rice—it’s cozy, comforting, and subtly spicy.
It’s like a French-Indian-Caribbean love story in a pot.

4. Curried Goat (Jamaica, Trinidad, St. Lucia)

Rich, savory, and fall-off-the-bone tender, curried goat is a festive staple across many islands. The spices are deep and earthy, and the meat soaks them up like a sponge. Serve with roti or rice and peas for maximum joy.

5. Accras de Morue (Guadeloupe & Martinique)

Also called codfish fritters, these golden bites are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Made from salted cod, herbs, and spices, they’re a French Caribbean appetizer you’ll want to turn into a main meal.
Snack, starter, or beachside treat—yes to all three.

6. Riz Djon Djon (Haiti)

A black mushroom rice dish made with the famous Djon Djon mushrooms. Earthy, rich, and totally unique to Haitian cuisine, this dish is a must. Typically served with seafood or meat, it’s a showstopper at Haitian gatherings.
Pro tip: Try it with Toupur Djon Djon Powder from NouBess.com.

7. Ackee and Saltfish (Jamaica)

Savory, buttery ackee meets salted codfish for a dish that surprises in the best way. Light, flavorful, and packed with heritage, this iconic breakfast is Jamaican comfort food at its finest.

8. Bouillon (Haiti)

Think of bouillon as Haiti’s answer to hearty stew. It combines beef or other meats, starchy vegetables (yams, plantains, malanga), leafy greens, and seasonings in a thick, rich broth. Nourishing and soul-satisfying.
Perfect for Sunday dinner—or anytime your soul needs feeding.

9. Pelau (Trinidad & Tobago)

This one-pot magic includes rice, pigeon peas, meat, and spices; all caramelized in brown sugar for that signature Trini flavor. It’s hearty, a little sweet, a little savory, and packed with love.

10. Fried Plantains (Everywhere, because they’re iconic!)

Whether you like them sweet and ripe or green and crispy (hello, tostones), plantains are the ultimate side dish across the Caribbean. Every island does them a little differently—and they’re all delicious.

Honorable Mentions (Because 10 Just Isn’t Enough):

• Seafood Run Down (Jamaica) – Coconut milk + salted fish or mackerel = creamy and unforgettable.
• Callaloo (Trinidad, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Dominica) – The Caribbean’s leafy green MVP.
• Conch Creole (Guadeloupe/Bahamas) – Tender conch in a spiced tomato-based Creole sauce.
• Soup Joumou (Haiti) – A New Year’s tradition with history, heart, and flavor.
• Tassot Cabrit (Haiti) – Fried goat meat, seasoned to perfection.

How to Bring French Caribbean Dishes + Haitian Flavors Home

Want to try Haitian black rice or spicy pikliz at home?

• Visit NouBess.com for Djon Djon Mushroom Powder, spice blends, and pantry essentials.
• Browse CaribbeanGreenLiving.com for authentic recipes and cooking tips that bring the island flavor to your kitchen.

Final Thoughts: Eat Like the Islands

Caribbean food isn’t just delicious—it’s a celebration of culture, family, and heritage. Whether you’re savoring spicy griot or delicate accras, every bite carries centuries of tradition and soul.

So go ahead—try something new. Get a little messy. Spice things up. The islands are waiting.