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Rich and unique in its tastes, Jamaican cuisine will please your palate. Known for its spice, the culinary styles of Jamaica are a combination of various ethnicities. Influences on preparation methods and ingredients range from Great Britain and Africa to as far as China and East India.
Jamaican foods are usually made from fresh meats, vegetables and seasonings, making a majority of food found in Jamaica relatively healthy. Fruits and vegetables such as ackee and callalloo are indigenous to the country and make for tasty meals when prepared correctly. Mixed with saltfish, ackee becomes Jamaica's National Dish.
A popular food and staple among citizens and tourists alike is the technique of"jerk." The process of spicing and grilling meats, poultry and vegetables is called"jerk" from the Spanish word charqui - meaning"jerked or dried." Another example of this drying process is beef jerky. The process of jerking and poking meat with something sharp, then filling those holes with jerk seasoning, provided the Maroons (Jamaican slaves who escaped British rule) with a much-needed preservation technique. Jerk pork, in fact, can be traced back to Cormantee tribe's hunters in West Africa in the days before slavery brought them to the Caribbean. Today, it is a delicious treat, whether served from a roadside vendor off an oil drum grill or in a restaurant. Many say the jerk huts in Boston Beach near Portland serve up the best on the island. In Kingston, Chelsea Jerk Centre sells jerk products and is considered the core of jerk dining.
A large wave of indentured immigrants came from India to Jamaica from 1845 until the practice was stopped in 1921. These immigrants brought their culture and their culinary styles with them. One of the most well-known influences is curry. Used on chicken, goat, or seafood, curry is an exotic blend of many different spices.
For the health-conscious diner, Jamaica also offers Rastafarian I-tal cuisine. I-tal cuisine does not contain salt and follows the strict dietary guidelines of the Rastafarian sect. Various vegetable and soy dishes are prepared to delight your taste buds, and the consciousness. Look for the red, gold and green band and/or a picture of a lion to distinguish these restaurants.
If you are looking for a pick-me-up, meat patties (also made from vegetables) with coco bread are among the many light meals you can find throughout the country. Bammies,"mackerel rundown," and"stamp and go" are among the many delectable assortments of food across Jamaica.
Other sites related to Jamaica Culinary Styles:
- The international guide to Jamaican restaurants and Caribbean restaurantshttp://www.eatjamaican.com
