Last Updated on May 25, 2023 by Kimberly Crawford
If you’ve just come back from a family-friendly cruise to the Bahamas or a week in a luxury resort in Barbados, you are probably missing the island life right about now. From stunning weather to gorgeous scenery, the Caribbean makes an impact that doesn’t go away in a hurry.
One way to give yourself a little reminder of your island paradise once the vacation fun has finished is to recreate the tastes of the Caribbean at meal times. One of the best ways to try Caribbean cuisine at home is to start your day with a burst of flavor and a touch of island life by exploring the diverse and delicious breakfast options that this vibrant region has to offer.
From savory omelets to mouthwatering bakes and traditional favorites, Caribbean breakfasts are a surefire way to spice up your morning routine. So before you start packing your bags for another trip, here are some of the best savory Caribbean breakfast ideas that will awaken your taste buds and transport you to the sunny shores of the islands.
Callaloo Omelet
Callaloo is a leafy green a little like kale, spinach, or collard greens, and it makes an absolutely smashing omelet. The fresh, healthy flavors of callaloo add a unique and vibrant twist to the classic breakfast dish, and it is enjoyed throughout the Caribbean as a morning treat.
Sautéed callaloo, along with onions, tomatoes, and spices, is folded into fluffy eggs to create a satisfying and nutritious omelet, usually served with a side of fresh fruit or toasted bread for a complete Caribbean breakfast experience.
Coconut Bake
Coconut bake is a delightful and versatile Caribbean breakfast staple. Made from grated coconut, flour, and a few additional ingredients, this savory bread is typically baked until golden brown.
Its soft and flaky texture pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings, from butter and jam to saltfish or even fried plantains. Enjoy a slice of coconut bake alongside a cup of hot tea or a tropical fruit juice to kick-start your day the way you would back on your island paradise.
Johnny Cakes
Johnny cakes, also known as “journey cakes,” are small, fried bread rolls that are popular throughout the Caribbean. Incredibly simple to make, they only need flour, baking powder, salt, and water, and these golden and fluffy delights are a beloved morning treat.
Johnny cakes can be enjoyed plain or filled with savory fillings like ham, cheese, or saltfish. They make for a satisfying breakfast on their own or as a side to accompany other Caribbean dishes.
Ackee and Saltfish
Ackee and saltfish is considered the national dish of Jamaica and is a popular choice for a hearty Caribbean breakfast on the island. Ackee, a fruit that resembles scrambled eggs when cooked, is sautéed with salted codfish, onions, tomatoes, and spices. The result is a flavorful and savory dish that is often served alongside fried dumplings, boiled green bananas, or fried plantains.
Doubles
Originating from Trinidad and Tobago, doubles are a delicious street food that can also be enjoyed as a lip-smacking, spicy breakfast option. Doubles consist of two soft, fried breads called bara, filled with curried chickpeas, chutney, and various toppings such as cucumber, tamarind sauce, or hot pepper sauce.
Cornmeal Porridge
For the ultimate warm and comforting Caribbean breakfast, try a bowl of cornmeal porridge. Made from cornmeal, coconut milk, spices, and sweeteners like sugar or condensed milk, this creamy and nutritious porridge is a popular choice in many Caribbean countries. Its smooth texture and subtle sweetness make it an ideal breakfast option, especially on cooler mornings.
FAQs
What are the different types of dishes I can make?
There is a wide variety of Caribbean breakfast dishes that you can whip up, including salt fish and bakes, callaloo omelettes, fried plantains and ackee with codfish. You could also try some traditional recipes such as conkies, souse and boiled eggs.
How do I know which ingredients to use?
Depending on the dish you choose, there will be a variety of ingredients that you need to create a delicious meal. Common Caribbean breakfast ingredients include salt cod, callaloo leaves, ackee fruit, plantains, onions, tomatoes, garlic and a variety of spices. Be sure to check out our recipes section for more details on which ingredients you need.
What are some tips for making Caribbean breakfast dishes?
To make delicious Caribbean breakfast dishes at home we recommend that you get familiar with the ingredients and flavors that are typical of the region, as this will help you to create a truly authentic dish. In addition, be sure to season your dishes with herbs and spices such as thyme, scotch bonnet peppers and nutmeg for an extra-special flavor. Lastly, practice makes perfect!